A version of this article was previously published on The Wasted Blog. It was originally published on Peaceful Dumpling January 31, 2017.
Just because we don’t want to feed into the massive consumerism that goes on around Valentine’s Day, it doesn’t mean that we have to deprive ourselves of the treats that come with this romantic day. As a matter of fact, here are some tips on how to make Valentine’s Day truly special while doing something good for the environment. Most of these fun V-Day ideas can be tailored to singles, too!
1. Name a star after your Valentine.
Naming a star might be cheesy, but that’s what Valentine’s Day is all about, right?! I would suggest going full out and naming a binary star, which is made up of two stars orbiting around each other. Cheesy and romantic at the same time!
2. Go see a play/movie.
….but bring your own snacks!
I love movie nights! I am a sucker for romcoms and I love good snacks. If you’re looking for a delicious movie snack, check out my recipe for homemade popcorn.
If you prefer to stay home, use a streaming site like Netflix as opposed to buying a DVD, so much easier, cheaper, and less wasteful.
Because looking at all the romcom options can be quite an overwhelming task, I have created a little list of the romcoms I love and have watched more than once ?
3. Give organic sulfite-free wine/ Cook dinner.
For Valentine’s Day dinner, I’d choose something light yet fancy. How about this Vegan Wild Rice Risotto Primavera?
For your Valentine’s Day drink, I can highly recommend the delicious Grapefruit Delight, which not only serves you about the right amount of alcohol for the night but saves you tons and tons of calories by only using natural ingredients and even adds a few health benefits in the mix. Since the drink is half water half alcohol, you won’t even risk a hangover in the morning, which, should you decide to stay over, ensures you a clear head for a lovely breakfast date ?
Another option is a nice bottle of sulfite-free organic wine – sound less romantic but quite tasty! For that, you can go to a winery and have them fill up your bottle on the spot–most organic wineries will be happy to do that for you.
4. Give sustainable lingerie.
Giving lingerie for Valentine’s Day is very special and intimate. You can make it even more special by making sure that you’re purchasing gorgeous lingerie that is non-toxic and organic lingerie. My 3 great go-to addresses for those organic treasures are Azura Bay, Only Hearts, and Anek.
5. Write a love letter or (e-) card.
If you want to go out of your way, try making your own paper to write your love letter on, or use it to make a very unique and personal Valentine’s Day Card. If you are looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day e-card, Paperless post provides you with an amazing selection of e-cards, that not only look special and unique but there is also an option to personalize the cards and put
it in cute e-packaging. That way you can express your feelings in the most sustainable way while still going the traditional romantic route.
6. Buy ethical and eco-friendly jewelry.
I love the idea of buying second-hand jewelry, having it polished, cleaned and personalized with his/her initials.
Alternatively, you can opt for buying jewelry from sustainable jewelers. I am particularly fond of the designs by Hanna Naomi, an amazingly talented designer, based in Portland Oregon, whose designs stand out by focusing on minimalist and classy shapes. Barbara Michelle Jacobs is also a wonderful choice for eco-friendly jewelry. All of the brand’s jewelry is crafted with 100% recycled precious metals.
Lovely diamond dangle earrings.
7. Make your own Valentine’s Day dates.
A zero-waste and healthy alternative to all the harmful sweets out there, but guaranteed equally delicious. Find the recipe here.
8. Give time.
Sign the two of you up for a class that you’ve always wanted to take. There is nothing more romantic than giving a gift that says, “I want to spend even more time with you.”
Here are some ideas:
Learn an instrument
Take a dance class
Learn a new language together
Go to an organic wine tasting
Get a gym membership and take classes together
Take a class at university
Sign up for a yoga class
Go on a hiking trip
9. Stay somewhere new for the night.
Whether this is a sustainable hotel, a friend’s apartment, or renting an Airbnb for the night, staying somewhere else can spice things up a bit and is a fun little experience that doesn’t have to cost a lot.
10. Speaking of staying over: Stay Safe.
I am all for having fun….but responsibly! There is an amazing brand called Sustain, who made it their mission to produce Nitrosamine-free condoms that are made out of fair trade rubber, and they even use recycled packaging.
I know, I know this is not a zero-waste option, but it is the best option out there when it comes to protecting yourself from STD’s, and when it comes to my health, I’d rather be safe than sorry!
How do you like to personalize Valentine’s Day?
Related: 15 Vegan-Friendly Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas
8 Fun (Non-Cheesy) Valentine’s Day Ideas
Top 10 Healthy Vegan Desserts for Valentine’s Day
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Photo: Pexels, Peaceful Dumpling
