Have you ever heard of love languages? In case you haven’t, I highly recommend checking it out. It will help you understand yourself and your partner so much better. I took the quiz recently and basically confirmed what I already knew, my love language is the Acts of Service, followed by Words of Affirmation and Quality Time. Basically, all ways that do not require any physical product per se.
While I do enjoy gifts, my husband and I stopped buying presents for ourselves after we got married. I’m not sure exactly how or why but it was just a natural progression for us. Since we have joint finances we could each technically see what was bought (if we wanted to) so that may have played a role. But I’m perfectly content receiving “gifts” in other ways as noted by my love language.
With that said, in the spirit of Valentine’s Day I thought I’d offer up some easy (and free!) ideas for gifts based on your love language profile.
Words of Affirmation
This one is obviously pretty straightforward. Just share verbally or written form with your partner. Though words of affirmation is more associated with verbal communication, I think displaying your love in written form is just as impactful.
Valentine’s Day gift idea – a love letter.
Why not go a little retro and write your loved one a love letter. If a letter seems like too big of an undertaking even a sweet note will do. Put post-it notes throughout the home with reasons why you love them. I can’t remember the last time my husband or I wrote a note to one another and I might just take my own advice and do this! ha!
Gifts
Some people respond more to gifts, a little something that tells them their partner was thinking of them when they made the purchase.
Valentine’s Day gift idea – scrapbook/photobook of your favorite shared memories together
Think of what your partner loves and enjoys and try to get them something along that vein. Though Valentine’s Day is most famous for the dozen red roses and chocolates, a more unique gift will make a lasting impression. A scrapbook or photobook is a free or low-cost way to show them you love them and cherish the life you’ve built together.
Acts of Service
This one is my favorite of all. Simply do something for your partner you know they would appreciate and enjoy.
Valentine’s Day gift idea – cook a meal, clean the house, fold and put away laundry or tackle a to-do list
I know these sound so un-sexy but trust me when I say this, if your partner prefers Acts of Service as their love language they will go over the moon for any of these practical gifts. I don’t think anything would make me more happy than to come home to a clean home and folded laundry (I can’t be the only one right!? lol)
Quality Time
This one is easy enough. Simply make time to spend with one another. No distractions, no agenda, just simply be.
Valentine’s Day gift idea- Ditch your cellphones and visit a museum or even just a simple walk around your neighborhood.
The idea here is to give your partner that undivided attention. We are all so guilty of checking in our phones countless times a day. By leaving it behind, you’re committing to fully investing yourself in this time with your partner and making it a really special event.
Physical Touch
Well this one clearly needs no introduction. 😉
Valentine’s Day gift idea – Have a makeout session
If your partner is someone who craves physical touch but you’re a little shy (especially in public) then even small, simple things like reaching for their hand while out in public or playing with her feet during dinner will be so appreciated by them. A teenage-like makeout session will bring the thrill and fun back into your love life.
Bottom photo by Jason+Anna Photography
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