Tips to ensuring you enjoy Valentine’s Day, whether you have a boo or not
If you have ever wondered why Valentine’s Day is so important, I don’t blame you.
I have asked myself the same question, and I still do not have an answer. Considering the amount of related advertising I have seen in the last few weeks, people with questions are definitely in the minority. From gift packages to flowers, concerts to weekend getaways, catered food and drinks, it is obvious that many people cash out during the season.
Gentlemen are compelled to prove their love by giving presents while ladies are eager to show off their gifts to their friends: the proof of their lover’s undying love. Everywhere, red and white, the traditional colours of the day, are in full display. Restaurants are booked in advance, and last-minute walk-ins are likely to be turned back as all tables have been fully booked. Traffic is guaranteed because everyone is out at the same time and most likely headed in the same general direction. It is just one day of activities, but some look forward to it like it’s the most important proof of their partner’s love.
Some people swear that Valentine’s Day means nothing to them but if their significant other (to be understood as their boyfriend/ husband/ zaddy/ sugar daddy) does not get them a gift or deliver an out-of-this-world experience, the world as they know it would probably end. If you’re a guy, and you assume that Val’s Day is just like any other day? You are on your own o. It doesn’t matter if your partner has been keeping malice with you since crossover service, a truce must be declared on February 14th. If not, that fight will continue till the next cross over service!
Do you have a boo? You do? Perfect. By now, you have most likely made plans. If you haven’t, you can take some of the advice I am about to give. Valentine’s day is all about how you make your partner feel. You must curate an experience that makes them believe they are your only love interest. Yes, I know some people would probably have two or three people they have been stringing along. You brought this on yourself, and you will be stuck with being in three places at the same time or admitting yourself in a hospital far from town. Sorry, but I can’t help you.
The type of experience you deliver would be based on the size of your pocket or maybe the depth of your love. Don’t stretch beyond your capacity but if you want to form big boy/ girl, you can take a loan. Just think of the garri you will be drinking while repaying the loan.
Guys, for some reason, flowers, cakes, and teddy bears are the basic fixtures of a lady’s Valentine’s Day presents. In addition, you could decide to buy jewelry, clothes, and accessories as well. Nothing is off-limits: if she likes it, you can get it for her if you have the capacity or else, remember you will remain in debt for a while.
Wait, are you wondering why there must be presents when it’s not her birthday? Don’t ask me silly questions, just ask Cupid.
A night out is also another important consideration, and you must plan this properly. You could decide to go out for drinks or dinner, perhaps a couple’s event? Do you want to stay indoors? Better a night at home where either of you does the cooking or you order from a caterer. Do something different this time around; that’s what I have been told.
Ladies, did you buy boxers and hankies? Please return them immediately and don’t shame your gender. No man is above oud perfumes, perfume, accessories, leather goods, and electronic gadgets. Surprise him as you also surprise yourself. At least when you tell your friends what you got for your man, you’ll stand out as someone who understands how to deliver a wow experience. They will not admit it, but you will be the envy of your friends for doing the unusual. Trust me.
You don’t have a boo, but you are eyeing someone? Is Val’s Day a good time to shoot your shot? Hmmm, the jury is still out on this, but who says you can’t try? The worst that would happen is you get your gifts thrown in your face. For all you know, they may not have a partner and would at least appreciate your gift or invitation to drinks or dinner. Who knows, it could be the start of something great. Do they have a partner? That means you either didn’t do your research properly or you are preparing for a hostile takeover. If the former, carry on as though it was a gift between friends, who says friends can’t exchange gifts on Valentine’s Day? If the latter, you must ensure that you top their current partner’s valentine experience to get them to notice the missiles you have shot.
So what kind of gift do you get someone you have been eyeing? Whatever you do would be dependent on your relationship with them, the amount of information you have about their relationship status, your overall intentions, and the opportunity that presents itself. You can give a simple gift that carries a lot of weight or go overboard and create a mind-blowing experience. You could even decide not to present your gift on Valentine’s Day, maybe post- Valentine’s would be more impactful? I don’t know for sure, but you could also ask Cupid.
You don’t have a boo? There’s absolutely nothing to worry about. Whatever you decide is ok. You could order gifts for yourself and post on social media: all your friends would “ooh” and “aah” wondering who your secret admirer is. You could go out with your friends and meet other boo-less people; you’d be surprised at who’s out there waiting for love to happen. You could also decide to stay at home and watch Valentine’s Day themed movies while you eat leftover jollof rice and drink your favourite beverage. Just be sure that you are happy with your decision.
On a serious note, many people are just going through the motions because society has encouraged them to perform acts of love when their hearts are far from love. Let this Valentine’s Day be an opportunity for us to appraise our close relationships. Are we faithful? Are we true? Can we be depended on? Are we our brother’s keeper?
As we reflect on these questions, may we all seek to become better and more loving people. Our world needs more kind people. Let us stand to be counted amongst them: this is the way I see things today.