A Different Way to DO Valentine's Gifts - for People Who Want an Alternative to Flowers or Chocolates
Will you be celebrating Valentine’s Day this year? Or perhaps you and the girls do Valentine’s Day instead (13th February day for mates to show their love to each other).
Valentine’s Day can be another one of those times for needlessly spending money on tat, chocolate and things that nobody wants or needs. My husband and I refuse to go out on 14th February because meals cost at least twice as much and are often naff. We’d rather cuddle up with a film and a takeaway.
Early on, I felt so much pressure to get him a great Valentine’s gift but there have been years where I have just had no money or inspiration.
One of the best presents I think I ever gave him was a sketch of the two of us. We were students and it was something nice for him to have in his room that wasn’t a poster of Louise Redknapp. Yes she’s beautiful but here’s a picture of your real girlfriend.
Traditionally, we might give flowers for V Day - something that I love to receive - but it’s so sad when they wilt and then there’s nothing left. You could buy them a plant but then they have to look after it. One flower you never have to worry about wilting is a drawn one. These are my favourite kinds. A piece of art that you have created is so personal so it will mean so much more than anything else you could give them.
Charcoal and chalk drawing of a Begonia. Come to a workshop and create your own masterpiece for a loved one.
If you’d like to learn how to draw a floral still life that will last for your loved one then I’m running a still life drawing workshop on 30th January from 6pm. It will be hosted by Barista Boho in North Shields. You’ll come along and grab a hot drink, learn my drawing tricks and tips and create something beautiful to take away at the end of the evening.
All the props and materials are provided so you just need to some along and have fun. Bring a friend too and make a lovely evening of it catching up and getting arty together.