It's that time of year again — love is in the air, affection is in our hearts, and chocolate is in our stomachs.
But okay, leaving aside the sweets for a moment, let's talk about showing our love. Aside from the texts, hugs, meaningful glances, and memes we share throughout the year, Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to brighten your loved one's day with a special card. Whether you are mailing it to a faraway love or handing it to them in person, they will definitely appreciate the thoughtful gesture of your love expressed as a physical card.
Stuck for ideas on a message to write to your valentine? Here are some tips to get you started.
• Match the tone of the front of the card.
The card design sets the mood, and your message inside should match that mood. If you've picked out a card with a pun on the front, maybe add a few puns of your own inside. Card with a raunchy jokes? Perfect lead-up to more raunchy humor, or perhaps a suggestive message. Or if you've decided to go with a card that has elegant florals, flourishes, or ribbons, perhaps a more formal and sincere message inside. In any case, the general rule of thumb is to choose a card that matches either your recipient's personality or your relationship with them, and then craft a note that goes along with the feel and tone of the card design.
• Tell them what you love about them.
What is your favorite thing about your loved one? Maybe it's their sense of humor, their kindness and compassion, their mental and emotional strength, or the fact that they're always there for you. Or maybe, they just have a really, really good butt. Whatever it is that triggers your warm and fuzzy feelings about your valentine—let them know! Or if you love literally everything about them, feel free to make it as long a list as you want. Just remember to write small so you can fit in everything you want to say!
• Remind them of a memory you made together.
"Remember that time we..." is a great opening line. Is there a moment that comes instantly to mind whenever you think of your loved one? Maybe it's the day you first met, when you fell in love at first sight. Maybe it's a particularly memorable event, birthday, or anniversary. Or maybe it's a special trip you went on together. Even tiny, everyday moment can be a touching reminder that you are always noticing and remembering the little things that they do and say.
• Show your gratitude.
Everyone loves knowing their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Let them know something they have done or are constantly doing that you are grateful for. Let them know how much you appreciate their support and love. Or simply just express how thankful you are that this person is in your life.
• Look to the future.
Let them know how your love grows! Use words like "always" and "forever," so they know you'll be there for them not just this Valentine's Day, but the next, and the next, for years to come. If there's something coming up in their future that you're looking forward to, feel free to include in your message. For example, "Can't wait for your graduation," or, "looking forward to your next visit," or even, "I want to spend the rest of my life with you." Write down whatever your hopes and wishes are for your love and the relationship you share.
• Add a quote.
Okay, you've tried everything, but it's just not coming to you. That's okay! Luckily, love is timeless, and over time, there have been billions of wise, tender, humorous, or clever quotes made about love. You can do a simple search and browse through some love themed quotes, then choose one that most symbolizes your feelings toward your recipient. Or if you've got a shared favorite movie, TV show, or song, use a quote from it for a personal sentiment that they will love.
• Stick with the classics.
Your message doesn't have to be long or complicated—sometimes the simplest notes are the best. A "be mine, valentine," "happy Valentine's Day," or "I love you" gets the point across clearly and succinctly. Sometimes it's enough just to receive a card and know someone is thinking of you, regardless of the words inside.
No matter what message you come up with, the important thing is to go with your gut and get your feelings out there! Even if your words aren't the most graceful in the world, your valentine will still appreciate and feel touched by your love and thoughtfulness. So if you have been waiting for the right moment to pick out and send your love a Valentine's Day card—NOW is that moment! Go forth, and spread your love in the world!