6 Ways to Decommercialize Your Valentine’s Day
By Isabella Kelly-Goss
As Valentine’s Day quickly approaches, it’s no secret that the economy is struggling. In addition to the recession-like state of many bank accounts, rampant overconsumerism is taking its toll on our environment.
Whether you need to use thrifty spending, want to save the earth, or want something different this Valentine’s Day, here are 6 ways to de-commercialize your Valentine’s Day:
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1) DIY Your Card
While it may take more time, handmade always comes from the heart. Using supplies around your house is environmentally and economically sustainable, and can be a lot of fun!
Even if you don’t have a large collection of art supplies, a basic card can be made with paper, pens, markers, or even highlighters. A great example of a more basic card can be found here.
For the craftier Valentine, cards such as the one demonstrated here by Claire of Studio Leare is a great example of just how creative you can get.
Depending on your resources and time, 3-D cards are a fun and unique way to show someone you care. Last year, I made a card with a 3-D heart, inspired by this video. Pinterest is also a good source for ideas and step-by-step walkthroughs.
2) Ditch the Flower Vase
Okay, hear me out on this one. Everyone loves to receive flower bouquets, especially on Valentine’s Day; however, many are disappointed by the fact that they die quickly, often cause allergies, can be toxic to pets, and big, beautiful bouquets can be expensive!
My boyfriend has never gotten me real flowers on Valentine’s Day, and he says he never will. That might sound insane, but here are some ways to still show that floral appreciation without breaking the bank on wilting bouquets.
“Flours” are wonderful for the avid baker in your life. A bundle of three 2lb Golden brand flour bags will last your sweetheart a while, and should cost you only $10 from your local grocery store.
Crochet flowers will never die, and are perfect for your crafty or sentimental Valentine. Many crocheted flowers and bouquets can be found on Etsy, but also might be available in your local craft store. Bonus if the store or seller is independently owned! The price will range depending on how many you purchase, but they will outlast a real bouquet by forever.
Paper bouquets are another gift you can likely purchase through a small seller on Etsy. However, you can also make these yourself! Using sticky notes, tape, parchment paper, and ribbon, you can make a sweet bouquet from a tutorial found here. You can also use an old copy from someone’s favorite book to create a bouquet like the one from this video.
Finally, a plant you can care for and grow is always a nice option. This is a know your audience suggestion, as not everyone may have a green thumb!
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3) Skip the Mass Production
While cards are included in this, I’m talking specifically about the cliche everyone uses: a box of chocolates.
No, I’m not suggesting you become a chocolatier. And, yes, there are times when you may just want a box of chocolates. And, sure, large chain stores have plenty of them. But a few alternatives might go a long way in terms of romance and community support.
Bake something! In my opinion, boxed baking mix counts. It’s the effort that matters, and you’ll likely end up with something yummier than a childhood character-themed, wax-coated chocolate that’s surrounded by microplastics.
If using an oven is really not for you, consider melting down some chocolate in your microwave and making your own chocolate-covered strawberries or pretzels. And, if you are truly a disaster in the kitchen or maybe just don’t have the time, your local bakery is always going to have something special.
4) Shop Small!
If you’re really not the crafty type, or just need an extra something to make your Valentine’s Day special, consider small businesses. Convenience is the killer of small businesses owned by real people living in your town. It might be easy to go to a large store like Walmart and buy the card, the bouquet, and a box of chocolates, but Walmart doesn’t need your money.
Locally owned bakeries, niche stores, and florists in your neighborhood need your money. The people you run into taking a walk or grabbing a coffee, who own those stores, are the ones in your community that suffer the most when large box stores take all the customers and revenue their way.
Shopping small is not only a great way to build community ties, but also to support and boost the economy around you! If you aren’t certain what kind of small shops are around you, try contacting your local Chamber of Commerce. Chances are, they will have a website with a list of businesses that are in your area.
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5) Do an Activity
If gift-giving is not your style, but you still want to celebrate, consider quality time as a gift to each other.
Going to dinner is a classic move, and eating at a locally owned restaurant can be a great way to support your community! However, cooking together can be a challenge to test your team's working skills and be creative together.
If cooking isn’t your thing, being creative can come in other ways. Your local brewery or a local art studio may be having some form of wine and paint class for couples or even “Galentines.”
Other ideas are an escape room or even just a puzzle/board game night at home.
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6) Stay True to Yourself
Okay, this last way may be corny. But, at the end of the day, Valentine’s Day is often written off as a “commercial holiday.” While there are plenty of reasons this might be true, you can help be the reason that changes. Decommercializing a holiday that’s supposed to be about love and connection only happens when we make an effort to de-center that basic “buy, buy, buy” instinct plenty of people have when it comes to it.
Whether you mix and match these ideas or do only one of them, one step is still a step in the right direction. Remember, the most important part about Valentine’s Day is to show love and appreciation for the people you care about.
