The Dolly Parton Valentine's Day Solution
There’s nothing more terrifying than your first Valentine’s Day with someone you care about.
And it doesn’t matter how fresh the relationship is, either. The same problem persists whether you’re on your third date or the thirtieth. And what problem is that, you ask?
It’s really hard to know exactly where your date falls on the “Valentine’s Day Romance Spectrum” without actually experiencing a Valentine’s Day date with them first. On one end are the curmudgeons - the people that think that Valentine’s Day was invented as a capitalistic play by greeting card companies. On the other end of the spectrum are people who aren’t happy unless they are wined and dined with never-ending cards and flowers and chocolate.
The Feast of Saint Valentine was actually established by Pope Gelasius I way back in 496 AD to celebrate Saint Valentine of Rome. And while the holiday has become a significant cultural, religious, and commercial celebration of romance and love, I want you to focus on one important thing. Valentine’s Day started as a FEAST!
"My weaknesses have always been food and men — in that order." — Dolly Parton
With Dolly Parton as our Valentine’s Day spirit animal, I suggest that you skip waiting for a table at a restaurant and get to know your date over a cozy, home-cooked meal because everyone loves a good feast.
But before I go any further, a disclaimer. It is important to have discussions about if someone feels comfortable coming to your place or not. If both parties are comfortable, I suggest asking him or her to come over for dinner this Valentine’s Day, because cooking for someone is a gesture that shows intention and effort. Which, let’s be honest, is rare in this day and age of dating apps.
Not sure what to cook? Check out this article with 8 different Valentine's Day dinner ideas by Bon Appétit.
If I’ve had the pleasure of chatting with you, I might have shared that I am a bit of a wine connoisseur. By that I mean, I can find some great affordable wines. For this meal, I’d recommend a bottle of Boen Pinot Noir. It is reasonably priced ($21.99ish) but drinks like a much more expensive Belle Glos!
What’s a celebration without a little bubbly? Mumm Napa Brut Prestige is my favorite, budget-friendly champagne. Pair with some fresh strawberries for a delicious, easy dessert.
Remember - the key to a low-stress Valentine’s Day is showing someone that you appreciate them. And there’s nothing better than a home-cooked meal to do just that.
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