This publication is nothing if not for lovers. Really everything I write here is guided by the gentle hand of romanticism, so a little bit of contemplation on Valentine’s Day is only natural. What I’ve written here is a loose guide for a number of things, but I should include the caveat that no singular suggestion or piece of advice is more valuable than the effort and desire to know your lover deeply. At the end of the day, the onus of meeting your partner’s wants and needs is on you, but I hope these thoughtful suggestions will help spur you into action.
And to all those who are of the opinion that Valentine’s Day is a greeting card holiday and everyday is a reason to make your partner feel loved, I would ask: do you? And what’s so wrong with a reason for grand romantic gestures?
Date Ideas
If you’re looking for something sweet to do
Drinks at a bar with a real analogue photo booth - There’s scarcely a more honest picture than the ones taken in front of a flimsy velveteen curtain and etched in inky noir. What better way to document your love as it looks in this very moment in time?
A well-curated picnic - Let yourself be lulled into a sun-soaked haze. Collect all their favorite snacks and lunch-y things. Stretch out your limbs on a comfortable blanket. Tuck a flower behind your ear.
Bowling and a cutesy late-night diner - Take the pressure off. Give yourselves permission to wear jeans and comfortable shoes and eat as many french fries as you want. Laugh a lot.
A drive-in movie - Surely your city has one, and most likely, it’s playing something sweet. Get cozy. Be alone with everyone. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.
Suggested Recipes
If you’re looking for something impressive to make
Steak au Poivre - Simple and classic. This version is by Alton Brown, whose recipes I typically find reliable and approachable.
Lobster Thermidor - Real 1950s-style decadence à la Julia Child.
Hand-Shucked Oysters - Shucking is a sexy skill to have in your back pocket. Pick up some fresh oysters from your seafood purveyor or the nearest Whole Foods and follow the simple instructions in this video.
Chicken Scarpariello - The perfect recipe for a cozy night in, and one I’ve cooked many times.
Chocolate Rye Torte with Lemon Mascarpone Cloud - My Valentine to you. Subscribe to receive the recipe this weekend.
Crush Reviver #2 - A delightful cocktail recipe by a special guest, also coming to the newsletter this weekend.
Gift Inspo
If you’re shopping for a token of affection
a. See’s chocolate box - An absolute necessity, in my opinion. Customize a box to your lover’s specific tastes, or go with a tried-and-true assortment.
b. Alessi big love heart-shaped ice cream spoons - Darling, timeless and perfectly on theme.
c. Sexy playlist - Something to set the mood, ideally with thoughtful sequencing and custom cover art. The modern-day mixtape.
d. Custom embroidered tea towels - For those who live together. Write your names, a phrase with meaning, an important date, a sweet reminder in your own handwriting.
e. Vintage locket - Find something on eBay and enclose a photo that’s certain to make your loved one feel held — you, the two of you together, you and your pet, your child, you’ll know which one feels right.
f. A bouquet you arranged - Even if you don’t find that you’re especially gifted at floral design, I promise you an earnest effort at making your own bouquet will move your partner in ways a grocery store arrangement simply can’t. This soothing video may offer you a little guidance.
g. I’ll meet you in every life carabiner - Something dreamy to hang on their keychain.
h. A hand-written letter - Bring back radical vulnerability. Pour your heart out. Be a fool for the one you love.
Lusty Scents
If you’re seeking to seduce
Mad Honey by borntostandout - Warm honey, dewy roses and a subtle intensity that lasts for hours
Vanille Leather by BDK Parfums - Soft, sensual and warm
Leather Oud by Dior - Intense, luxurious leather with animalic undertones
With the Candlestick by Clue Perfumery - Smoky, mysterious and sensual
Angelface by SYD Botanica - Sweet synthetic cherry with a heavy floral musk
xoxo
bella
omg I’m such a fan of Lovers never die brand ❣️❣️❣️
love love love