If the abundance of red and pink hearts on campus wasn’t an obvious clue, Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching.
Although I’m sure many couples on campus are rushing to plan a romantic evening together, if you’re an unattached female such as myself, you may not be looking as favorably on the 14th.
To that I say: No boyfriend/girlfriend? No problem!
For years I have been making plans with my fellow single friends. You don’t have to be in a relationship to celebrate. It’s the one day of the year when it is socially acceptable to drink wine and eat chocolate to your heart’s content. Why shouldn’t you take full advantage? Instead of Valentine’s Day being another reminder of your singleness, make it a day to celebrate your personal independence.
So, if you’re struggling to find fun Valentine’s Day plans, I have some ideas for you and your friends.
Athens Uncorked, the new — and only — wine bar in town boasts on their website to offer “26 wines by the glass” and a “quiet, comfortable atmosphere.” Whether you’re looking for a place to take your date or a place to hang out with friends, this place sounds perfect.
Although the idea of wine tasting can be filed away as a romantic couple’s activity, it tends to be a popular choice among groups of friends. Rather than sit inside watching sappy rom-coms with a box of Franzia, amp up your girl’s night. Trade your PJs and fuzzy slippers for a nice dress and heels. Get together beforehand and do each other’s hair and makeup. Just because you’re with your friends doesn’t mean you can’t look good doing it.
But on the other hand, if you’d rather stay in, throw a Valentine’s Day-themed pajama party. Grab some wine and have everyone bring their favorite movie and snack (chocolate, of course). Try baking cookies or planning some crafts, such as making each other Valentines. You can draw names out of a hat and say what you love or admire about each other. Is it sappy? Yes. But is it a fun way to bring you and your friends closer together? Absolutely.
As an even more extreme alternative, pull a Jessica Biel and Jennifer Garner in the movie Valentine’s Day and throw an “Anti-Valentine’s Day” party. The idea is that, instead of celebrating the holiday, you mock it in full party fashion.
You don’t need a significant other to make your Valentine’s Day special. All you need is some friends, a little wine, and plenty of chocolate. As always, be safe and have fun!
Olivia Hupp is a senior studying English literature and creative writing. Email her at oh994610@ohio.edu.
