Valentine's Day is just around the corner (literally, it's this Wednesday) and for some reason this holiday carries a lot of anxiety for a lot of people. What do I get my boyfriend/girlfriend as a gift? What should I wear on my date? Where should we go? What if I don't have anyone to spend Valentine's Day with?? Yes, when it comes down to it, Valentine's Day is about LOVE. But, there are different kinds of love, and sharing the love with those you care about is what really matters on this day of worshiping Cupid. So if you are looking for something to give your S.O. on Wednesday, somewhere to go with your best pal, or even something to do for yourself to show yourself just how much you care, look no further!

WITH YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER (GIFTS)

Spending Valentine's Day with someone you love (or hope to love) can put a significant amount of pressure on us. Maybe you've just started dating and don't want to come off too strong, or maybe you've been together for almost 30 years and need to find creative ways to show each other that the love is still going strong. Whatever stage you are at in your relationship, getting the other person something meaningful is always a nice way to show you are thinking about them and appreciate the time they spend with you. The key word here is meaningful. If they've been eyeing a piece of jewelry or a nice watch, and that item is within your budget, GO FOR IT. But, if you want to get them something a little more budget friendly, don't feel bad. As cliché as it may sound, it really is the thought that counts. Some of the most well-received gifts that I have ever given were things that I put a lot of thought into, and knew would be special for that specific person. Find some of my ideas for cute, thoughtful, and AFFORDABLE gifts above!

WITH YOUR FAM (DECOR)

Honestly, I think spending time with your family on V-Day is underrated, and more people should do it. Two years ago, when Adrian and I first started dating, I was in Hawaii with my mum and he was at home with his family. Before I left on my trip, he and I spent a day together in honour of Valentine's Day, but on the 14th it was all about family. My mum took me out for a fabulous dinner, and we spent most of the day at the beach. Adrian's mum put together a gorgeous themed dinner (as per usual) and made sure that both of her children felt loved and supported. And that's what this day is really about in the end: making sure that your loved ones really know how much you care! So, if you are looking for something to do with your family on Wednesday, try making a reservation for your fave restaurant, or work as a team to put together a fun pink-and-red themed dinner at home! If you need some hints, take a look at some of the things that inspire me above!

WITH YOUR BFF (ACTIVITIES)

Sometimes your significant other is your bestie. It could be your roommate, your co-worker, or your for-life partner in crime. Whoever you consider your best friend (or friends) to be, spend some time together and have a good time just appreciating how awesome it is to have them in your life. If your bff is a girl, you could go to a nail salon and get mani/pedis or even have a DIY beauty night from the comfort of your own home! If your bff is a guy, you could have a games night full of your favourite board games or themed trivia questions! In Toronto, The AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario) is FREE for students on Wednesdays between 6pm and 8:30pm, and there are tons of other attractions in the city that offer discounted prices for students. Click here for a list of other student related offers in T.O., or check out my ideas above!

WITH YOUR SELF (BINGE-WATCHES)

As I said before, Valentine's Day is all about love, and while you're busy showing all the people in your life how much you love them, don't forget to show yourself some love too! My favourite way to relax and feel good about myself is binge-watching some good TV/movies. Who says you need to watch sappy rom-coms about the guy finally getting the girl, or the awful breakup that resulted in sadness? Try watching something funny like 21 Jump Street or Orange is the New Black; or something for the #GIRLBOSS like.. well Girlboss or either of the Kill Bill films. There are tons of options when it comes to finding something to watch this Valentine's Day, so grab some popcorn and a glass of wine, and settle into that cozy blanket + comfy couch combo.

What are you doing for Valentine's Day? Adrian and I agreed to do something simple this year. Any ideas of where we should go for dinner? Let me know in the comments!