By: Claire Daly and Kacey Richardson

   The forecast shows that the typhoon of love is fast approaching, but, in the eye of the hurricane, are the stressed boyfriends and admirers, scrambling to prepare the perfect Valentine’s Day for their ladyloves. Movies and social media make it seem like girls expect grand gestures and expensive gifts. Much to the dismay of desperate readers, there is some truth to those expectations. At the same time, what girls actually want on Valentine’s Day may be simpler than clichés suggest. 

   Valentine’s Day is an important day of the year that’s full of love and brings everyone together. Some people may know what to get their crush, or not. Guys and girls spend lots of time deciding on what to get, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to ask your crush out with a cute basket, or even a nice card. 

   “I think Valentine’s Day isn’t really about material things like chocolate and flowers, but it is more about knowing that someone cares about you and thinks about you,” said freshman Blake Ryon.

   Most boys choose to do the classic chocolate and flowers gift, but a more personal and meaningful gift is more thoughtful. Instead of buying your girlfriend something to show them how much you love them, you could also get something more special to up your chances of stealing your girl’s heart.

   Boys may say Valentine’s Day is about appreciation and not what’s in the gift bag, but some girls aren’t afraid to admit that gifts definitely don’t hurt. Valentine’s Day for many includes both affection and a carefully curated wishlist.

   “I want a basket with flowers, a promise ring, a Swarovski necklace, an Alo set, and shoes,” said junior Brooke Tallitsch. 

   Some girls decided to skip the presents and go straight to the boarding pass. Tallitsch mentioned that she would love to travel to the Maldives on Valentine’s Day, while senior Noelle Hahn’s ideal date consisted of going to an amusement park in South Korea.

   Not every dream date requires a plane ticket and designer brands, though. A low-key Valentine’s Day closer to home proved to be just as appealing to others. Thoughtful gestures and good company can make the day feel equally as special. 

   “I would really love a date in the arcade where we’re both having fun, shooting hoops, and competing with each other,” claimed senior Sumi Llivichuzhca Loja.

Simplicity and luxury aside, there is such a thing as doing too little. The day can feel disappointing if the baseline isn’t met, so every suitor should consider making the effort to not fall below it. 

   “He should at least provide acts of service, whether it be chocolates, a handmade gift, or always opening the door,” explained junior Kavya Serelathan.

   One tool that can make Valentine’s Day a little less stressful is Giftful, a site that helps users create and share wishlists. Many girls use it not only to organize the gifts they hope to receive, but also to show their friends and “ooh” and “ahh” over products together. For guys who have no idea what to buy, Giftful can be a lifesaver since it makes it easier for them to know exactly what gifts will hit the mark. 

“To avoid buying your girl gifts that she’s not gonna use, I think Giftful is great because you’ll not only know what she truly wants, but you won’t waste your money,” explained senior Hannah Cardwell.

   With the holiday of love approaching fast, it gives many MRHS students the opportunity to embrace their love for each other and show what it means to be loved. Doing something as simple as a cute arcade date or something bigger like traveling with someone can show them how much they mean to you. So, as this Valentine’s Day approaches, go out and get that set your girlfriend has wanted, or even get a spot at a nice restaurant in town that they’ve been wanting to go to.