Your Guide to Valentine’s Day, Especially When Things Are Still New

With Valentine’s Day approaching, many daters are wondering what to say to matches, what the holiday means for them this year, and how to avoid coming across as “cringe,” especially with a new relationship. According to Hinge’s latest Gen Z D.A.T.E. (Data, Advice, Trends, and Expertise) Report, one of the most meaningful things you can share before February 14 isn’t a perfectly composed text or a big gesture. It’s your voice.

Voice Notes are quickly becoming one of Gen Z’s favorite ways to connect with each other on a deeper level as they build momentum early on. 

• Hinge’s data shows that 35% of Gen Z daters (and 39% of Gen Z men) want to receive more Voice Notes from the people they’re talking to. 
• A third (33%) of Gen Z say that Voice Notes make them feel more able to connect with the person they’re dating.
• In 2025, there was a 34% increase in Voice Notes sent on Hinge between February 1 through February 14, compared to the same time period in 2024.

“Valentine’s Day has a way of amplifying uncertainty in early dating,” says Logan Ury, Hinge’s Lead Relationship Scientist (she/her). “Voice notes help cut through that by adding tone, warmth, and effort. Hearing someone’s voice makes the connection feel more human, without turning it into a big, defining conversation.”

And that matters, because Valentine’s Day is often the first moment between two daters where expectations and communication styles come into focus. People ask themselves questions like, “How do I bring this up? What does this day mean for us? Am I doing too much or too little?”

To help navigate these moments with ease, Logan is sharing her guidance on how to use Voice Notes ahead of Valentine’s Day and answering some of the most common questions daters have around the holiday.

Sending Voice Notes Before Valentine’s Day

Q: What should I say in a Valentine’s Day Voice Note?
Logan: Keep it simple and sincere. Mention something you’re looking forward to, reference an inside joke, or clearly but casually share your availability or plans. Remember: you don’t need a script. Being warm and clear matters more than saying the “perfect” thing.

Q: How do I bring up Valentine’s Day when we’ve just started dating?
Logan: Use a Voice Note as a vibe check. Share that you’re enjoying getting to know them and are open to celebrating the day together. Keeping it light and honest with a Voice Note like:

“Hey, Valentine’s Day is coming up, and I wasn’t sure how you feel about it. Want to talk about what would feel fun for both of us?” Naming it early prevents assumptions and gives you both a chance to align.

Q: Should I send a Voice Note on Valentine’s Day if it’s still fresh, and we’re not seeing each other that day?
Logan: Yes, if it feels genuine. A short Voice Note is a low-pressure way to acknowledge Valentine’s Day and show your interest, without creating pressure. You’re saying, “I’m thinking of you,” not “This has to mean more than it does.”

Valentine’s Day and Early Dating

Q: Is a first date on Valentine’s Day a good idea?
Logan: It depends on the vibe. For some people, the energy is fun and flirty. For others, it adds unnecessary pressure. If you’re unsure, suggest meeting earlier in the week instead. Keep expectations realistic.

Q: How soon is too soon to celebrate Valentine’s Day if we’ve already had a few dates?
Logan: Don’t let the calendar rush the relationship. Ask yourself: Have you been seeing each other consistently? Is there clear mutual interest? Do you like where things are heading? Let the relationship, not the holiday, set the pace.

Q: How do I communicate my expectations on what I want when it’s still early?
Logan: Share what would feel good for you without framing it as a demand. For example:

“I’m not looking for anything extravagant, but I’d love to acknowledge the day in a small way if you’re up for it.” The goal is to understand each other.

Q: What if we don’t agree on how we celebrate?
Logan: Misalignment around Valentine’s Day isn’t a sign you should end things. Instead, think of it as a chance to check in and get to know each other more. It’s very possible that you’re on the same page about each other, even if you’re not on the same page about the holiday. Don’t jump to conclusions about what their plans mean about the two of you. Valentine’s Day really can mean different things to different people! Then work together to find a compromise that honors what each of you wants. 

Being Single on Valentine’s Day 

Q: What if I don’t have a date for Valentine’s Day?
Logan: I like Valentine’s Day, because it’s one of the only days of the year where we celebrate romantic relationships. But let’s be honest, going out for Valentine’s Day can also mean spending a lot of money on an overpriced, crowded restaurant. If you don’t have a date this February 14th, don’t stress. It can be just as fun to spend it with friends or by yourself. Here are some suggestions on how to spend the day:

• With friends:
  • Host a dinner party for other single friends. 
  • Have a game night in.
  • Plan a group activity, such as a workout class, trivia night, or a casual bar night.
• Solo:
  • Order in and watch your favorite movie.
  • Pour yourself a bubble bath and read that book that’s been on your list.
  • Make that recipe you saved on Instagram but haven’t tried yet. 

The Takeaway
However you’re spending Valentine’s Day, whether you’re in a relationship, newly dating, or happily single, clear and kind communication goes a long way. And if there’s someone you’re interested in, a short, warm Voice Note can be a simple way to show effort and express interest.