Add some quirky fun to your day with a retro-style Valentine’s Day picnic date

Surprising your Valentine with some old-school charm is always a winning idea

February - when love and every other cliché about it fills the air. But here’s the thing about romance and clichés - they’re both just begging for a fun refresh! This year we’re saying stay away from last-minute flowers, candy and boring restaurant date-nights and get creative with a well-planned, easy-going picnic instead!

This Valentine’s Day, plan a great escape as you whisk away your significant other to a romantic all-day picnic with a basket filled with the essentials and an itinerary that’s unique to you. Photography by Prachi Damle

1. The set up - It doesn't matter if you’re the active, outdoorsy type or not, the slight nip in the air and soft winter sunlight makes for the perfect time for a picnic. If you don’t have access to a park or garden try hiring a yurt or renting a strategically located Airbnb. Start by breaking out your softest blanket. Chill some of your favourite drinks, add fresh flowers and a platter of nibbles. For some legit retro-ambience, try a cool boom box with old-school jams playing in the background and a fun board game for two.

2. Up close & personal - Level up your date night with a trip down memory lane. Set up a portable projector to re-watch a favourite film, create a presentation of your very first travel memories and end with handwritten notes to each other that you can exchange on the spot and cherish through the year ahead.

If you put a little thought into it, there are plenty of ways to reclaim the festivity and fun of Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank.

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