5 Ways to Treat Yourself Solo This Valentine’s Day

By Patricia Garcia

Old-fashioned cultural norms might have you believe that being single isn’t the most coveted relationship status on Valentine’s Day. Well, we’re here to tell you that there’s no wrong way to celebrate February 14, whether that’s with a date, with platonic friends, or totally solo. Being unattached on the one day of the year that celebrates all things romance has the potential to be a blessing in disguise!

For starters, you don’t have to scramble to find a reservation at a restaurant that will probably make you pay for a wildly overpriced prix fixe dinner anyway. Nor do you have to come up with a clever-yet-cute gift for your significant other. Instead, you can actually do whatever you want — and what’s better than spoiling yourself once in a while?

Here are five ideas on how to spend Valentine’s Day with the ultimate date — yourself.

Take a page from “Clueless” icon Cher Horowitz and send yourself some flowers.

While it’s always lovely to get a surprise bouquet of flowers delivered from a friend or suitor, there’s nothing wrong with arranging one for yourself. Instead of being let down by a last-minute, sub-par arrangement (remember that one time a date got you dyed-blue deli flowers?), pick some of your favorite blooms that you know will look beautiful in your home. If you want to go the extra mile, write yourself a little note of encouragement. You are, after all, killing it so far this year! 

Treat yourself to a bath done right.

When was the last time you had a totally indulgent bath? With being on your own on Valentine’s Day, you can go ahead and prepare yourself a relaxing and much-deserved soak. Light some scented candles, crack open a book, and spend an irrational amount of time soaking in the tub. As for what to toss in there, that’s your call. Go fizzy with a bath bomb or luxe with some eucalyptus- or lavender-scented bath salts.If you’re feeling really crazy, throw in a face mask while you’re at it. Your skin will thank you.

Educate yourself at a wine tasting class.

Sure, there will be plenty of couples attending a wine tasting class on Valentine’s Day. And who can blame them? It’s a great idea for a date! But who cares if you’re going on your own? Not only do you get to sample different kinds of wine, you also get to learn a great deal in the meantime. Knowing the difference between Chianti and Cabernet is sure to impress whoever you match with next, whether a Bumble BFF or potential partner.

Throw a dinner party at home.

Okay, so this isn’t exactly spending Valentine’s Day by yourself, but if you’re single on February 14 that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with some friends. Show off your cooking skills (or at least pick up something from Whole Foods’ prepared section) by making your friends a Valentine’s feast. If you’re feeling extra sweet, offer your guests something special and put out a spread solely made up of different kinds of desserts.

Binge watch whatever your heart desires.

One of the most tumultuous issues for modern day couples is Netflix cheating — you know, when one person views episodes of a show they’re both watching without waiting for the other. This Valentine’s Day you don’t have to worry about hiding your Recently Viewed queue. Watch whatever you want — you’re completely free! Want to watch “Mean Girls” for the 534th time? Go ahead, you won’t judge yourself! Feel like watching an entire season of “Grace and Frankie” in one sitting? Well why not?! You do you. And enjoy every second of it.