All you need is love … and brunch

I’m just going to come right out and say it – I am not a huge fan of Valentine’s Day. I celebrate the love I have for my partner, my friends and my family more than just one day a year, and I really don’t think that it needs to be commercialised with a push to spend big money on diamonds, flowers and chocolates (not that I’m opposed to any of those things!). That being said, I like that there is a reminder to celebrate love – not just your love for others, but also for yourself.

Instead of (or in addition to, if that’s your jam) celebrating Valentine’s Day with chocolate and expensive gifts, do things a little bit differently. Here are a few of my suggestions on great ways to celebrate love (any day of the year).

BRUNCH

I think brunch is an appropriate way to celebrate all manner of things. After all, brunch is the most delicious meal of the day and sharing it with your favourite people can only make it better! Whether you’re dining with friends, your family or your beloved, kick start your Valentine’s Day with something that tastes amazing!

My favourite brunch spots are Al’s Deli in Auckland’s CBD; Circus Circus in Mt Eden and The Zookeeper’s Son in Royal Oak. Make sure you check out Zomato for other great suggestions to find a new fave brunch spot near you (and follow me for more recommendations!)

PAMPERING

Whether you’re giving the gift of pampering or treating yourself you can’t go past a good Flossie-ing (I’m making it a verb, okay?). Book in a facial or enjoy a massage (or even take turns massaging each other at home with this honey toffee massage bar from Lush, saucy!), or maybe get a group of friends together for a nail party!

My favourite pampering spots are Aroha Healing for divine massages, Ashleigh Scott Facialist for facials that will leave your skin glowing and Hello Tanya for super fun nail parties – all of these lovely treats (and more!) can be booked using Flossie Concierge.

SUN AND SAND

You don’t need to splash out on a trip overseas with your partner, we have some stunning beaches here in New Zealand. Make the most of summer by grabbing a picnic and hitting the waves with your nearest and dearest for a fun day of sun, sand and sea. Sweet.

My favourite beaches are St Heliers Bay in East Auckland, Matakatia Bay in Whangaparoa, Wainui Beach in Gisborne and Lake Taupo (yes, the whole lake. It’s too awesome to just pick one part).

TREAT YOURSELF

I can’t even think that without thinking of Parks & Rec – such a great show! Anyway – there are loads of lovely ways to #treatyoself at home – take a luxurious bath, slather your fave body butter all over your skin, cook a delicious meal … bonus points if you do all three. Even more bonus points if you’re doing it with a partner!

My favourite body treats are bath bombs from Sorbet, body butter from The Body Shop and fresh face masks from Lush (especially the cupcake one!)

Cute cupcake images drawn by Angie Makes – sadly they are not edible.

FLOWERS

Buying a dozen red roses can make a serious dent in your wallet (especially at this time of year, where a dozen roses can set you back $183.20 through Interflora), and they only last a limited time. Instead, try potting up some cacti or succulents (or a cool carnivorous plant!), making a terrarium or even buying your Valentine a potted plant. Forget a dozen roses, I’d love a rose bush to plant in the garden!

If you do want to put together a special bouquet for your beloved (or yourself) my favourite florists are The Botanist in Auckland CBD and Florienne in Takapuna.

Do you have any Valentine’s Day plans? How do you celebrate the love in your life?