Not that I’m counting, but as I type, there are twenty eight days until one of the first major holidays of 2016 takes place.
The holiday that everyone loves to hate: Valentine’s Day. Some of us cringe or roll our eyes in response to those two words, and some of us are thrilled. Whether it’s something you’re looking forward to or it’s just another day on the calendar, I would love to share some ideas with you about how to make Valentine’s Day an enjoyable and more meaningful holiday.
If you’re anything like me, at one point in your life you may have boycotted the idea of Valentine’s Day all together. In a certain light, it can seem like society’s excuse to get people to spend hundreds of dollars on trinkets, fancy dinners, jewels, gems, uncomfortable ties or dresses, and other expensive, tangible, but ultimately meaningless expressions of love. However, this year I’m taking on a new perspective and putting on some rose colored glasses.
Make it meaningful; keep it local. Whether you’re treating yourself by relaxing at home on the couch with some treats and a good Netflix binge, or taking your sweetheart out, you can choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day and other major holidays this year by choosing to purchase local gifts or choosing local restaurants.
With new and local breweries, artisans, and cafes constantly sprouting up, there is absolutely no shortage of choices in keeping it local for your Valentine's Day celebration. Snuggle up on the couch with a good blanket and some of My Vegan Sweet Tooth’s perfect treats. Trying to impress your sweetheart with a candle light dinner at home? Stop by your favorite farmer’s market or Organic Food Depot to pick up what you need. Want to let someone else do the cooking and take care of the dishes? For every kind of food you could possibly want, there’s a selection of local, caring, passionate, chefs in Hampton Roads that would be thrilled to be apart of your Valentine’s Day experience. Looking to go out for a drink afterwards? Stop by Tubby’s Tavern or Murphy’s Irish Pubto top off the experience. Let’s not forget about flowers! Several local florists will be putting together some gorgeous arrangements, and would be thrilled to help you make your selection.
These are just some of the few retailers, restaurants, bars, and cafes in Hampton Roads that will be open and buzzing on Valentine’s Day weekend. Be sure to make your reservations. This year, make it meaningful, momentous, and perfectly unique by choosing to celebrate in true Hampton Roads fashion.
Check the website for more ideas and connections to the area’s other restaurants and retailers.
By Marah Strickland for Buy Fresh Buy Local.