10 Last Minute Valentines Date Ideas

Valentine's Day isn't that big of a deal in our household because to be honest, Mark is never here to celebrate it. Since he's here this year I thought that I should make us a fancy four course dinner but then I thought, who am I kidding.... it's on a school night lol. So we decided to order in instead, that way we get to do something a little different but we don't have to brave a restaurant on the busiest night of the year. Also, I can wear my PJs and no one will judge me lol. So if you're like us, and don't want to fight the craziness of the crowds, then here are some ideas for you...

1. Dessert to go

If you want to have something a little special but don't want to eat dinner at a restaurant, order dessert to go! It's an easy way to change up your normal Valentine's Day but won't break the bank. Plus if you have kiddos, this is something special you can do with them as well and they will think it's "fancy" and fun! Check out the unique dessert spots in your area and see if they will let you order a few hours in advance.

2. Cook dinner together

Who doesn't love spending time in the kitchen with your spouse? I do! Mark and I used to cook together our first summer living together and it was awesome! We really need to start doing that again. Anyways, plan to tackle a new dish together and share the responsibilities of prep. Turn on some romantic music, crack open a bottle of wine, and enjoy some technology free time. If all else fails, make a pizza!

3. Breakfast date

Maybe night time is crazy for you so get up extra early and have a breakfast or coffee date. You don't have to leave your house, just set the alarm 30 minutes early, brew a fresh pot of coffee, and spend the morning chatting. I am hoping we can squeeze in some time in the morning too. :)

4. Floor Picnic

If making a whole meal is overwhelming and takes too much prep, then pick up some of your favorite cheese, crackers, meat, and a bottle of wine. Take out a big blanket, some fluffy pillows, and have a floor picnic in your living room. Make sure to turn off the TV and just spend your time together. That's what this is all about.... spending time TOGETHER :) You can even order a pizza and have a floor picnic too. It's just about getting out of your regular day-to-day activities and doing something just slightly different.

5. Plan a scavenger hunt

This is something that can be done on the cheap and set up in your own home. I love the ideas of doing this with kiddos too because everyone loves a fun game that will lead you to a present. If you are doing this for a significant other, you can leave clues throughout their day and end with a fun date night or just lead them to you. Pinterest has great ideas if you need a starting place and so does Dating Divas, if you check out their website. Plus you don't have to do this tomorrow, set it up for this weekend!

6. Fondue Night

Another awesome way to spend dinner is to make a big pot of fondue. It's such a fun way to eat and once again, out of your norm. We did this a few years ago... actually it was the only other time we spent Valentine's Day together in 8 years lol. Sara if you're reading this... remember that night at our house with you and Dave?? You can do a cheese course, meat course, and dessert... or just go for the cheese, because duh, it's the best.

7. Movie Night

This is pretty basic but sometimes you just need to stop all the busyness of your week, make a big bowl of popcorn, snuggle up on the couch, and watch a favorite movie. You can surprise your spouse by choosing their favorite movie or a movie that carries meaning for your relationship. This is one of our favorite things to do and it's just a nice way to tune out all the other interruptions, because let's be real, the work week can be so busy. You can even make a floor fort which is a FAVE in the Bradford house. :) Consider buying movie theater size candy and making other yummy snacks. Who needs dinner when you have buttery popcorn??

8. Beer or Wine Tasting

Trying out a new brewery or winery is something that Mark and I both love to do but why not setup your own tasting at home? Choose some different wines or beer, brown bag them so you hide the labels, and pour some tasters. You might find your new fave beverage!

9. Exchange Cards

One of my favorite things to do is to send out and receive cards. I LOVE getting handwritten cards because there is just more thought put into them. Maybe you don't want to exchange gifts with your spouse, then exchange handwritten cards over a glass of wine or even a cup of coffee in the morning. The gesture doesn't have to be grand, it's just important that you tell your spouse how much you care about them.... all the time, not just Valentine's Day haha.

10. Take a Sunset Walk

I am a HUGE fan of taking walks by the beach, especially at sunset. There's something so relaxing and beautiful about watching the sun go down over the water. If you don't have a waterfront near you, that's okay... just take a stroll around the neighborhood or even to some place new. Being outside in nature will help you feel more connected than just hanging at your house. Plus it's free! :)

My Forever Valentine

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!! I am missing my valentine today but we are going to celebrate when he's back in town.

I am so incredibly grateful for my sweet husband. He goes above and beyond to make me feel loved every single day. He makes me laugh and not take life too seriously and let's be honest, we could all do with some laughter and fun! :) He pushes me to be the best version of myself and always believes that I can and will succeed. I still get butterflies when I see him and swear that I'm even more in love with him now than I was on our wedding day. He's the best :) Okay, gush session over!!

I hope you all have a wonderful time celebrating with your loved ones, whether that's with a significant other or girlfriends. :)

Valentine's Date Night Outfit Inspiration

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Valentine's day is tomorrow! Can you believe it? I feel like it snuck up on me this year and to be honest, Mark is never here on Valentine's day so we rarely celebrate it anyways lol. I still think it's fun to put together a new outfit and go out with girlfriends, which is exactly what I plan on doing. Plus since I'm a teacher, we always celebrate at school. Who doesn't love cute little character valentines from kids??

