Yes, we’re talking Valentine’s Day, but we think this day of love shouldn’t be reserved just for couples. The 14th of February is really a day dedicated to celebrating all kinds of love – from besties through to lovers – and aside from gifts, there are so many ways to celebrate. So, ditch that solo tub of ice cream and embrace a new lover’s day tradition. A date night – that isn’t restricted to couples We all love getting dressed up for a fancy night out, so make a booking for that special restaurant or cocktail bar you’ve been meaning to try and grab your besties (or lover) for a night of fun. Dining out on V-Day is an easy tradition to keep and can evolve as your friendship group expands or as you all get coupled up. Remember to book in advance – it can be a busy night! Host your very own dinner party* While it does require some planning, this is a cool tradition to rotate amongst friends or family for years to come. As a host with the most, it’s your job to create the ambience, work on your menu and set the dress code. Make it extra special with a three-course meal (you can always order in thanks to so many top-notch restaurants adding take out options off the back of last year’s COVID restrictions) or pop on your chef’s hat and get to work in the kitchen. Just add some V-Day themed touches like candles, champagne, decadent chocolates or long stem roses and you’re set to entertain. Plan a V-Day staycation in your city Last year wasn’t a great one for travel, and with so many things booked up over the past Christmas break, Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to plan that trip. Go regional or interstate*, take a buddy or lover and hit the road. Exploring our backyard minus hordes of international tourists is a rare treat, so make the most of it! Have a good old-fashioned movie night Book your besties and pick your favourite movie line up for a chilled night in, complete with snacks for you and your mates to binge on together. If you want to take your hosting game up a notch, a grazing board and a selection of dessert teas from T2 are great accompaniments to a movie night in this lover’s day. Soak up the sunshine Make the most of our long hot summer days and gather friends, family or lovers for a mental health day at the beach. After all, it’s not just a day of love; the 14th of February marks the middle of the month, meaning we officially only have two weeks of summer left. Indulge yourself Mark this day of love with a spot of self-indulgence. Either solo or with friends, kick the day off with a yoga class followed by a self-centred spot of shopping – after all, you know you best! Organise to meet friends or family for lunch* and round off your afternoon with a decadent spa session or massage. Blissfully float through your evening and give thanks to the day of love. ‘Be my valentine’ gift exchange It’s Secret Santa meets Valentine’s Day with a gift exchange perfect for the single ladies. You can either buy your secret Valentine a mystery gift – flowers, chocolates or a bottle of wine always go down a treat – or skip the gifts and take your Valentine out for a not-so-secret brunch, lunch or dinner. If you’ve got a good crew of single friends this is a sure-fire way to avoid that V-Day slump. Swipe with friends For the singles out there, get together with friends* and have a bit of fun hooking your phone up to a TV to broadcast your Tinder or Grindr page. Take turns swiping on each other’s profiles and who knows, maybe you’ll find your future Valentine’s Day date? Well, that wraps up our 8 favourite ways to spend the day of love. You’ll find half the fun is in the planning, so get together with your friends, lover or family before the 14th of February and get organising! From all of us at First National Real Estate, Happy Valentine’s Day (or day of love as we like to call it). #bekind #lovetoall *Remember to comply with the COVID-19 rules and regulations in your state or territory to stay safe and stop the spread this V-Day. DISCLAIMER The following advice is of a general nature only and intended as a broad guide. The advice should not be regarded as legal, financial or real estate advice. You should make your own inquiries and obtain independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any legal, financial or real estate decisions.