I have a question for you. Should I wish you happy Valentine’s Day, or is it just pointless? it has become the norm for many people and brands to wish everyone a happy one, as if it was their birthday or Christmas. So, I wonder where the limits are.

Hearts and balloons are decorating many of London’s shops and restaurants, and many brands are also referring to it online. It may be overwhelming for a variety of reasons, and it can also be fun for everyone. Love is not always of a romantic nature.

So, is there any room for feeling great, simply because it’s Saturday? The answer is yes! Take a look at some tips to have a great St Valentine’s day whether you’re single or not, including a fun game. Any tips or fun, practical ideas anyone?

Look beyond St Valentine’s

Not all love is of a romantic nature and red is not always a sign of romance. Look beyond St Valentine’s. In London, some charities are also using red as part of their worthy campaigns.

• Comic Relief uses red for their branding and for the t-shirts which certain chain is selling. They’re designed by top fashion people. I don’t actually know all of those names, but I will be buying one myself.
• As part of the heart month campaign, the British Heart Foundation rolled out their Wear it, beat it day, where supporters used red clothes, etc. Check how Camden Market was dressed in red too. Don’t forget to donate.

Is it really about romantic love these days?

I am not so sure about that anymore. I keep hearing people, single or not, saying that they’ll spend the day with family and/ or friends. In fact, St Valentine’s Day might have transformed itself into an appreciation day for family and friends, judging by the results of this recent survey.

I still have to see the insights from retailers to have some more info. I also wonder how dating sites and apps will be doing by the end of this weekend.

Treat yourself and your loved ones.

Fancy a heart-shaped chocolate or a weekend break now? Then, go for it! You deserve it.

I am a firm believer that it is ourselves we need to look after in the first place. Otherwise it might be a bit hard to be with others, let alone have a bit of romance.

OK, maybe many London restaurants are fully booked, so what? Dine in. Supermarkets have great offers you can take advantage of.

Get together with friends

No need for an anti-Valentine’s party at all, just yourselves, drinks and internet connection to play the game below.

On a hot date tonight?

Then, I think science might help. Some of the tricks are not specifically for romance, such as sleep well or excercise regularly. I find others surprising, such as wear red or do baby talking. Anyway, hope it helps!

Thanks for reading my post and enjoy St Valentine’s Day!

A Londoner from Afar

Pic credits
MisterKrisp.com
Buzzfeed.com
Ipadairwallpapers.com