It’s no doubt that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. In fact, it’s just a couple of days from now, and I’m pretty sure that consumerism will be at its peak starting today. Retailers would be bombarding you with slogans that entice you to buy that bouquet of roses or that trip for two to Hawaii for this special day. However, if you think about it, Valentine’s Day is not just about the gifts. It’s about the person you choose to spend it with. So if you’re on the hunt for things to do this season of hearts, read on. You might just pick something up.

1. Be a chef for the evening
Plan the menu and pick up the ingredients in the grocery. When you get home, wear your apron and start whipping up a mean three course dish for you and your partner. Set up the table, light some candles (an incense wouldn’t hurt, so light one too), and set your iPod to play the most romantic songs you have in your playlist. Make the event special by dressing up and looking your best. Not only will this meal be romantic, but the effort you put into this dinner for two in your quaint little dinner table speaks volumes. Be sure to offer to clean up afterwards!

2. Give her and her pet a day of fun
Animal lovers appreciate it when their pets are included in a relationship. For V-day, you can let her know that you appreciate her pets by giving them toys or treats, or simply by taking them with you on a picnic date. It shows that you are not just putting all your focus on her but also to her furry best friends.

3. Send her passion ablaze
No, not in the bedroom. Your partner is most definitely passionate about one thing. It might be for the arts, for a non-profit that promotes her cause, or for sports. Watch a game or a play together or plan an event for the 14th for an organization he or she supports wholeheartedly. You will be thanked in more ways than one, not just in the bedroom. Trust me.

4. Go back to the future
If you’ve been spending quite a long time with your current partner, then chances are you’re in it for the long run. This activity is fun for really serious couples who’ve been through the ups and downs of life together. One of you can make a time capsule and fill it with items that mean a lot to both of you while the other can focus on creating a Pandora’s box and fill it with items that signify your dreams together in the future. It could contain mock keys to a house or a car, baby clothes, a dog collar, anything. It will be fun to look at your achievements from these two boxes and figure out that you’ve made memories together.

5. Room service!
Everybody likes being treated like royalty. On the 14th, why not do this for your partner? Prepare heavy breakfast and bring it to bed so that you can lazily have your meal. At the end of the day, turn your bedroom into a mini-spa and give each other massages. Make sure to set the mood with candles, incense, and of course, music. This will pretty much be appreciated with open arms since Valentine’s Day falls on a working day.

6. Go postal
With the popularity of e-mails and online chat, the postal services worldwide have been reduced to carrying mundane items such as bills and notices. One thing that will give your other half a smile is receiving a love letter in the mail. It will be a breath of fresh air amidst all subscription magazines, bills, and notices she regularly receives from the mailman.

Valentine’s Day only comes once a year, and that is why it is meant to be special. It is there to remind us that despite the mundane, stupid, and incredibly awful decisions we have, there is always one person who will love us and choose to be with us. In addition, the event doesn’t have to be centered on expensive gifts or getaways. The real essence of Valentine’s Day is spending it with the one you love and appreciating the emotional bond you share.