In little less than two weeks, the Valentine’s Day will hit our calendars and with that a love-themed spirit will be carried through our streets and social media feeds.
I am very well aware that not every country celebrates the Valentine’s Day but with the increasing globalisation, it has become more and more common to do a little something for our loved ones on February 14.
To be on theme, but also to give you some time to prepare, I put together some practical etiquette tips for when you’re spending time with your valentine.
Before we start, I would like to point out that the Valentine’s Day is no longer a celebration between lovers only, yet it can have as many shapes and forms as your heart pleases. So whether you decide to spend your Valentine’s Day with a friend, family member or a colleague, these etiquette tips are universal for all:
1. PLAN AHEAD 🗓️
As I mentioned above, the Valentine’s Day has become more and more popular and with that rises the demand. If you wish to spend this day in a nice restaurant or event, start your preparations well in advance. Book your spot and secure all reservations beforehand to avoid frustrations due to booked-out venues.
2. PUNCTUALITY MATTERS ⏰
No matter whether you are romantically involved with your valentine or not, they deserve to be respected at all costs. So make sure to arrive on time for your Valentine's Day plans. Being punctual not only shows respect for the other person's schedule but also sets a positive tone for the occasion.
3. BASIC DINING MANNERS 🍴
If your celebration involves a meal, brush up on your dining etiquette. Simple gestures like waiting for everyone to be served before starting to eat, using utensils correctly, and maintaining engaging conversation contribute to a pleasant dining experience.
If you’re unsure of the correct rules, I invite you to scroll through my Instagram where you will find a lot of valuable tips.
4. THOUGHTFUL GIFTS 🎁
Depending on the relation you have with your valentine, you might consider bringing a little something. The nature of the gift depends on the level of intimacy you share with your companion. For a romantic partner, you can definitely choose a highly personal gift. For a colleague, I would suggest a ''neutral'' gift such a bottle of high-quality wine or a small basket of gourmet delicacies.
My Personal Tip: Handmade gifts, crafted with care, carry an extra layer of sentimentality and show the effort you've put into making the day memorable.
Remember, the essence of Valentine's Day lies in expressing love and appreciation. By incorporating these etiquette tips, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making the day special for everyone involved.
Wishing you a heartwarming and joyous Valentine's Day!
Yours sincerely,
Katarina
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