A CandleLit Dinner for One

Kiera Munslow

Valentine’s Day is all well and good for those of us with romantic partners, but it can feel lonely and possibly nauseating to those of us who don’t. ‘Candle-lit dinner for one’ doesn’t exactly have the same ring to it. Nevertheless, Valentine’s has no restrictions, so go for it! I imagine it’s much more fun not having to deal with small talk for an hour!

Why not take yourself on a date to the zoo or the cinema or even laser-tag if that’s what you like; who said dates are for two people only? If you don’t want to do that, bring a friend and make it Galentine’s or Palentine’s. There are endless ways to celebrate without a significant other. So, here is a list of some ways to enjoy February 14th:

1. Enjoy a self-care day or take a trip to the spa with a friend

2. Stay up all night reading or watching your favourite series

3. Make music playlists with your friend and exchange them

4. Bake Valentine’s cupcakes or biscuits / have a bake-off with your friends

5. Make a list of all the things you hate about Valentine’s (for cathartic reasons…)

6. Write letters to long-distance friends and family

7. Go outdoors and enjoy the crisp winter air

8. Take up a new hobby which, yeah, you’ll probably never do again, but what’s the harm in trying?

9. Declutter your wardrobe

10. Add clutter to your wardrobe!

Now, of course you don’t have to do any of this. However, I hope this inspires anyone who dreads Valentine’s to take it as a day of meraki (doing something with soul, creativity and love.) And, if you ever feel alone on this day, remember that Valentine’s Day is a day of love, and loving yourself comes first. Always.