According to Gary Chapman, Ph.D., in his New York Times Best Selling book “The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate”, people instinctively give love the way they would like to receive it. And as far as the love languages go, there are just but five of them. Acts of service, gift-giving, physical touch, quality time and words of affirmation. Only we know the answers to our own and hopefully our loved ones, because what better way to show your love and appreciation? Understanding your partner in this way can help foster better communication and harmony. So to avoid getting lost in translation when it comes to showing your affection, Vogue Singapore has you sorted. And another tip from us? Not every touching gesture or action has to be prompted by an occasion or celebration—after all, the best gifts often lie in the element of surprise.
Acts of service
Actions speak louder than words. This individual tends to feel loved when their significant other recognises and acts on showing that they care. Thoughtful measures taken to help alleviate the stress of daily life are highly appreciated. They say time is the most valuable commodity and by contributing your own time and effort for this person, it conveys the ultimate “I love you.”
Plan a romantic picnic
Allow your partner to put their feet up and arrange a lovely outing without them having to lift a finger. Order from “the Vineyard Picnic” from Botanico, which not only includes delicious charcuterie and wine but a stylish picnic mat, pillows, foldable table and candlelight to use at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. All you need is a little speaker for some ambience and the rest is taken care of. A way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, so some cheese and a tipple is sure to hit the spot.
Gift a coupon book
All it takes is an empty notebook and a pen to jot down some “coupons” for your better half to cash in when desired. For example, a 30-minute massage, do the dishes, choose the movie, cook tonight’s dinner, get out of jail free card etc. We will leave it up to you to get creative. Cartier offers some stylish stationery to make this present not only playful, but stylish too.
Gift-giving
Some of us feel special when showered with gifts. The heart of it lies not necessarily in the materialistic, but in the meaningfulness of it all. In their eyes, a physical offering communicates something that words cannot express. It’s seen as a demonstration of attentiveness and an investment in the relationship.
Buy a beautiful bunch of blooms
Call it old-fashioned but there’s nothing wrong in opting for some flowers. And if you want to take it to that next level, you could order what could be seen as floral art by Grandiflora Singapore + Culina at Como Dempsey. The bouquets are created from freshly acquired blooms and presented with artistic flair. In short, they are exquisite and each bunch is arranged according to your brief.
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Gift chocolates
Sweets for your sweetheart as it were. Läderach air freights their delectable chocolates from Switzerland to Singapore. From pralines and truffles to gift boxes, these handmade classics are meant for indulgence. The most famous item—the large slabs of FrischSchoggi (fresh chocolate) are handcrafted without additives or preservatives by artisans in Switzerland.
Physical touch
Affection and intimacy are crucial for this individual. Holding hands, a snuggle in bed, kissing and hugging—these are the hallmarks to making this partner feel secure and seen. Touching over talking if you will. For them, this could be their motto: “hugging is the most beautiful form of communication that allows a person to know that they matter.”
Splash out on beautiful lingerie
Luxury Italian lingerie La Perla will set hearts racing. Expertly crafted pieces made by women for women, ensure that the female silhouette is accentuated and highlighted. Whether you’re buying for yourself for your partner’s enjoyment, or maybe you’re buying for her—from lace bralettes, bodysuits and corsets, La Perla has the underthings department well taken care of. The rest is up to you.
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Book a staycation
A cozy hotel bed, away from interruption (except for some room service perhaps?) will surely encourage some canoodling. Historic hotel Raffles Singapore offers spacious suites including a big bath to really connect as a couple. Creating a space to really take time out from the real world and connect with your significant other is made easy at Raffles, particularly with a world famous Singapore Sling in hand.
Quality time
Dedicated focus, minus any distraction is a show of devotion for the “quality time” lover. The gift of being fully present, engaged and listening goes a long way with someone with these values. It may not be the quantity, but the quality of the companionship that counts. After all, your time can be the biggest gift.
Organise a bike ride
Doing something active with your partner not only gets you both out of the house to explore, but allows you to really connect. The burning of calories and release of endorphins are an added bonus! Hello Bicycle stocks a range of stylish wheels from Tokyo Bike to LINUS for your casual biking needs. Throw some snacks into your basket and you have a date ready to go, on the go.
Treat them to a massage
A couples massage leads to relaxation and also helps increase serotonin and dopamine. Where the stresses of daily life can be forgotten and everything slows down. Auriga Spa in the rainforest at Capella Singapore, Sentosa offers retreats and treatments to rejuvenate together. The vitality pool, herbal steam room, ice fountain and services like intuitive wellness massage and muscle release are conducive to a harmonious afternoon with your better half.
Words of affirmation
“Say it with love.” Or perhaps in this case, “literally say you love them!” Using your voice and words to convey how you feel may just be the sweet spot for someone who needs the spoken and written word to feel valued and reassured. Compliments will get you far with this type of lover—especially unsolicited ones.
Gift engraved jewellery
Singapore based label, Made Different Co not only wants to help you commemorate special times, but do it in a meaningful way at an affordable price point. Engraving and personalisation is complementary (on engravable items) to help you put together a one-of-a-kind piece with a word or words that speak loudest to your loved one.
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Create a personalised notebook
At your local Bynd Artisan atelier, you can craft a customised notebook. From choosing the cover textures, to paper refills down to finishing off with a name or favourite quote. While the exterior will showcase bespoke artisanal craftsmanship, we are judging this book by both its cover and what lies inside its pages. Beautiful quotes, love letters and expressions of written praise can work as a great reference point.
