How to Survive this Valentine’s Day

by All Maxim Hygiene

vdogMany people hate Valentine’s Day. Some claim it’s not really a holiday (though it’s on all official Gregorian calendars) and some wish it wasn’t.

It finds some of us girls on cavorting around with flutterbies in our tummies, while others of us create bonfires of our exes’ stuff.

Jezebel recently wrote that our vaginas are only worth $218, on average. The “theory” is that men only spend money on V-Day to get into our pants. And although the V in V-Day doesn’t stand for Vagina, I’m pretty sure the word Valentine is synonymous with Vagina in men’s heads around the world.

So, if you’re single this V-Day, think of creating a Valentine’s Day Survival Kit or Event. Invite over your girlfriends, make sure you have a non-scratched DVD of Magic Mike, this list of “best” cocktail recipes & your laptop to check out Lulu, an app that lets women rate the men they’re friends with or have dated in the past.

If you’re in a relationship, you’ve probably found yourself too close to the date, without any crazy romantic gestures in mind or cash to spare. But, the greatest thing about Valentine’s Day, is that your Valentine will love you no matter what. Right?

So here are a few quick and easy ideas for gifts to give your Valentine.

1. A Keepsake Box

One of the greatest things a couple has is their memories. Take a shoe box, lunchbox, cardboard box or even a fish bowl and let your creative side loose. Glitter, glass paint, ticket stubs, ties… anything is a go! Just make sure you fill the box too! You can even camouflage the box by using his favorite superhero comics to mask the top!

2. A (DIY) Terrarium

Succulents are great plants for men – they require the least amount of care. Terrariums are easy to maintain, easily made, can be as unique as you want, and are totally bro-friendly décor. You can even stick in action figures and make it a scene from one of their beloved video games.

3. A Valentine Lightbulb

This requires a bit more materials and time, but if you can make it, this heart-filament lightbulb can turn any room into a romantic setting. It can also be transformed into a paperweight, the centerpiece of a mobile, or a piece in your terrarium! Write a note about “feeding the plants love” and he’ll accept it.

4. A Valentine’s Day Themed Coupon Book

There are several of these available at bookstores, but we think making unique coupons that reflect what your guy or girl loves is best. Coupon ideas? Massages, home cooked meals, bartender-for-a-night, breakfast in bed, any movie of their choice, trip to their mother’s etc!

If you don’t have time or you aren’t creative or just can’t be bothered—check out Society6, my favorite site of all time – you can order pillow cases to iPhone cases, art prints and laptop skins! All of them are copies of unique artwork made by artists around the world. I’ve personally bought 3 iPhone cases for various friends and a crazy cool art print.

Or go to Etsy. If you don’t know what your man loves, you’re sure to find at least 5 things he’ll love after he gets them.

For other DIY ideas, check out this great slideshow by Better Homes & Gardens or spend the day together and make some of these crafts while watching your favorite Rom-Coms.

And while you flip channels, drink champagne, or go on the I-thought-you-would-love-paintballing trip, don’t forget to Tweet us your VDay gift ideas so we can spread the word!