I have spent many Valentine’s Days at home alone over the years. Perhaps this year will be easier knowing that everyone is at home instead of out. Valentine’s Day isn’t a big deal in Paris, it is much more an American holiday. Over the years, the holiday has gained more momentum as the French idealize the American culture. Single, taken, or a family with kids with no sitter, I hope these ideas will inspire you to create a day around love and the city of Paris. Plus, I am sharing my perfect Valentine’s Day at home.
If you have a family, you can include the kids on this one. Fondue night is always a hit! If the kids aren’t into the cheese, skip straight to the chocolate dessert. Marshmallows and fresh fruit dipped in warm chocolate. Cut up your kid’s favorite fruits.
Take a Cooking Class online. There are some really fun online cooking classes. Sur La Table has a good collection I recommend check your local city as well for restaurants doing cooking classes for Valentine’s Day dinner.
I am doing this French Tea Time class on February 13. I am also doing this one on February 15th with Dorie Greenspan.
Valentine’s Day is a huge business for restaurants and not being able to dine in is hurting your local neighborhood spots. Consider ordering in this Valentine’s Day and making the special day at home. They are most likely doing a special menu.
Some local favorites (that aren’t necessarily French) in Chicago include Mon Ami Gabi, Le Colonial, Gibson’s, RL Chicago, and Ema.
If you are solo, order out from one of your favorite restaurants and plate it on your favorite fancy dish. Make the whole night an experience.
For kids/families Hugo or Ratatouille is one of my niece and nephew’s favorites.
For movies that will transport you to Paris, you can check out this post. Amazon and Disney + have a feature where you can watch a movie together. I did this over Christmas with Bobby and Emma.
Turn on this Playlist and enjoy the sounds of Louis Armstrong, Sinatra, Norah Jones, and Melody Gardot
This always changes my mood. You don’t have to worry about freezing cold temperatures and wearing a big puffy coat and boots in the snow. You can wear the dress you haven’t put on in a long time with red lipstick. (no mask at home) Frenchify your Lingerie, check this post for ideas.
If you have been home for almost a year like me, eating in a different location in the house can change things up a bit! Try a picnic spread on the floor. Add string lights to any room for an instant change.
A Collection of Appetizers as a meal.
Cheese/Wine/Baguette is always my favorite. If you are on a budget, you can grab all these things at Trader Joe’s.
Change your dishes. If you haven’t already, break out the good china! I bought dishes from Madame de la Maison and Shop Capucine
Drinking French by David Lebovitz will inspire you to create a fun cocktail. Perhaps a French 75 or a Boulevardier.
Splurge on a fresh bouquet of flowers for the home. Buy them at Trader Joe’s or right after Valentine’s Day for a more budget-friendly option. They always raise the price on the holiday.
There is nothing better than self-love. Indulge in a spa day. Light your favorite candle, run a bath, or do a beauty mask. If you don’t have a bath, I always love a good salt scrub in the shower. Paint your nails at home. You have the time to let them dry.
Enjoy coffee and a croissant in bed or binge-watch Lupin or Call My Agent.
Make brioche French toast.
This is something the kids can be involved in too. You can do this virtually with family or friends over zoom. Tackle a new recipe you wanted to try or a French classic. My top choice would be fresh madeleines out of the oven. You can add fresh fruit or chocolate chips.
Since it is Sunday, start the day off with a coffee and croissant and Links I Love. Play with Henri, eat breakfast and work out. Read a little on the couch with Henri by my feet. Watch a movie with truffle popcorn. Nap. Sushi or a cheese plate and a glass of wine and call it a night for dinner. A beautiful face mask and off to bed early.
P.S. Still looking for a gift? Check out this Gift Guide for ideas.
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