7 Ways to Have an Eco-Friendly Valentine's Day

February 5, 2024

Americans spent around 25.9 billion dollars on Valentine's gifts in 2023. That's a lot of money for flowers and cards, and I think we can do so much better than that this time around. Why don't we revamp Valentine's Day into a holiday where rampant consumerism doesn't run the show, where the thought counts more than the items we've deemed socially acceptable to give and receive? Nobody said you had to stick to the usual fare, and maybe a surprise change could be the right way to shake things up in your relationship. You can also check out this blog on sustainable date night ideas. But here are seven ways we can go about changing how we celebrate this holiday.

Go Eco-Conscious With Your Gift

There are plenty of businesses -- both online and off -- who are sustainable and eco-friendly. They would be the perfect option for buying gifts this Valentine's Day, and you should definitely check them out. They are attempting to make this world a better place, so why not help them out in their mission? A quick Google search will give you all the answers you need to pin down just the right website to support. Here at Verte Mode, we also have plenty of options available for both men and women. We are a sustainable and eco-friendly business with the goal of treating the planet a lot better than we currently do.

Experiences Rather than Presents

Valentine's Day shouldn't be about how much you spend but who you're spending it with. Experiences, outside of gifts, are also a great investment. Go on a picnic. See a movie. Have a couple’s night in. There are so many ways to spend time with one another, and it's guaranteed you'll have a really great time. Take to Pinterest or the above blog post we mentioned about sustainable date night ideas, and take some notes if you'd like.

Get Something They Actually Need

What better way to say “I love you” than to show that you're actually listening to them. Buying something they need sounds like the perfect icing on the cake to a wonderful Valentine's Day. When we buy what will actually get used, it reduces the chances of it ending up in a landfill. This can also include things like helping them out in ways that they need--whether that's grocery shopping or tidying around the house. Showing up in a way that matters is sure to take your loved one by surprise.

Buy Recycled Cards

This holiday staple doesn't necessarily have to be avoided. It can be eco-friendly, too. Love notes are a beautiful way to show you care. There are plenty of recycled options available, and so many designs to choose from. We have a couple of options, as well.

Book a Photo Session

Pictures last a lifetime. They can be framed, posted, and used for profile pictures. They're the versatile gift that just keeps on giving. It's a usable gift that doesn't take up much space, so you can avoid the clutter that comes with teddy bears and other holiday staples that will just end up in the landfills eventually.

Go the Second Hand Route

Valentine's Day gifts don't have to break the bank. On the contrary. Second hand is the perfect option for those of you looking to be eco-friendly and money conscious. Thrift and second hand shops have so much to choose from. You're almost guaranteed to find something for that special person in your life.

Less is More

Finally, it's important to remember that less is more. You don’t have to go overboard to give him or her a memorable Valentine’s Day. You just have to be present and put in some thought. The real key to being eco-friendly this Valentine's Day is just to ask the questions: "is it necessary?" and "will it get used?" If not, you're better off choosing something that will be a yes to both questions.

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