For obvious reasons, it’s pretty typical to want to go above and beyond to make sure your loved ones have an incredible Valentine’s Day. However, this can be stressful and frustrating if you’re trying not to spend an excessive amount of money. It can be easy to overcomplicate things and forget that sometimes even the simplest gestures can have a meaningful and lasting impact.

Many women might enjoy being spoiled, but most are perfectly content just getting recognition and love, and there are so many affordable – or even free – ways to do this. Your primary objective should be to make her feel seen, heard, and valued. Think about the things she loves, hobbies she may have, or other objects or behaviors she may have expressed gratitude or desire for. Also, consider specific skills or talents you may have that you can contribute towards a unique and special gift for her.

There is nothing wrong with generic or traditional Valentine’s gifts and activities, and we’ll discuss those more later. For now, however, we’re going to focus on the more unique ones. Are you a talented chef? Perhaps you are crafty, or an artist. Do you play any instruments or sing? Don’t underestimate the power that YOU as an individual may have in helping to woo and impress your special lady. Women love seeing men embrace individuality and lean into their own skills, despite what some people might say otherwise.

Stepping out of your comfort can also be a good thing, but make sure that you aren’t so uncomfortable that it will ruin the day for you and your woman. If you need to go out on a limb to do something she’ll enjoy, let it be something that’ll you’ll enjoy doing for her! Take risks, but without being over-the-top.

If you’re still struggling to come up with ideas, here is a list of things you can do or give to show your love for her!

1. Notes! Leave a cute note (or multiple) someplace she will be sure to notice it. This is a simple, yet sweet gesture that will be sure to make her smile.
2. Serenade Her: Sing her a song! This can be serious, sensual, or goofy, and you don’t have to be talented to do this one. However, if you don’t feel comfortable singing, you could read her a poem instead!
3. Make Her a Meal: Taking the time to prepare at least one special meal for her would mean a lot. You could make her breakfast in bed, plan a fun picnic (weather permitting), or have a special private dinner at home. Jazz it up with some music and candles! If one or both of you have work, try to take a lunch break and eat with her.
4. DIY Gift: This doesn’t have to be anything crazy, even just taking the time to frame a nice photo of the two of you or creating a collage would be precious.
5. Recreate a Special Memory: Think back to a day that was very special to you. Try to set it up and give her a chance to relive it with you.
6. Flowers: While this may be a cliche, it is a tried and true method that has lasted for a reason.
7. Scavenger Hunt: This is a super fun and creative way to get you and your loved one excited for the day! It provides opportunities to recreate memories or create entirely new ones that will forever be precious to you both.
8. Make a Playlist: Music is a powerful tool for expressing your love. Take the time to create a playlist that shows your loved one how you feel about them, and then follow up with the next idea.
9. Dance: Have a dance party of two! Get moving and grooving with some sweet, tender ballads, or turn up the heat with a sensual salsa. Whatever mood you’re feeling, let your body do the talking.
10. Bake Together: Your sweet thing deserves some sweet things! Baking is a fun activity you can do together, and it will fill your home with a delicious scent even better than candles!
11. Movies: Pick up her favorite snacks, candy and beverage and have a movie night together. You can pick a movie together, or you can watch that cheesy romance movie that maaaaayyybe you normally wouldn’t want to watch.
12. Foot massage: Give her a foot rub! Let her kick back and relax.
13. Back massage: This can be a simple back rub, or you can go the extra mile and use lotions and oils.
14. SIgn Up for a Class: Is there a class or workshop she’s been wanting to try together? Take the leap and make it happen!
15. Take a Shower Together: This is quite literally, steamy.
16. Frequent and Spontaneous Kisses: This may seem basic and standard, but sometimes the little things mean the most.
17. Get Naked: Be sure to set aside some time for intimacy. Set the mood, ditch the clothes, and get physical. Make sure to take your time and make her feel special and desirable. Compliment her, take it slow, maybe try some new things to spice it up in the bedroom.
18. Cuddle After Sex: Keep the loving and tender energy flowing by being snuggly after. Even if you’re tired, this extra touch and affection will mean the world to her.

For those who are single, many of these would also be great gestures for a close female friend. You may not have a significant other this Valentine’s Day, but you still have significant people in your life. Remember the point of Valentine’s Day is to show love, and there are no rules saying that love has to be romantic.

Also, remember that while February 14th holds significance as a holiday on a calendar, your celebrations do not have to fall on or be confined to that specific day. Celebrate your love on your time, at your own pace! Make it special for YOU, not the world.