Valentine’s Day & Homemade Cards

Valentine’s Day: a day some adore and others abhor. Oh, and a holiday that sends Hallmark cheering for joy. Some couples use Valentine’s Day to express their love, whether it be through gifts or a romantic dinner. For them, celebrating Valentine’s Day may include exchanging chocolates and a night out on the town. For others, Valentine’s Day may evoke mixed feelings due to increasing commercialization and the need to show off; however, the night is not exclusive to couples or expensive gifts.

Valentine’s Day can be a great way for people of all ages to show appreciation for loved ones, like friends and family members. In recent times, the day before Valentine’s Day has even been termed “Galentine’s Day” in celebration of girl friends. For children, the holiday often means school parties and heart-shaped cookies. Some of my fondest memories from elementary school include those of making card boxes out of shoe or cereal boxes and exchanging cards with my peers. Cards may have included candy, stickers, or temporary tattoos. Yet, my favorite cards were those made out of construction paper, adorned in Elmer’s glue, glitter, and stickers. To this day, I find handmade cards a great to show your appreciation for someone without breaking the bank.

While the thought of making a card may seem juvenile or daunting, it can be a fun, easy way to show someone you care. If you don’t want to spend the money or can’t find a store bought card to your liking, handmade cards are perfect for sending the ideal message to your friend, family member, or significant other. Taking a little time can result in a heartfelt gesture that demonstrates your love and care. Do you want something funny? Add a meme or a pun. Would you rather have a card a little more meaningful? Write a poem or a message. Adding in a cheesy note or other form of personalization can make the card extra special, and if you can’t come up with anything, Pinterest and Google have plenty of examples for some inspiration. With handmade cards, you are free to do whatever pleases you. This year, I added some puns on the back of my cards relating to my friends’ favorite candies (with some attached, of course). Below are the fronts of some of my cards.  However you celebrated Valentine’s Day – or perhaps you didn’t – I hope you had a great one (and that you enjoy the upcoming discounted candy)!