Single on Valentine’s Day and Still Celebrating Love

Single on Valentine’s Day

To some, just the thought of that statement feels terrifying.

To others, Valentine’s Day barely even registers. Some people genuinely forget it exists and could care less about the date or the holiday altogether. I even have married friends who proudly say they do not celebrate it at all. That it is made up.

And then some go all out. The flowers, the dinners, the gifts, the thoughtful gestures meant to showcase love on one specific day. Many couples have celebrated countless Valentine’s Days together, so sometimes a simple dinner, a box of chocolates, or flowers is more than enough. As long as their partner feels loved and not forgotten.

Valentine’s Day looks different for everyone.

Looking Back on Valentine’s Days Past

I think back on Valentine’s Days over the years.

Those early ones, as an exclusive couple, were filled with butterflies, roses, and chocolates. Wondering for days beforehand if they would get me anything, especially in those fresh, green relationships.

Then there were the years of dating someone, but not exclusively. The quiet disappointment when they did not even go as far as to say Happy Valentine’s Day.

The school years stand out, too. The brown paper bags taped to our desks, classmates dropping cartoon Valentine cards inside. Valentine’s grams that students could purchase and have delivered to class. I always hoped someone would send me one. Rarely, if ever, did that happen for me. Hopefully, some of you were luckier with love back then.

There were years of fancy dinners with boyfriends. Fun and flirtation. Seductive photo books. Roses scattered across the bed. Lingerie and all the extras. In 2022, I celebrated my first anniversary with my boyfriend at River Spirit Casino. We people watched, shared a seafood tower, and exchanged gifts scattered throughout the room. It felt exciting and full in that moment, the kind of Valentine’s celebration that checks all the boxes.

Then, the next day, which happened to actually be Valentine’s Day, I got a phone call around mid-morning that stopped everything. A doctor on the other end telling me I had cancer. No drama. No buildup. Just one of those moments that quietly divides life into before and after. I remember sitting on my front patio later that day, talking with his father, who just happened to be a cervical cancer oncologist, having a conversation I never imagined having. About my life. My health. My future. It was surreal, but also grounding in a way I did not fully understand at the time. 

In 2023, Valentine’s Day looked much simpler. A casual, romantic dinner in. Steak, lobster & wine. Simple & lovely. And honestly, after everything the year before, simple felt just right. 

The year after that, I snuck away with a group of my girlfriends and their families to Park City to ski over Valentine’s Day. It was relaxed, laughter-filled, and a reminder that love does not always look romantic to be meaningful. 

Then last year, I found myself in San Diego for my cousin’s wedding with my brother. I bought him a Valentine’s card, brought him along on the trip, and left it waiting for him on his bed. He got me nothing, which now, actually, makes me smile more than anything. Another reminder that Valentine’s Day never really follows a script, and that is okay.

I love Valentine’s Day. Most years. A reason to get dolled up, eat well, celebrate love, and the beautiful colors of red & pink. Yes please!

This Year Looks Different

For me, this year, I choose me.

After ending my long-term long-distance relationship this summer, I find myself asking what I actually want to do.

Do I want to lie in bed, eat chocolates, and order Taco Bueno? Maybe.

Do I want to have a few single girlfriends over, watch rom coms, and eat pizza? Also maybe.

Do I want to reconnect with past loved ones, including the man I recently parted ways with, who is still in my life but navigating personal challenges? Possibly.

Whatever my Valentine’s looks like this year and whatever yours looks like, have fun with it.

Wear red.

Put on a pretty lipstick.

Love yourself. How about that?

Because ultimately, that is what matters most. You. Me. Myself. And I.

Choosing Yourself on Valentine’s Day

Rolling into Valentine’s Day this year, mine may look different. Just like it always has. Each year brings new experiences, both good and bad.

Social media will be filled with lovey-dovey posts. Romantic dinners. Grand gestures. Some people may avoid scrolling altogether so they do not feel alone.

But do we really have to feel alone?

We choose how we feel. We choose every single day.

So why not choose you?

Love you.

Love a family member.

Love a friend.

Love someone you have admired quietly.

It is the day of love. And everyone loves someone.

So why not show it a little and have some fun?

A Valentine’s Memory That Still Sticks

Some of my fondest Valentine’s Day memories are from childhood.

My dad was a hard-working man. On Valentine’s Day, we would be home with my mom when suddenly the doorbell would ring. My brother, my mom, and I would race to the door. No one would be there.

But when we looked down, there were flowers, cards, candy, stuffed animals, and sometimes even jewelry. From my dad.

About fifteen minutes later, he would pull in through the garage, and we would shower him with love and thanks. To this day, if my dad is in town, he still does that. Even when I am single.

That small effort still makes me smile.

So maybe go do that for someone else. Put a smile on their face.

What memories do you have of Valentine’s Day?

And if you do not have any, why not make some? Even if those memories include only yourself and doing what you love.

Ideas for Valentine’s Day If You Are Single

If you are running short on ideas, here are a few:

•Galentine’s dinner or party

A perfect excuse to gather with other single friends, laugh, eat good food, and feel connected.

•A photo shoot just for you

I love getting dressed up. I genuinely feel happier and more confident on the days I do. Schedule a shoot, grab a new outfit or lingerie, and take photos simply for yourself. A reminder that you are beautiful and worthy of celebrating.

• One-on-one time with your child

If you have kids, take one of them out for a special dinner, movie, concert, or show. Those moments matter more than gifts.

•Ask someone out

Yes, really. Step outside your comfort zone. Ask someone out that you enjoy or have had your eye on. And ladies, it is 2026. Making the first move is more than acceptable. Some men actually prefer it.

•Crafting and dinner night

Hop on Pinterest and find a craft that looks fun. Wreath making, painting, scrapbooking, photography, sewing. Or take a class like cake decorating, charcuterie, floral arranging, or a Pinot’s Palette-style class. Learn something new and feed yourself well while you are at it.

•Movie and dinner night

Pick a movie you have been wanting to watch, stream it, get cozy, and enjoy a quiet night in.

•Cook yourself a meal

I love finding new recipes on Pinterest and giving them a shot. Grab ingredients at the store, put on good music, and cook something special. Bonus points for leftovers the next day.

•A book or audiobook date

Visit a bookstore, pick out something new, or download an audiobook and unwind.

•Dating apps

Some may roll their eyes, but why not? Sometimes it is fun just to chat. To feel butterflies again. Even if it goes nowhere. Bumble, Hinge, and yes, even Tinder can spark a connection or at least remind you that options exist.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few ideas. There is no need to feel down if you are alone this year.

Make the best of it.

And if you want a partner one day, tell the universe what you are looking for. Write it down. Be specific. Who knows what next year might bring?

For now, enjoy yourself. Spoil yourself. Do exactly what you want to do.

Just ask, and you shall receive.

Happy Valentine’s Day.

Make dinner reservations early if that is your thing.

And whatever you do, do it with intention.

With much love,

Tiffany 💗

P.S. I love you.
If you’re looking for a cozy Valentine’s Day binge, Bridgerton season four is a beautiful choice. The visuals, the elegance, and the romantic storytelling make it the perfect escape for a quiet night in.