Everyone’s guide to the perfect Valentine’s Day

Everyones+guide+to+the+perfect+Valentines+Day

Couples, singles and friends alike can celebrate the perfect Valentine’s Day. Saturday, Feb. 14 offers an exciting opportunity to craft adorable gifts, eat delicious food and spend time with the people you love. This year, there’s something for everyone.

Plan the perfect date…

Chocolate fondue: Whether you want to dress up and splurge on The Melting Pot or take the cozy, homemade route, chocolate fondue is the tastiest option this Valentine’s Day. The Melting Pot offers a festive atmosphere and tables decked with roses. In fact, it has been named one of OpenTable’s 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the U.S. Be sure to make your reservations as soon as possible, or stock up on chocolate and strawberries. You won’t want to miss this sweet way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Day in the city: For the more adventurous couple, a day of exploring in the city would be the perfect fit. Between ice skating, hot cocoa and scenic sights, you’re bound to have a casual yet memorable day.

Be the chef: If you’re looking to celebrate the day of love without spending a ton of money, cooking a meal with your significant other is the way to go. Pull out your recipe books and throw together a dinner for two. Whether you decide on comfort food or an exotic dish, this is an easy and fun way to stir up some fun.

Fun for singles…

Buy yourself a present: Instead of feeling down about not having someone to share gifts with, buy one for yourself! There’s no shame in treating yourself to chocolate-covered strawberries, that shirt you’ve been eying forever or tickets to see your favorite band.

Do something you enjoy: Whether it’s shooting hoops, going to a hot yoga class, baking or taking a bubble bath, it is important to find time for yourself. Valentine’s Day couldn’t be a better day to do so.

Netflix marathon & candy binge: Thankfully, there are enough chick flicks on Netflix to cover us all this Valentine’s Day. But what’s a movie marathon without too much candy? Stock up on all your favorite sweets, and revel in the sappiness of “The Notebook” and “Crazy, Stupid, Love.”

For a night with friends…

Host a “Secret Cupid” gift exchange: Gift exchanges are especially popular during the holiday season. Put your own spin on the ever-so-classic “Secret Santa” and organize a Valentine’s Day gift exchange with friends.

Go out for dessert: Who needs dates when you have cake? Indulge in some of Naperville’s best bakeries such as Le Chocolat du Bouchard. They offer a wide variety of options, from a warm cup of cocoa to a decadent, three-layer chocolate cake. Everything on the menu is sure to be a hit amongst you and your friends.

Pinterest night: While there is an endless supply of adorable ideas on Pinterest, finding time to actually recreate them is rare. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to sit back, relax and get crafty with your friends. Some of my favorite craft ideas include confetti-painted heart mugs and flower-stamped paintings.