Because no one needs to feel left out — celebrate self-love this Valentine’s Day

Traditionally, Valentine’s Day is the holiday of love and romance — think cute hearts, exquisite flowers, red everywhere. But what is usually seen as a day of celebration for some can often be a lonely day for singles. When you’re single on Valentine’s Day, it can feel like everyone around you is in a relationship.

No matter whether you’re recovering from a break-up or loss, still searching for “the one”, or simply aren’t interested in romantic relationships, we believe that you don’t have to be left out this Valentine’s Day.

For that reason, we’ve compiled some of our favourite ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day when you’re single. From spending quality time with friends to indulging in your favourite chocolate, there are plenty of ways to share in the love this February the 14th.

Embrace being single on Valentine’s Day

Did you know that an estimated 35% of the UK adult population are single? You may be single, but you’re not alone.

Be kind to yourself

It may seem obvious, but even something as simple as setting aside the day to be kind to yourself can be a way of celebrating! There are hundreds of little things you can do to treat yourself when you’re single on Valentine’s Day. From taking a relaxing bubble bath to indulging in your favourite hobby, self-care is the name of the game.

Rather than thinking about romance, why not focus on enjoying what you already have? Make a note of what you’ve accomplished — these past couple of years haven’t been easy on a lot of people, so it’s important to realise how far you’ve come.

Take yourself on a date

Is there a film out that you really want to see, but have no one to go with? See it anyway! Or you could book a table at your favourite restaurant, just for you and you only. Perhaps you’re a fan of shopping, and you’ve been dying to find the excuse to head into town and browse your favourite shops. Whatever your favourite pastime, make sure you set some time aside for it.

Seeing a film and going to a restaurant are activities that traditionally need at least two people, so it takes a lot of courage to take the leap and go by yourself, but organising activities for yourself can be surprisingly freeing. With no need to consider the wants of a companion, you can take the time to focus on yourself and what you enjoy.

Rustle up some Valentine’s food for yourself

Light some candles, play your favourite music, get the atmosphere just right. It’s time for a luxurious dinner with a table for one. Nothing perks a day up more than some good food, which is why making your favourite food on Valentine’s Day is a great way to celebrate.

Unlike a roast dinner at Christmas, Valentine’s Day isn’t usually associated with a particular iconic meal. While chocolate is more popular as a Valentine’s gift than a Valentine’s cooking ingredient, it makes a great addition to savoury dishes too. Your favourite dish paired with your alcohol of choice makes for the ultimate self-care meal.

And for those dessert-lovers out there, Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to get baking. Whether you’re making your favourite vegan desserts or mastering the chocolate molten lava cake, this is the time to appreciate the sweeter things in life. And when you’re snuggled up on the sofa in the evening, there’s no better companion than a warm mug of hot chocolate — perfect for a chilly mid-February day.

Treat yourself to chocolate

Chocolate is the most iconic of all Valentine’s Day gifts. So why miss out just because you’re single? We put together our self-indulgence collection for those times when you deserve a bit of pampering, and there’s no better day to treat yourself than on Valentine’s Day.

Pick your favourite flavours — this is a day for you! Alternatively, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, why not take the chance to try something new? And if you’re feeling particularly indulgent, our boozy liqueur chocolate collection has all you need for an extra dash of decadence.

Spend time with friends on Valentine’s Day

Who says you can only share the love with a romantic partner?

Reach out to others

Chances are, you’re not the only person you know who’s single on Valentine’s Day. If you’re feeling lonely, it’s never a bad idea to reach out to others. Plan a catch up over some drinks with an old friend, ask someone how they’ve been, or even tell a family member you love them. Romance is a wonderful thing, but other kinds of relationships are important too.

Or why not use the day as an opportunity to get in touch with a family member who you haven’t spoken to in a while, or a friend you used to know really well? A message out of the blue from you might make their day. And who knows, maybe you can take the chance to reconnect and rekindle that relationship.

Get Valentine’s Day cards for your friends

For something that feels a bit more special than a message on social media, a Valentine’s Day card for friends is a great way to spread the love. Putting your message in writing is the best way to tell your friends how much you appreciate them and their friendship.

Or if you want to go a step further, you could gift a friend the most classic gift of all: luxury chocolates. From our Tipsy Truffles Sleekster to our pretty-in-pink Strawberries & Cream Chocolate Puddles, you’re bound to find something your pal will love. And if you’re not sure what they’d like best, you can never go wrong with a gift card.

If you feel a Valentine’s Day card is still a little bit too romantic, don’t worry — “Galentine’s Day,” the fictional holiday turned real-life phenomenon, is celebrated one day before on the 13th of February. This holiday is all about friendship, so why not get them some Galentine’s gifts that they’ll love?

Organise a non-romantic movie night

A romantic movie night in is perhaps the classic Valentine’s Day activity, but why not shake it up a bit? Round up some single friends and put your own spin on the celebrations with a non-romantic movie night. Popcorn, drinks, chocolates — get everyone to chip in on their favourite treats.

You could opt for some rom-com classics, but if you’re not in the mood, there are plenty of other genres out there. Whether you’re logging into Netflix to find your next favourite film or pulling out a nostalgic box set, you’re bound to find something fun. Sometimes what you need the most is a distraction from the romantic festivities, and what’s a better way to make the most of the day than escaping into the world of the silver screen?

Single on Valentine’s Day? Enjoy!

Whatever your plans are this Valentine’s Day, whether that’s going out with your best friends or having a relaxing evening solo with your favourite film, and a box of chocolates, being single doesn’t mean you have to miss out.

These are just a few ideas for how you can spend the day when you’re single on Valentine’s. But what matters most is that you do something you love — after all, you deserve it!