Alternative Valentine’s Day!

Valentine's Day : Sweet Hearts

Well I double dare you! by m01229 (CC BY 2.0)

Wow! January came and went! I can’t believe it’s already February. It went by so quickly it wasn’t even hard to stick to all my resolutions. I hope everyone else is keeping up with theirs. Speaking of resolutions, I’m excited for Valentine’s Day. It’s the perfect occasion to go green. There are plenty of alternatives to the traditional celebration. Let’s get moving and take a look at some of my favorite ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day the green way!

Valentine's Day Hearts
Hearts by edenpictures (CC BY 2.0)

Alternative Valentine’s Day: Cards

Valentine’s Day cards are a huge part of the holiday.  Often times they can be very wasteful since they usually tend to be bought at stores in large bulk and then discarded after the fact. One of my favorite alternatives to cards that are mass produced is a plantable card. These cards are made out of seed paper and are 100% compostable. Your valentine can plant them and watch them grow as your love grows. Another great green alternative for Valentine’s Day is making your own cards. How could someone discard it after you poured your heart into it?

Alternative Valentine’s Day: Gifts

Valentine's Day Chocolate
Chocolate by Moyan_Brenn (CC BY 2.0)

This year instead of going for the red, go for the green! Give them something that says you love them berry much. Try treats that are organic or locally grown. Chocolate is good, but it’s even better when it’s organic and fair trade. Give them a homemade gift, and show your valentine that they’re one of a kind by adding your own personal touch. Don’t stop there, go green this Valentine’s Day by using eco-friendly wrapping paper, bags, and boxes.

 Alternative Valentine’s Day: Date Ideas

Bike Ride
Bike Ride by Purple Fun (CC -BY)

There are several ways people celebrate Valentine’s Day. I love the idea of going out and exploring your city. Los Angeles is a great place to find lots to do. There’s always something going on. This year instead of going to a restaurant, why not go for a bike ride or visit a museum? LA offers plenty of opportunities to go on a moonlight hike. Stay green and save green. Bring the restaurant home. Enjoy the solitude of each other’s company and cook something together. Worried about going green because you’ll miss out on the finer things in life? Fear not, there are tons of high-class restaurants that offer vegan and vegetarian options and  farm-to-table dining.

What’s your favorite way to celebrate Valentine’s Day?  Tell me how you’ll be swooning with your sweetheart in the comments section below!