Love isn’t just about the grand gestures or the picture-perfect moments—it’s about the everyday magic. Even after ten years of marriage, I’ll glance over at Joe on the couch, and my heart still flutters.
We all go through tough relationships—myself included. Most of us know that true love doesn’t always happen right away. But when it does? When you find that person who sees you, loves you, and makes life better just by being in it? That’s something worth celebrating.
And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:
Romance isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you create.
Joe is an amazing gift giver, which is romantic in its own way. He always surprises me with something so thoughtful it makes me tear up. But I’ve also learned not to sit around waiting for romance to happen—I make it happen. Here’s how I keep things fun, fresh, and full of love, even a decade into marriage.
Step 1: Make Him a Custom Valentine’s Song
Nothing melts a man’s heart like hearing a song made just for him. That’s exactly what I did for Joe this year through Songfinch—a website that creates personalized songs based on your love story. You submit details about your relationship, choose the vibe of the song, and within a week, a professional musician turns your words into music. It’s like a love letter, but way more emotional (and easier to replay over and over again).
I’ll be kicking off this blog with the song I made for Joe, and trust me, you’re going to want to do this for your man.
Step 2: Book a Boudoir Shoot for Valentine’s Day
This one is not just for him—it’s for YOU, too.
I did my first boudoir shoot for Joe on our one-year anniversary, and I promised myself I’d do it again for our ten-year, no matter my weight or health. And guess what? The ten-year shoot turned out even better.
Ladies, let me tell you—boudoir is empowering. It reminds you that you’re beautiful, desirable, and worth celebrating. And trust me, when you hand your husband a book full of stunning, confident photos of YOU? He won’t be able to put it down.
And in case you’re wondering—no, boudoir isn’t just for size-zero supermodels. It’s for every woman who wants to feel sexy and confident. And let’s be honest, after ten years of marriage, your man isn’t going to be complaining.
Step 3: Cook a Romantic Valentine’s Dinner (With One Exception)
There’s something special about making a beautiful, thoughtful meal for your person. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the experience, the effort, and the love that goes into it.
Now, there was one exception. Last year, I hired a private chef to make dinner. Fancy, right? But what really surprised me? Joe secretly arranged for a professional piano singer to perform while we ate. Melt. My. Heart.
If you want to go all out, do that. If you’re keeping it intimate at home, here’s my go-to Valentine’s menu:
Starter: Shrimp cocktail with a spicy homemade cocktail sauce
Main Course: Filet mignon with garlic butter, served with truffle mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts
Dessert: Chocolate lava cake (because, duh)
Pair it with a nice bottle of red, and you’ve got yourself a five-star Valentine’s dinner at home.
And if you burn the steak? Just dim the lights, pour another glass of wine, and tell him it’s “charred for extra flavor.”
Step 4: Plan a Couples Massage & Valentine’s Champagne Lunch
Massages aren’t just about relaxation; they’re about connection. There’s something intimate about stepping away from the chaos of life, unwinding together, and just being in the moment.
Book a couples massage, then follow it up with a cozy lunch or champagne and charcuterie. It’s a simple but luxurious way to slow down and reconnect.
And if your husband is like mine and thinks massages are “too fancy” for him? Just remind him there’s food and alcohol waiting at the end. Works every time.
Step 5: Dress the Part—Valentine’s Day Outfits You’ll LOVE
If you know follow me, you know I live for a good themed outfit. Whether you’re going out or staying in, here are my top Valentine’s Day fashion picks from my LTK shop:
Cozy & Cute: Valentine’s sweatshirts & sweaters
Chic Accessories: Dainty heart necklaces & bold statement earrings
JULIE MILES 10% Off using my code: amyplusjoe
For more cool finds, you can visit my previous blog:
My Best Designer Picks and January Highlights Worth Celebrating
Casual Vibes: Trendy hats for a laid-back, effortless look
I’ll link my favorites so you can shop them easily!
Final Thoughts
Our Valentine’s Day Plans This Year!
One thing I’ve learned in my marriage? Romance isn’t about waiting—it’s about doing.
Joe is amazing in so many ways, but grand romantic gestures aren’t his thing. And that’s okay. Because instead of waiting for something magical to happen, I create the magic myself. And guess what? That keeps our love strong.
So this year, I went BIG. I surprised Joe with a weekend trip to Napa!
He was so excited, and honestly, so am I. We used to live in San Francisco, and Napa became our little escape. We fell in love with the vineyards, the scenery, and let’s be real—the wine.
It will be so nice to relive those memories and make new ones.
I can’t wait to share all that happens over the weekend!
(And yes, you know I’ll be documenting it all.)
A Love Note from Scripture
“Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband.” — 1 Corinthians 7:3
Because love isn’t just about feelings—it’s about action.
