Valentine’s Day has a way of sneaking up on us. Between busy schedules, long to-do lists, and everyday life, it can quickly become another item we check off instead of an opportunity to truly connect.

This year, we wanted to approach Valentine’s Day a little differently. Instead of focusing on grand gestures or one-size-fits-all romance, we’re leaning into something far more personal: The Five Love Languages.

This approach is inspired by Dr. Gary Chapman’s Five Love Languages framework, which reminds us that:

Love is best expressed when it’s offered in the way it’s most deeply received.

If you’ve never heard of the Five Love Languages, the idea is simple but powerful—we all give and receive love in different ways. For some, love is felt most deeply through words of affirmation or quality time; for others, it’s acts of service, thoughtful gifts, or physical touch. When you understand how someone experiences love, even small gestures can feel deeply meaningful.

Words of Affirmation

For the ones who feel most loved through words, Valentine’s Day is less about what you give and more about what you say.

Handwritten notes go a long way here. A thoughtfully written card placed on a bedside table, tucked into a book, or left with morning coffee can feel deeply personal. Take the time to be specific.

Speak to who they are, not just what they do.

You could also elevate the moment by creating a quiet setting at home. A candle-lit corner, soft music, and uninterrupted time to share words out loud can feel incredibly romantic for someone who values affirmation.

If this feels awkward to you, you are probably learning a new love language! This is going to reap rewards in your relationships if you can press into it.

Quality Time

For those who value quality time, presence is everything.

This can look like a quiet night at home or a romantic evening out. The key is that no matter what you do, you’re fully there. Phones away. Schedules cleared. Attention fully given.

Rather than a typical gift like chocolates or flowers, consider planning something intentional. Consider planning an experience like a slow candlelit dinner at home, or a walk through downtown, or even an afternoon coffee date together.

This is not about splurging; this is about the gift of time and attention. Quality time says, “Nothing else matters right now but you.”

Receiving Gifts

For gift-givers and gift-receivers alike, it’s never about the price tag. It’s about thoughtfulness.

A meaningful Valentine’s gift reflects who they are. Something small but curated. A favorite candle scent. A beautiful object for their home. A piece that feels personal, not generic.

Presentation matters here, too. Wrap it beautifully. Add a note explaining why you chose it. Let the gift tell a story. When someone feels known through a gift, it becomes more than an object. It becomes a reminder of care.

Need help picking the right gift? Head to our social media for our Valentine’s gift guides for her + him. You can also shop with us and receive 15% off now through February 14, both in person and online with code OALOVE15.

Acts of Service

For those who feel loved through actions, Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to lighten their load.

Think about what would truly help them feel supported. Serving them breakfast in bed. Running an errand they’ve been putting off. Handling dinner plans. Taking care of the details so they can rest.

Acts of service are often quiet and behind the scenes, but they communicate love in a powerful way. It’s saying, “I see how much you carry, and I want to help.”

Pairing a simple act of service with a small note or intentional moment can make it feel extra thoughtful.

Physical Touch

For those who feel most connected through physical touch, Valentine’s Day is about closeness.

This can be as simple as holding hands during a walk, lingering hugs, or creating a peaceful space at home that invites rest together. Soft textures, warm lighting, and a comfortable setting can encourage slowing down and being present.

Touch doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful. Often, it’s the quiet, reassuring moments that communicate love the most.

A More Thoughtful Valentine

When we take time to love people in the way they best receive it, Valentine’s Day becomes less about performance and more about connection.

Designing moments with intention, whether through space, time, or simple gestures, allows love to feel personal and grounded. It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what matters.

However you choose to celebrate, let it be thoughtful, intentional, and true to how love is felt. This Valentine’s Day, love beautifully.

Valentine’s Day, Personalized: Celebrate Through the Lens of Love Languages