The Valentine’s countdown is on and for some, so is the pressure. This can especially feel like the case if the two of you are in the super early stages. When you’re just figuring out where things are going between the two of you. Some may say do nothing and that is a completely acceptable option. However, the 14th is a big deal to some people, it’s make or break status. So, we want to help. Here are 4 ways to handle Valentine’s Day if you just started dating…

• Have a chat to see if they’re even into the day

First, before you start your planning, best to see if you’re both on the same page. You wouldn’t want to put in all that work, only to find that they couldn’t care less about Valentine’s day. So, have a chat. Find out if it’s important to them. Let them know if you don’t usually do anything, but you’re open to, for them.

If it’s a deal breaker for one of you, better to find out now. If it’s something you can compromise on, it shows a bit of promise for your future together. It’s also a good way to gauge where you guys are by how you handle Valentine’s day if you just started dating.

• Don’t do anything to elaborate yet

Yes, some people are into huge flash mobs (remember when those were a big thing?) but you guys just got together. Pace yourself! The best way to handle Valentine’s day if you just started dating? Keeping it a bit lowkey. So, no confessions of love after a couple of weeks together.

You could have a home cooked meal or get them a cute, jokey card. Maybe just have a movie night or, if all else fails, there’s always grabbing a drink in a pub/bar. Maybe one that means something to the both of you? No need to scare them off with too much, after all.

• If you do something, make it a little personal

One of our biggest tips on how to handle Valentine’s day if you just started dating is to make it a little personal. If you do decide to do something, don’t go down the tired route of red roses and a box of chocolates. For one, anyone can do that in their sleep and it doesn’t show that you’ve been paying attention to them at all. (Unless that is their specific brand of romance…)

Now’s the time to do something that shows you’ve been listening/paying attention! If they’re into baking for example, pick out a recipe that you can make together. Try and find something that is sure to make a new, happy memory for the two of you. Experiences are the way to go. The materialistic side can come later, if things progress.

• Don’t feel pressured by the day

Last, but by no means least, the pressure. It can be hard to handle. Especially on Valentine’s day. This is where we remind you that it’s just a day of the week. It shouldn’t be the be all and end all of your relationship. It’s not your anniversary or their birthday. When you think about it, Valentine’s isn’t necessarily a personal holiday, unless you both met that day etc. Don’t let it become a dark cloud hanging over you.

If you’re not ready to do anything together or put a label on what you guys are doing, then don’t. Go at your own pace. Valentine’s day has the potential to feel like a warning that you should hurry up and define the relationship. Ignore that and go with your gut. Can’t go wrong with that 🙂

So, there you have it! 4 ways to handle Valentine’s Day if you just started dating. The most important thing is that you’re both happy with where you’re at and how things are progressing, regardless of what day it is. Remember that and you’ll be grand!