8 Ways to Make a Friend Feel Special on Valentine's Day (2024)

For many women (and some men), Valentine's Day means much more than hearts, chocolates, and roses; the affection they feel on that day extends beyond lovers to their close friends and relatives, too.

Whether you celebrate Valentine's Day or Día del Amor y la Amistad (Day of Love and Friendship)—as do many Latin Americans—February 14th offers a perfect opportunity to show affection for close friends, who add so much to our lives.

Since even the strongest of friendships need to be nurtured, here are eight ways to let your closet friends know how important they are to you on Valentine's Day (or any other day of your choosing):

  1. Say it in words. Call her or write her a card, note, or email telling her just how much her friendship means to you. After all, Valentine's Day gives everyone license to act a bit more affectionate than usual.
  2. Remind her visually. Send her a photo of a wonderful time you had together in the past and tell her how happy it makes you feel that you're still friends after all those years.
  3. Give her the gift of time. Instead of continually saying, "We have to get together," make concrete plans. Get out your electronic calendar or datebook and set a time when you can spend quality time together—even if it's just over a cup of coffee.
  4. Plan a getaway or trip together. Perhaps you've both been busy and haven't seen each other for a while. Your lives have diverged yet you still feel like you're kindred spirits. Make a relaxed lunch date, spa date, or commit to a weekend when you have uninterrupted time to make new memories.
  5. Weave her into the fabric of your life. If she's single and you're married with children, invite her to join one or more of your family traditions. If you think she might enjoy the company of another close friend of yours, introduce them to each other. Introduce her to your mother, sister, or cousin.
  6. Do something together. Suggest that you both read the same book or go to a movie so you can talk about it afterward. It can be a great springboard for discussing feelings and values.
  7. If something has recently gotten in the way of your friendship and you believe you may have been at fault, don't be too big to apologize.
  8. Express your love. Yesterday, I posted a remembrance about the tragic and untimely death of Jeffrey Zaslow, author of The Girls from Ames, The Magic Room, and many other wonderful works that read like love stories. He reminded people of a lesson he learned from Randy Pausch—to take the time to hug the people they care about. What could be more fitting than a hug or a kiss?

Have you recently shown a friend how much you care? What did you do?

This is a slightly revised version of a post that I posted previously on The Friendship Blog, in memory of my Dad who died on Valentine's Day, 2006, the day of my parent's 60th anniversary.

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8 Ways to Make a Friend Feel Special on Valentine's Day (2024)

FAQs

What can I do for my friends on Valentine's Day? ›

Enjoy a tasting party or potluck.

Treat yourself (and your friends) to a delicious meal by hosting a potluck or tasting party. You can make it extra special by following a Valentine's Day theme, including heart-shaped foods, red and pink foods only or dishes you each love.

What do you say to a good friend on Valentine's Day? ›

"On this day of love, I want you to know that your friendship is more valuable to me than all the chocolates and flowers in the world. Happy Valentine's Day!" "Sending warm wishes to the friend who has been with me through thick and thin. Happy Valentine's Day, and here's to many more years of friendship!"

What can I give my best friend for Valentine? ›

Valentines Gifts for Friends

If your bestie loves flowers, they'll love a mixed bouquet with flowers or flowering Valentine's plants. For friends that love savory and sweet treats, they'll love delicious chocolate covered strawberries, or Valentine's Day gift baskets with their favorite treats!

What is Valentine's day for friends called? ›

What is Galentine's/Palentine's Day? Galentine's and Palentine's Day are like Valentine's Day, except instead of celebrating love with your significant other, you spend the day enjoying and appreciating the bond you have with your closest and best friends.

What are true friendship Valentine quotes? ›

That's when I realized what a true friend was. Someone who would always love you — the imperfect you, the confused you, the wrong you — because that is what people are supposed to do.

Should you say Happy Valentines to a friend? ›

If you know they're in a happy relationship, I suppose you might inquire about their plans. Yes, it is entirely appropriate to wish a friend "Happy Valentine's Day" if you want to convey good wishes and spread positivity.

How to make someone feel special on Valentine's Day? ›

This Valentine's Day, take time out of your schedule to plan a special outing with your loved ones. Whether that means a nice hike or a picnic in the park, there's nothing like spending quality time together – and the memories will last a lifetime. Make a playlist: Remember when making people mixtapes was a thing?

How to spice up Valentine's Day? ›

Taking a bubble bath together is the perfect way to relax and connect on valentine's day. Add some aromatherapy candles, bath salts, and a glass of champagne, and you'll have an extra special evening. Don't forget to set the mood with the perfect music you'll both love too.

Can you gift friends on Valentine's day? ›

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and whatever your relationship status is, February 14th is as good a day as any to celebrate the special people in your life. So, this year, make it a point to celebrate your friends with fun gifts that show you care.

Can you celebrate friends on Valentine's day? ›

Valentine's Day extends beyond romantic relationships; it's an ideal moment to honour all forms of love, particularly the treasured ties of friendship. While the day is often synonymous with romantic love, there's an equally enchanting joy in honouring the bonds we share with our friends.

Can friends hang out on Valentine's day? ›

Get your favorite food, watch your favorite show or movie — just relax. You can even have a fun night with your single friends.

Can I send a Valentine to a friend? ›

You can send this greeting to any friends or family members you want to let know they are special to you. If you only want to send one card, you can always send this one to any friends or family members you want to let know they are special to you.

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