The season of love is here yet again. And regardless of your relationship status: situationship, entanglement, engaged or married, chances are, your mind is pondering about how to make your special person feel loved.
Now here’s the thing, showing love doesn’t mean going all out and breaking a bank. In fact , if anything, tiny thoughtful gestures have proven to go a long way when it comes to conquering hearts. Besides, they are fun, unique and of course cost effective.
Here’s a list of some of the best ways you can make this Valentine’s special without selling a kidney.
Re-create your first date.
Take a trip down memory lane by going back to where it all began—your very first date. Walk through the same doors, sit in the same spot, order the same food, or make fun of how nervous you were; just anything to relive the moment that kicked it off. If distance makes that impossible, the phone is there to help. Hit them up and recreate the moment in your own way. Maybe it was a cozy café, a movie night, or a random adventure. Whatever it was, bring it back to life and remind each other why it all started in the first place.
Create your own movie night.
Going to the cinema might sound basic, but let’s be real—dinner and a movie is a classic for a reason. This time however, you won’t be heading to century cinemax. But, creating a cozy, bougie movie night in the comfort of your home. Netflix rings a bell? To spice things up, cook something simple yet fancy (because effort is attractive). And of course, if you want to set the mood just right, a good bottle of wine never hurts. Nothing says romance like an intimate setup
Naturesque picnic
I’ll be honest—I’m not the biggest fan of views. But since Rwanda is the land of a thousand hills, I can’t help but dream about a night picnic in Kigali. Wherever you are, find the perfect hilltop spot, spread out a cozy blanket, and pour yourself a cup of Inyange juice or Gorilla coffee. With every sip, pause to take in the breathtaking city lights, cool night breeze, and the soothing quiet.
Become a tourist in your own town
Kigali is packed with amazing places to explore, and chances are, there are a few spots you’ve always wanted to visit but never spared time to. Well, now here’s your chance! It could be a hidden café, a park with the best sunset views, or a neighborhood you’ve always been curious about, you decide. As you drive there, play your favorite music, take random turns, and see where the road takes you. Also, take tons of pictures. Most couples only do this on vacation or their wedding day, but why not make it a tradition? Afterall a picture is worth a thousand words.
DIY Romantic Dinner: Cook Together & Enjoy the Moment
There’s something extra special about cooking dinner together—it’s fun, and way more intimate than just going out to eat. Plus, you get to bond over good food and create sweet memories in your own kitchen. Here’s an example of a simple yet impressive menu to wow your partner:
Appetizer: Avocado & Tomato Bruschetta
Crispy toasted bread topped with juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious!
Main Course: Creamy Garlic Butter Steak with Mashed Potatoes
A perfectly juicy steak covered in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, served with smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal but made with love at home.
Dessert: Chocolate Mug Cake-The easiest, most satisfying dessert!
Just mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and oil in a mug, pop it in the microwave for a minute, and boom—a warm, gooey chocolate cake ready to enjoy.
Now, set the table with candles, play some soft music, and enjoy your homemade romantic dinner. The best part? You made it together.
Love Notes—Always and Always!
No matter how you decide to celebrate, never forget to write a heartfelt note to your partner. Remember, the smallest gestures mean the most. Just put into words what you love about them, why they make you smile, the little things they do that melt your heart, and why you fell for them in the first place.
Sure, you probably say these things all the time, but this time, write it down. Trust me, it’ll hit them different—simple, sweet, and straight from the heart.
