Week 48: Show Your Love Every Day in December
As the holiday season draws near, it’s time to embrace the magic of giving and show your loved one just how much they mean to you. Inspired by Stephen Arterburn and Carl Dreizler’s 52 Simple Ways to Say I Love You, week 48’s tip is all about creating an “I-Love-You” calendar. Modeled after an Advent Calendar, this thoughtful gesture is designed to make every day in December a celebration of your love.
The Concept: An Advent Calendar of Love
Advent calendars count down the days until Christmas, traditionally revealing a small surprise or treat each day. Why not adapt this idea to express your love? With an “I-Love-You” calendar, you can fill each day with tokens of affection, thoughtful gestures, or small gifts that show your partner how much you cherish them. This personalized twist transforms December into a month-long celebration of your relationship.
Creating Your “I-Love-You” Calendar
Designing your love-filled Advent Calendar can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. Here’s how to get started:
Number the Days: Clearly mark each day in December. If you prefer a shorter version, just count down the 12 days of Christmas.
Choose Your Format: Pick a calendar style that resonates with you and your partner. Options include a traditional hanging Advent calendar, small, numbered boxes, envelopes pinned to a ribbon, or even a digital version for long-distance couples. Pick up a store-bought Advent calendar, take it apart, and cover up the pictures with YOUR pictures, affirmations, symbols, etc.
Customize for Your Love Story: Decorate your calendar with colors, themes, or symbols that reflect your relationship—think photos, inside jokes, or favorite quotes.
Selecting Items for Your Calendar Windows
What goes inside each day’s “window” depends on your creativity and your partner’s preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Words of Affirmation: Write a heartfelt note, a favorite memory, or a reason you love them.
- Small Tokens: Include chocolates, trinkets, or mini ornaments for your tree.
- Acts of Service: Offer coupons for a back rub, breakfast in bed, or a chore-free evening.
- Shared Experiences: Plan date nights, movie marathons, or a snowman-building session.
- Personal Touches: Add items that are meaningful to your partner. Perhaps include a playlist of their favorite songs or a small gift that complements their hobbies.
Making This a December to Remember
To ensure this becomes a cherished memory, consider these tips:
- Plan Ahead: Start brainstorming in November to give yourself plenty of time to gather or create the surprises.
- Be Consistent: Commit to delivering each day’s surprise with love and care.
- End with Impact: Choose a few days at the end of the month to make a real impact. Make December 24th or 25th extra special with a larger gift, a handwritten letter, or an unforgettable romantic gesture. OR, how about making sure to continue through December 31st for real, meaningful impact.
This thoughtful tradition shows your partner how much they’re loved and brings joy and anticipation to your holiday season.
About Chanelle Carlin Weddings
At Chanelle Carlin Weddings, LLC, we believe in creating unforgettable moments that celebrate love in all its forms. Whether it’s crafting a heartfelt, custom wedding ceremony or sharing tips to strengthen your relationship, we’re here to make your journey extraordinary. Stay tuned as we wrap up the year with love and ideas from the 52 Simple Ways to Say I Love You series.
Embrace the spirit of the season and show your love with an “Advent Sure.” Happy December!
Chanelle Carlin is Your Celebrant for LifeTM. She is an ordained minister and professional wedding officiant with a passion for celebrating love and life. Chanelle also coaches couples, believing that every moment of life and love deserves to be cherished. Chanelle works closely with couples who have cultivated strong relationships and are ready to embark on the journey of marriage with a unique and unforgettable ceremony. As your Celebrant for LifeTM, she is dedicated to honoring all of your special milestones. Chanelle is also the host of Now You May Kiss (TM) Podcast. Her podcast focuses on your bespoke, outdoor elopement or intimate wedding Ceremony in the Pacific Northwest. She lives with her family in rural Okanogan County, Washington. You can visit Chanelle at www.chanellecarlin.com or on social media on FB, LI and IG.