Most people plan big, expensive outings for Valentine’s Day. The only trouble with that is so does everyone else!  So instead of being the memorable, romantic experience you hoped it would be, it’s crowded, you struggle to find a parking spot, and you feel rushed to finish your meal so the next guests can take your table.

Sometimes it’s better to skip the crowds and plan a Valentine’s Day at home instead. Here are some great ideas for comfortable, romantic and fun Valentine’s activities you can do at home:

1. Break out the fondue pot, set it up in front of the fire, and enjoy a Swiss style cheesy treat for two. Add wine and chocolate to follow, and you might as well be in the alps.
2. Skip the dishes and order in from your favorite restaurant. Many restaurants offer pickup or delivery services, and there’s nothing better than enjoying your favorite restaurant meal in the comfort of your own home.
3. Plan and cook your own meal, together. Cooking together is fun and romantic, and you can create something delicious together. Whether it’s a signature dish or a new recipe, the process of joint preparation is great for bonding.
4. Take the day off work, and spend it at home together. Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, so take the following Monday off work together. Sleep in, stay in your pajamas all day, switch off your phone and banish any thought of work.
5. Since Valentine’s Day is on a Sunday this year, why not make it a family affair, and start the day with a large, delicious family brunch, or take a family trip to somewhere great for lunch?
6. Go Valentine’s crazy with your décor. Purchase heart shaped pillows, red chenille throws and roses, and transform your living room into a kitsch and fantastic love fest. Spend the day in your pajamas, watching movies on the loved up sofa.
7. Purchase picture frames in a variety of shapes and sizes. Print out black and white photos of yourself and your spouse, and all the other valentines in your family, as well as messages of love and create a display wall that showcases the love in your home.
8. Designate Valentine’s Day as “dessert and decadence” day. Purchase or bake a variety of goodies, cakes and cupcakes, and indulge in all of the things you avoid the rest of the year.
9. Place red, white and pink sticky notes with reasons why you love your spouse or partner throughout the home, in places where they’re likely to find them.

Valentine’s day may be one of the more commercial holidays on the calendar, but it doesn’t have to be a cookie cutter or expensive event.  You don’t have to fight through crowds or max out your credit card to have a great day with the person (or people) you love.  In fact, if you spend Valentine’s Day at home this year, you can save the money towards a weekend getaway instead!