Walk into any supermarket or drug store and you can’t miss it—a bright sea of red. That’s right, Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and like many holidays during COVID, you may have to get a little creative with your plans. Maybe you’ll be spending the day solo or perhaps you’ll be celebrating with your partner at home, or with a few guy/gal pals via zoom. However you honor the day, here are a few ways to ensure it’s a sweet one.

Sweet ideas for a memorable Valentine’s Day

Walk into any supermarket or drug store and you can’t miss it—a bright sea of red. Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and like many holidays during COVID, you may have to get a little creative with your plans. Maybe you’ll be spending the day solo or perhaps you’ll be celebrating with your partner at home, or with a few guy/gal pals via zoom. However you honor the day, here are some ways to ensure it’s a sweet one.

Whip up a yummy treat

Whip up a yummy treat

Show someone—or yourself—how much they’re adored by whipping up a homemade goodie. After all, nothing says I love you more than a made-from-scratch indulgence. It goes without saying, chocolate is always on the menu for Valentine’s day, whether it’s a decadent dessert or a sweet snack. If you’re spending it distanced, send out the recipe ahead of time, make it in advance and share it virtually.

Try one of these Valentine-worthy desserts:
• Dark Chocolate Stuffed Raspberries – simple, yet fun and elegant
• Chocolate Crunch Bar – requires just two ingredients, but insanely delish
• Chocolate PB and Banana Toast – enjoy breakfast in bed with this Nutella-like spread

Impress with mouthwatering mocktails

Impress with mouthwatering mocktails

Fancy up your get-together with a fun and flavorful mocktail. It can be enjoyed with an intimate meal or while watching a romantic movie or show (my recommendations? Can’t go wrong with Casablanca, a classic. Netflix’s Bridgerton is buzz-worthy and steamy. Ted Lasso on Apple is pure happy). As for a drink suggestion, try this “Pamper Me Pamplemousse,” which features LaCroix’s Pamplemousse Sparkling Water, grapefruit juice and cucumber slices. (Did you know that pamplemousse is French for grapefruit?) It’s tart, crisp and refreshing.

Here’s how to make it: In a shaker, muddle 5 cucumber slices (½-inch thick) using a muddler or a wooden spoon. Add ¼ cup grapefruit juice and shake vigorously. Pour into a glass and top with ½ cup LaCroix Pamplemousse Sparkling Water.

Write a heartfelt note

Write a heartfelt note

Sure, you can buy a Valentine’s Day card, but it’s so special to write and receive a handwritten note on beautiful stationery. Send your note out ahead of time via snail mail to a special person—it could be a parent, grandparent, aunt, college friend, old teacher…anyone who made a difference in your life. Take a moment to recall a special memory, let them know how much they mean to you and why they matter to you. It’s all about sharing the love!

Spread kindness

Spread kindness

Go out of your way to do a random act of kindness for someone on Valentine’s Day. Maybe it’s buying a cup of coffee for the person behind you in line. Or donating (food or money) to a food pantry. If finances are tight, opt for a cost-free act: it could be as simple as holding the door for a coworker, checking in on a friend or elderly neighbor who might not be getting out as much because of the pandemic, giving up a parking spot to another car that’s waiting, writing a thank you note to your UPS, FEDEX or postal carrier. You’ll lift someone’s spirit—and in turn, you’ll give yourself an automatic mood boost. A win-win to set yourself up for a sweet V-day!

Spend time in nature

Spend time in nature

Make time to get outside, whether you plan a couple’s hike, take a bike ride with some friends, or simply go for a leisurely solo stroll around the neighborhood. Nature is healing and restorative and it can help you relax and recharge. After all, you can’t show love for someone else unless you’re feeling loved and cared for yourself. So, lace up your sneaks, take a deep breath and head out for some invigorating fresh air.