Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, and millions of cards, flowers, and candies will be exchanged between friends and loved ones. If you’re worried about following protocol for a holiday with romantic associations, don’t despair! At the core, Valentine’s Day etiquette isn’t that different from everyday etiquette. We still seek to form and strengthen positive relationships, make others feel valued, and create a comfortable, safe atmosphere. Follow these quick tips for a day that’s memorable for all the right reasons.
1. Ask around
If you’re not sure the other employees are passing out Valentine’s Day cards to each other, pluck up the courage to ask! Everyone enjoys giving and getting a little something, no matter what day it is, but ask around to see if you’d be the only one showing up with cards and candy.
2. If you give to one, give to all
Whether at the office or the classroom, you may want to give a card to that one special someone. But instead of putting that person on the spot, include everyone else and give a gift they all can partake in. This goes for your children’s classmates as well!
People don’t want to feel left out when others are picking and choosing the “special someone”, so make sure everyone feels included and loved on Valentine’s Day. If you are feeling bold, just write that special one an extra line or two!
3. It’s not personal, it’s business (but it’s still sweet)
Unless you’re in a romantic relationship with the person, make sure your gifts are not too personal. Here are two helpful guidelines to help you decide if a gift is too personal.
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If you think the gift might be too personal, it is.
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Don’t give any gifts which will touch the other person’s body (all clothes, perfume, cologne, etc).
However, a gift can still be sweet! Find out the favorite candies of people in the office, that way you give something thoughtful, but still stays within proper boundaries.
4. Hand write your notes
In our increasingly digital world, the power of a handwritten note is special reminder of how much we care. Take the extra time and be an etiquette superstar with a fun card and handwritten thanks. For the children, it can be a fun and educational time with parents. As you’re writing, ask your child to describe the boy or girl they are writing, and some things he or she has noticed this year!
5. Follow up
Many people give and receive gifts throughout the year, but not nearly enough of us return than you cards and notes. You don’t need to over-complicate the process either, simply use this guideline!
Dear (Name),
Thank you so much for the (gift) and (gift) on Valentine’s Day! Your thoughtfulness on this busy day was very much appreciated. I’m grateful to spend (life, work, school, etc) with you, and look forward to more good times!
Your Friend,
(Name)
How to Make Valentine’s Day Special
People we love are used to getting some nice things on Valentine’s, from candy and flowers to cards and dinner. But what about people who may not always feel so appreciated, or don’t have anyone around to care for them? The biggest impact you may have on Valentine’s Day may be with people you don’t even know! To do something special this day, here are ten suggestions and ideas to brighten someone’s day who may need it the most.
- Leave a bunch of cards at the Veteran’s Hospital.
- Take a vase of flowers to the nearby nursing home.
- Bring a bag of coffee or box of tea to your teachers.
- Schedule dinner with a friend who’s feeling lonely.
- Host a dinner party for your single friends.
- Take your kids to the children’s hospital and hand out cards.
- Personal coupon cards for your family (hugs, coffee break, taking out the trash).
- Cards or candy to the fire and police departments.
- A gift card for the school crossing guard.
- A phone call or card to an old mentor.
I hope these tips have helped take the worry out of Valentine’s Day for you. If you haven’t heard the story of how Valentine’s Day came to be, or want learn more about everything else that occurs with the holiday, the History Channel has a great list of videos and resources. It’s a wonderful holiday with an amazing story, and I hope we can all be a part of sharing kindness and gratitude with each other this year.
Happy Valentine’s Day,
Patricia
P.S. – need last minute cards or gifts? My friends at Hallmark have you covered! See if there’s a store nearby you, and hurry!
