Valentine’s Day Made Better with Eco-Friendly Ideas and Random Acts of Kindness

Valentine’s Day is here once again and although it is a highly commercialized day, it is still one where you can show others how much you care. Even the simplest idea may be the one that is loved the most. So, whether you have already spent weeks planning your Valentine’s Day or you are hoping to pull things off last minute, here are a few simple yet eco-friendly Valentine’s Day tips that could put your gift over the top.

1. FLOWERS: If you are planning on giving your loved one flowers, make sure you know the meaning behind your choice of flower. Getting organic flowers is also a smart idea. An even better one is to buy a living plant or rose bush that will last longer than just a few days or a week. Since you can upcycle anything into a planter, why not get creative with your Valentine’s present? My guess is that the extra thought and effort you put in to your gift will be well worth it.
2. FOOD: For those of you who have not already made reservations at your favorite restaurant, you might want to consider eating in. Even if you have made reservations, it would be a lot more romantic to cook a meal at home for your and the one you love. With a quick trip to the organic section of your local grocer and a few budget-friendly organic recipes, you will be good to go. Oh….don’t forget to make these gooey Valentine’s Day Baked S’mores. Mmmmmm.
3. CHOCOLATES: For those who have loved ones with a definite sweet tooth, I recommend checking out the health benefits of raw chocolate. With a simple raw chocolate recipe, you could have a DIY chocolate masterpiece. There are also a few allegedly eco-friendly chocolate brands that you could opt for in a pinch. (NOTE: I have not checked these out myself as I’m not a big chocolate fan, but if you are, I’d love to hear about your favorite organic and eco-friendly chocolates.)

You may not be aware of the fact that this week is also Random Acts of Kindness® week. So, in addition to all of the things you have planned for those you love, remember to include a few random acts of kindness to those around you. This infographic offers a few ideas to get you started and here are a few inspirational quotes to get you in the giving mood.

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” – Dalai Lama

“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” – Mother Teresa

“A little thought and a little kindness are often worth more than a great deal of money.” – John Ruskin

“Kindness is a language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” – Mark Twain

“Kindness doesn’t cost a thing, but it’s value is priceless.” – Author unknown

Don’t forget that businesses can celebrate a sustainable Valentine’s Day too! No matter where you are or what you plan on doing, remember that it doesn’t take much to make your Valentine’s Day an eco-friendly one!

Heart-shaped door wreath image by Selena N. B. H. via Flickr Creative Commons license