valentinesday Archives - Nabila Khashoggi

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”
–Charles M. Schulz

Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays that may seem like an excuse to price gouge lovers when it comes to gourmet chocolates and long-stemmed red roses but, I must admit, I really love Valentine’s Day. Just the aesthetic of a vintage picture postcard with a cupid on it wielding his mighty arrow and bow is enough to evoke feel-good feelings of love, flirtation, and romance. There’s nothing better than a heart-shaped box of chocolates wrapped in a red bow, a single crimson rose in a bud vase (or an entire bouquet), and maybe even a sugar cookie decorated with red sprinkles. Here are some tips for enjoying the holiday. Let’s all rejoice in a little levity!

Sweets

Vintage candies and desserts are such fun! Heart-shaped cakes, cookies, and even Jell-O molds are absolutely precious! Of course, most people enjoy candy on Valentine’s Day but remember that it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Nothing quite beats a simple (yet full of nostalgia) Whitman’s Sampler! The chocolates do not have to be artisanal or high-end: the key to this holiday is all about aesthetics so, as long as the box is heart-shaped (with a ribbon, tulle, and some frilly lace), you’re good to go! And let us not forget about the cutest Valentine’s trend of all: pastel Conversation Hearts that say “Be Mine” and “I Love You” are undeniably adorable. Of course, cocktails are also a must for V-Day. Whether you’re having a “Gal-entine’s” celebration with your best girlfriends, a quiet evening at home with your significant other, or a night out on the town, champagne always makes everything more festive. If you’re cooking up something really romantic for him or her, surprise them with chocolate-covered strawberries and something baked from scratch.

Flowers

Of course, roses are the most popular and traditional choice for Valentine’s Day flowers. Long-stemmed roses, tuberoses or spray roses: they all make a traditional and lasting impression. If you’re looking for something a little less expected but still on theme, try carnations in red, pink or white. Also, remember that you can never steer off course with baby’s breath.

Greeting Cards

Hand-written love letters, cards in fancy envelopes sealed with a kiss, postcards and even hand-made stationery are the backbone of Valentine’s Day! A small heart fashioned from construction paper covered in glitter is possibly one of the most precious gifts a person can receive. So, whether you pen your own epic love letter, purchase one from a high-end boutique or from an aisle at the corner chemist, make sure it’s heartfelt and sincere. And, please, write in cursive! There’s nothing romantic and old fashioned about printing.

Fun Decorations

Red and pink hearts made from tissue paper, light bulbs glowing red, confetti in the shape of cupids and long, tapered candlesticks all add to the frivolity and romance of Valentine’s Day. We all remember Valentine’s dances in Junior High and High School and, if we were lucky, there was maybe a disco ball, an enormous punch bowl, balloons, and some decent music playing. Now that we’re all grown up we can have our own Valentine’s Day parties and decorate exactly as we please. Don’t forget a white linen tablecloth and soft lighting for a romantic dinner, elegant glassware for a cocktail party and, this time, go for it and spike the punch.

6 Self-Care Tips Perfect for This Valentine’s Day

Whether you plan to go out for a night on the town or want to stay in this Valentine’s Day, you deserve to have a day of self-care and love. At Nabila K, we have lifestyle and beauty products that we believe can help you look and feel your best. Here are six self-care tips to help you relax and spend some much-needed time on your own self-care routine.

1. Light Up a Scent You Love

Surrounding yourself with scents that you love will immediately put you into a better headspace. In fact, scents can stimulate your mood and even trigger nostalgic memories.

If that sounds good to you, we have scents like cedarwood, Heart de Provence, Ocean Tempest, and Jasmine & Honey that help you relax while enjoying a beautiful scent all around you. Whether you’re prepping for a date night or just want to light candles while you soak in the bathtub, these are excellent options.

2. Take Time on Your Skin Before You Head Out

If you’re putting on makeup and feel like your skin looks dull, it might be time to look into getting your healthy glow back. Using activated charcoal helps detoxify and illuminate your skin, while rice and evening primrose or rose and aloe will help cleanse, soothe, and balance it.

The Nabila K Luxury Kit #1 has all these helpful extracts as well as a gentle brown sugar scrub you can use to scrub away dead, dry skin.

3. Journal Your Feelings

Getting your feelings down on paper can help you feel better when you’ve had a bad day or even help you manifest your hopes and dreams. Carry a small notebook with you to jot down ideas, or use a larger notebook to write down how you feel while you’re bathing or relaxing at home.

4. Nourish Your Skin Overnight

Once you’re home from a date or when you settle in for the evening, you may want to consider nourishing your skin with a restorative night cream. The “I Am Here” night cream has aloe, rose, and sage to moisturize your skin, provide it with maximum hydration, and rejuvenate it overnight.

5. Choose Colors That Make You Happy

Valentine’s Day makes many people feel they have to look their absolute best. If you are concerned about your makeup or skincare, remember that you just need to wear what makes you feel beautiful. Choose that daring red lipstick or go with a soft nude. Whatever you choose should make you feel confident and happy.

6. Get Organized

Finally, get organized. If you’ll be leaving home and want to make sure you have makeup with you, keep a little lip gloss or lipstick with you in your purse. Don’t forget a debit or credit card, and set everything you need by the door. Good organization reduces your stress level and makes sure you’re prepared for your night out.

These are six self-care tips to help you feel confident, secure, and comfortable this Valentine’s Day. Whether you stay home and relax, head out with friends, or go on a date, these six self-care tips will help you on your way to a wonderful evening.