As a hopeless romantic extraordinaire, the better part of my existence has been spent devouring romance novels, films, and songs. I've carefully curated my own playlists and compiled a few of my favorite love ballads that you should add to yours for Valentine's Day. These songs perfectly touch on the unique experiences and emotions that come with being smitten, and help set the mood for you and your S/O's indoor picnic date.
1. Wild, by Troye Sivan
My boy Troye has a way of illustrating all the nuances of a blooming infatuation in a way that makes you nostalgic for the days of middle school crushes and unrequited love. For those who have just begun a new relationship, this song's for you! While the two of you are setting up the blanket fort for your indoor picnic, play this in the background. It has a playfully romantic tone about it that will be perfect for the pillow fight that will likely ensue.
2. Dug my heart, by BØRNS
One of my personal favorites, and another one for those at the beginning of a relationship, "Dug My Heart" is an acknowledgment of that flashpoint attraction that started it all. If you're looking for a cute way to incorporate this one into your date, while the two of you are at home making dinner together, grab a giant wooden spoon and serenade your partner. Take a page from Borns' book and let your S/O know that the first time you ever laid eyes on them, they dug your heart a grave.
3. Certain Things, by James Arthur
James Arther is best known for capturing all of our hearts with "Say You Won't Let Go", and I promise he'll manage to do it again with "Certain Things". If you're looking for inspiration to help you draft a thoughtful note to give to your other half for your V-Day date, look no further. This single reminds us of the little things -both perfections and flaws- that keep you coming back for more of the one you love, and sparks the desire to let them know just how much you adore every part of them.
4. Gorgeous, by X Ambassadors
At some point after the honeymoon phase of a relationship, there will be a single moment where all of the things that you love about the person that you're with and the way they make you feel, hits you the way it did in the beginning. You come to the realization that your partner is amazing for how you feel about them, but even more so for how they make you feel about yourself. Add this song to your Valentine's Day playlist and save it for a moment when that feeling hits you all over again, let it play and just take in your S/O while they're not looking. It'll make you feel you're in your own romantic movie -with a great soundtrack.
5. Work song, Hozier
Last but not least, and my personal favorite, "Work Song." Hozier's soulful vocals and the steady rhythm create depth and a sensation of the intense and enduring power of love. I highly recommend for saving this slow jam for a slow dance in the middle of the living room at the end of the night. Leave the pillows and blankets from the fort you built strewn across the floor, and just take a moment to take in your partners' presence in the dim lighting of the safe space you created together.
