I have to admit, I LOVE Valentine's Day! Over the years I've heard so many people, especially men, say it's not their favorite holiday. Maybe because they think the effort feels forced. The expectations are high, and of course, as we've all heard, "everyday should be treated as Valentine's Day". Well as a busy woman who's always on the go, I really appreciate having a day dedicated to celebrating the ones I love, including my cockapoo Carly! No matter if you're single, dating or married, Valentine's Day is the perfect time to put a little extra effort into showing how much love you have for those special people in your life. Whether it is a card, a gift, a big hug or flowers. Even the smallest gesture is so meaningful. Here's how I celebrate with my loved ones!
{Sean and I}
This Valentine's Day will be extra special because it's Sean and my first Valentine's Day as Husband and Wife. We got married last July in South Carolina at Palmetto Bluff. You can see more of our Wedding details here. He has something special planned this Saturday, but it's a secret so I will have to update you on my next blog! I love a good surprise. Two years ago he surprised me after work with tickets to the Broadway show, Phantom of the Opera. He has the biggest heart and I am so grateful I met him.
{Planning our wedding in Palmetto}
Last V-Day was my absolute favorite. Sean and I made a trip down to South Carolina to plan our wedding. On top of that, our parents met for the first time! Since Sean proposed over Thanksgiving and we wanted to get married the following summer, with our busy schedules, we had to plan the bulk of our wedding over that weekend. Thankfully I had an incredible wedding planner, Ashley Rhodes, who made it happen. And as "icing on the cake", our parents had a wonderful time together and have become great friends.
I honestly never expect more than flowers and a heartfelt card, but Sean always surprises me with something special. I love this initial necklace he gave me last year. To me, giving is most of the fun on any holiday. I usually buy Sean his favorite cologne or a pair of sunglasses he's been eyeing for Valentine's Day.
I love a red lip, but I feel its a little predictable on V-Day. It can also be a little messy when out to dinner. And let's be honest, guys don't want to wear your lipstick either ; ) so this V-Day I’m going retro! With 2 coats of volumizing mascara, an eyeliner flick, shimmery pink eyeshadow, rosy cheeks and a bright pink lip stain, all from Wander Beauty, I'll be ready for whatever Sean has planned!
Are you ready for the best brownie you've ever tasted? This is my Aunt Jenny's Decadent Brownie family recipe. Use a heart shaped cookie cutter for added cuteness.
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
Dash salt
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 (16 oz) can Hershey’s chocolate syrup
1 cup + 2 tablespoons flour
1 cup walnuts
Beat butter, sugar and 2 eggs. Add 2 more eggs, chocolate syrup, flour and nuts. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
Frosting:
½ cup butter
½ cup milk
2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 (12 oz pkg) chocolate chips
Stir butter, milk and sugar over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat. Add chocolate chips, beat well.
Enjoy!
It seems like everyday is Valentine's Day for dogs. They are just so full of love!! This is my little cockapoo Carly. We found her in California. She was the smallest of her litter and the last one left, so of course I had to have her! She's now 2 years old and so healthy and happy. We are so in love. She's definitely getting a new toy and some extra treats as well as lots of cuddles and kisses...ok that's a typical day in her life. I just can't help but spoil her!
What are your favorite Valentine's Day traditions? How do you plan on celebrating your loved ones? I hope everyone has a very special weekend!
xo,
Lindsay