10 Simple Ways to Say, “I Love You!”

Valentine’s Day is nearly here so I thought I’d write out a list of 10 simple ways to say I love you that you can make to show your love. Whether or not you have a lot of money to spend, you can create a heart-felt gift that he’ll remember for a long time to come. And honestly, these ideas can be used year-round to encourage and make his day!

10 Simple Ways to Say, “I Love You!”

1. Write out 10, 20, or even 100 things you love about him. I’ve seen this idea all over the internet, ranging from writing love notes on a stack of playing cards to writing thoughts on cut-out construction paper hearts. I’m a list maker so this one always appeals to me.

2. Cook his favorite meal. Unless his favorite meal is crazy expensive, it is likely that it will cost less to cook it rather than to go out to a restaurant. You could also try cooking a more elaborate meal rather than your normal everyday dinners. I have so many recipes that I want to try and like to pull them out for special occasions like this.

3. Make him a card. Simple and sweet. You don’t have to be a Martha Stewart-style crafter to make a little card. You could even double up and fill this card with those 25 things you love about him. I hand-stitched this card for my husband and my daughter scribbled on the back with colored pencils so he received some love from both of us.

4. Pray for him. This one is one of those invisible gifts that you can’t really package but that really matters. I’d suggest doing this as you make your gift. Pray for your relationship, for his heart, and for the things that you know he needs. If you’re new to this idea, I recommend Stormie Omartian’s book, The Power of a Praying Wife. I’ve gone back to that book more times than I can count; it’s a great resource.

5. Make him a treat. I couldn’t resist. What guy doesn’t like a treat? I like making my mini-batch chocolate chip cookies or a plate of chocolate cake mix cookies for my husband. The best part is, you could sneak a couple for yourself too, you know, in order to celebrate Valentine’s Day together.

6. Go on a coffee date together. We did this often when we were dating, and it was one of my favorite dates. We would buy a cup of coffee and share a treat and then talk like we hadn’t seen each other in years. It really is the simple things.

7. Have a date night at home once the kids are in bed. Rent a movie and make some popcorn or eat a nice meal together complete with candlelight. These days, this is what our date nights look like. With a little planning, they’re actually quite nice.

8. Listen. Ask him about his day and really listen. No interrupting to get your story in allowed. If you’ve ever had someone really listen to you and be interested in what you’re sharing, you’ll know how wonderful you felt after you spent time with them.

9. Do something random and silly together. Before we were married, one of our favorite dates was walking to our local library, sitting in the children’s section, and reading books from our childhoods to each other. I know, how cute, right? But seriously, it was a fun way to get to know each other and the children’s section was always completely empty in the evenings.

10. Create some encouragement cards for him. I’ve even included a free printable for you to get started! There’s just something about a hand-written note of thanks that goes a long way. And if you plan these out a little bit, you can make sure he gets one every day of Valentine’s week (or whatever you’re celebrating).

Hopefully these ideas will get your creativity sparked to think up even more simple and sweet gifts for your guy. And remember, in the end the most important gift you can give is being present yourself.

“Wherever you are, be all there!” – Jim Elliot

So whether you create an elaborate experience or a simple one, remember that you being invested, present, and listening is the most important thing.

Happy Valentine’s Week!

P.S. If you like the idea of sending encouraging cards to your love, check out The {10 Minute} Letter-writing Retreat Bundle. It’s packed with prompts, tutorials, and printable stationery. Learn more here.