Romance. I am a sucker for it. The old fashioned romance. Gentlemen and ladies. Mystery, tension, longing gazes. The timid shy looks, the goofy smiles, the awkward conversations as you try to impress the other only to stumble over your words because just being near them makes you tongue tied. Your heart beats faster, your face gets hot just looking at them. Cards. Flowers. Stuffed animals. Proposals. Sigh. It’s a beautiful thing. If you are an introvert, you know how painful it is just talking to someone in general. Now put the whole “I like you … A LOT” with it and it’s the formula for a mini or in most cases major meltdown. So how can you tell someone you like them without coming apart at the seams and looking like a total weirdo? Here a some suggestions:
The best time of year to do this would be, of course, Valentine’s Day. The one time of year when “love” is in the air everywhere you look. How does this help you tell the one you are smitten with how you feel? Advertisements try to help us with that pushing all things sweet, shiny, and perfumed to perfection. Gifts are a nice sentiment but there is so much out there and if you haven’t even admitted to the person you have a crush on that you like them in that way. Many gifts just wouldn’t be appropriate. First step, take a deep breath. Calm those jittery nerves! Valentine’s doesn’t have to be about expensive over the top gifts. Or announcing your love from a mountain top.
Writing has always been my strong suit. Talking, not so much. So the first thing I think of when I want someone to know just how much I like them is a personal note. Nothing too mushy, but from the heart. Maybe a cute little poem. This is to help break the ice if you are wanting to get to know a person better, or let someone know how special you think they are and that you are glad they are in your life. There are cute Valentine’s cards that are blank inside for your own comments, or you can make your own with colorful paper and a printer. Personal is always better in my book!
Speaking of personal, homemade gifts may seem lame to some, but to me, handmade items are worth more than any store bought item any day. Someone took their time to personally craft something just for me. I appreciate any gift that is given to me, but there is something about handmade that is special. So instead of going out and spending money on a stuffed animal that will end up in a donation box, how about trying one of these 5 homemade gift ideas along with your personal note instead?
- A painted rock with a little note or poem. Painted rocks are cute, personal, and can be used in gardens or planters or as a paperweight on a desk.
- Make dinner. Doesn’t have to be a sappy romantic one, especially if you aren’t quite to that level yet, but the effort will mean a lot. Spaghetti with garlic toast is easy, delicious and affordable! Or maybe a family favorite recipe you know how to cook. Your Valentine will be impressed.
- Gift basket. Especially if you know the person, you can make a personalized gift basket just for them. Kudos will be given to you for knowing their favorite items! Snack basket, spa basket (bath bombs, oh yes!), game day (if they are a sports fan) or any number of things! Doesn’t have to be in a basket either! Use a watering can, a paint can, a box…let your imagination soar!
- Framed picture. If you are already friends with the person you have a crush on, and if you have a picture that means a lot, get it copied and frame it. Put it in a shadow box with flowers, and other decorative items to make it unique.
- Not crafty? You can still make a handmade gift per se. Check out craft fairs, or stores like Etsy. You can still find a unique gift and support small businesses. T-shirts, funny socks, key chains, blankets, candles and yes, even jewelry. You can find a price range that fits your budget too.
When you really like someone, it’s worth the risk of letting them know. Happy Valentine’s Day!!!
