It’s that time of year again, and whether you’re coupled up, showing the love to friends, family, and neighbors, or planning an extravagant Galentine’s Day feast this Valentine’s Day — we’ve got four creative ways to express your adoration and loving gratitude, all from the comfort of your own backyard.
1. Heat things up al fresco
In any relationship, collaboration is key. Rather than overpay for a prix fixe at a restaurant, work together to plan a dream date meal and splurge on delicious ingredients. Take the cooking outdoors and heat up dinner over Outer’s Fire Pit Table which comes with a removable cast iron griddle top. After the cooking is done, cozy up by the fire and enjoy dinner al fresco.
Don’t forget dessert. Gather all the fixings for perfect s’mores and roast them over an open flame. Romantic.
2. A night at the backyard movies
Enjoy the most classic of date nights in your own backyard. Our Hosts have organized some extravagant and inspiring backyard theaters, and the Outer Sofa is the perfect seating for the occasion. Hang a sheet or projector screen on a garage or bare wall, (or just use the wall) and project a film under the stars while snuggling under blankets. Don’t forget the snacks and popcorn, of course.
3. Sleepover in the backyard
If the kiddos are with you for Valentine’s Day, they’ll fall in love with the idea of a backyard campout — depending on your February climate of course.
Check out this step-by-step guide for setting up camp in the backyard. Essentially, you’ll recreate the feeling of being in the wilderness just steps away from your home — pitch a tent and gather sleeping bags, pillows, lots of blankets, flashlights, snacks, and card games.
Unplug for the night and pretend you’re in the woods, stargazing and listening to the sound of nature as you fall asleep. It can be truly relaxing and rejuvenating.
4. A lovers' scavenger hunt
Nothing says I love you like multiple gifts strategically placed around the yard with a series of written clues to reveal their whereabouts. Scavenger hunts are fun for the entire family, and don’t need to be reserved for just Easter! Create a map or series of clues with inside jokes or personal history that make this as much about finding hidden treasures as it is about walking down memory lane.
Gifts don’t have to be extravagant. A love note, written affirmation, or favorite candy are a joy to unwrap — or maybe even something wearable that sparkles.