As far as clothes go, I love the traditional pinks and reds for Valentine's day but in a more edgy way. I'm definitely not a pink girly-girl :) Adding in ripped jeans, peep-toe booties, and a leather jacket takes this date night look up a notch.

The first outfit idea is this off the shoulder sweater dress from Tobi.com. I like that it shows a little bit of your shoulders but it doesn't look like everything is hanging out lol. The dress was a little short on me so I paired it with the skinny jeans or even leather leggings would be super cute too. It's also really cozy and can be pulled up on the top, so it doesn't expose the shoulders. These leather leggings would also look great with the dress.

The next option is something a little more casual. The light pink color of the long-sleeved top is girly, fun, and an easy go-to. The peep-toe booties and earrings would jazz it up but would still be appropriate for a less fancy night out. I have the gray version of this shirt and I LOVE how comfortable it is to wear. The asymmetric top also adds a bit of interest. This necklace would also look super cute, if you wanted to ditch the earrings.

The last option is this fun peplum top from Nordstrom. I love the ruffles on the sleeves and the  overall flattering style. I have this top in black and wore it on my birthday. It is super comfortable but can be easily dressed up with fun earrings or a necklace. It is also the perfect length with the leather jacket and hits at a very flattering spot. Win win :)

What are you wearing for your Valentine's date night??

Valentine's Day Outfit Inspiration

I am majorly crushing on this dress. I love the bright red color and the girly lace detail. This would be  great for Valentine's day or just any romantic date night. I love the under $50 price tag too! This navy dress is also a current fave. 

These simple black heels go with everything and I love the ankle strap. I have similar heels and they are so comfy. 

If you live in a cold climate this wool wrap coat would look adorable. This leather jacket would be perfect if you live somewhere warmer. I like the idea of the leather jacket adding a little edginess to this otherwise girly outfit. 

These hexagon earrings from the Loft are super simple but pretty. I also like this stacked cuff to add a little something to the dress. 

I LOVE this clutch. The zipper and fold over detail are so cute. I have a similar one and use it all the time. 

No matter what you have planned for Valentine's day a cute outfit always makes it that much better :) 

5 Ways to Have the Best Valentine's Day Ever

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Valentine's day is one of those holidays that can either be super corny and overrated or a fun way to celebrate those you love. I am in the "celebrating ones you love" camp. I think it can be totally fun, if you set yourself up for a great day. Here are my 5 tips for making this the best Valentine's Day ever.

1. Set Expectations.

Whether you are married or in a new relationship our spouses are not mind-readers. I know I am guilty of thinking Mark knows what I want or what I am expecting. In the past, we've had some miscommunications where I ended up being upset because things didn't turn out how I wanted. I am learning that if I want something to go a specific way, I need to clearly communicate those facts.
For example: If I want to do something on Valentine's day I need to say, "I really want to do (blank) on Valentine's day and I would like you to plan it." Also, saying something like "I got your Valentine gift already is a great way to a. remind them Valentine's day is coming and b. let them know that exchanging gifts is something you want to do. The days of thinking he will read my mind are long gone lol. :)

2. Plan an activity.

I'm a huge fan of doing activities instead of just giving gifts. If you've read my gift guide: for him  you will see that I suggested tickets to a concert or sporting event. I think these are the best gifts because you are doing something together. Valentine's day is no different for me. I'm not saying I wouldn't be happy with the Kate Spade wallet from my Valentine's day gift guide (because I would totally love it) but making an incredible memory will last a lot longer. Plus most men seem to have a bad taste in their mouth when it comes to this sappy holiday. Change their opinion of the day by planning something totally awesome!

3. Skip the dinner craziness.

Going out to eat on Valentine's day is always risky. You have to make reservations way in advance or risk waiting a lifetime to get a table. Also, most restaurants have prix fixe menus... those are annoying. Skip the dinner craziness and stay home. Make dinner together using the Newlywed cookbook (even if you've been married for years) or try a new recipe. Being in the kitchen together with a glass of wine can be super romantic. Mark and I made fondue one year with our friends Sara and Dave. It was low-key and fun... my perfect kind of night.

4. Have a day date.

Pick something you know your significant other loves to do and plan a day date around it. Mark loves to golf and I sorta like it. I'm good for about the first 11-13 holes and then I'm over it. It just takes so long and my back starts killing me. I know, I know... I'm a whiner. Anyways, since I know he loves golf so much I planned a whole day around it for some Valentine's fun. I won't put all the details on here just in case Mark is reading :) If a whole round of golf isn't your thing maybe just go hit balls or go to a shooting range with your guy... whatever he is into! Also, this doesn't have to take place on Valentine's day. Pick another day and start with breakfast at their favorite place and let the day unfold from there.

5. Stay in.

Going along with skipping the dinner craziness, just skip the craziness of the day altogether and stay in. Mark and I had a lazy day last Sunday and it was SO NICE to be in comfy clothes, watching movies, and eating comfort food. Every so often we make a "floor fort" which is basically tons of comfy blankets and pillows on the floor. We watch movies all day and just relax together. You could take this up a notch by buying various cheeses, salami, crackers, and fresh fruit. Eat them on a blanket by the fireplace and watch your favorite movie. After all, the day is just about being together... it doesn't matter if that's in your pjs or in fancy clothes :)