The death of a spouse or significant other is a type of grief many people don’t understand unless they’ve experienced it. It’s an unimaginable thought to lose someone who you loved and shared a life with. The grief is especially heartbreaking during significant holidays and anniversaries that remind you of your loved one.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we created this list of ways you can honor and remember your loved one this Valentine’s Day.

1. Place a Bouquet of Flowers by Their Grave

Visit their gravesite to sit and reflect or share stories with your loved one. You can bring some beautiful flowers to place on their gravesite, such as their favorite flowers or ones with meaning behind them.

For example, you can place red carnations to represent admiration, remembrance, strength, and love. Check out this flower article to see more meanings behind different types of flowers and flower colors.

2. Have a Releasing Ceremony

Many people have ash releasing ceremonies, but you also can have releasing ceremonies in memory of your loved one. Some environmentally-friendly options include wildflower seeds, biodegradable balloons, or bubbles.

3. Write a Song or Poem

Writing is a creative outlet for expressing your thoughts and emotions to create something beautiful. You can write a song or poem about your loved one and how much you miss them. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just something that makes you happy and honors their memory. You can share it with your family and friends or keep it to yourself.

4. Spend the Day Doing Their Favorite Hobby

Doing their favorite hobby is another way to honor their memory. Whether it’s cooking, reading, exercising, or something else, dedicate the day to their favorite pastime.

5. Volunteer at Their Favorite Charity

Another way to spend the day is volunteering at their favorite charity. You can honor their life while making a difference in the lives of others in need.

If you’re not sure where to volunteer, check out VolunteerMatch to find opportunities near you.

6. Donate to Their Favorite Cause

An additional way to honor their memory while helping others is to donate to their favorite cause in their name. Find a charity that reflected their interests, such as if they were passionate about animal rights or helping the homeless.

7. Make a Memory Bear

Memory bears are made from your loved one’s old clothing. It’s a personalized way to always have a piece of your loved one with you. Check out this memory bear article to learn more about how to make them.

8. Cook Their Favorite Dish

If your loved one was an avid cook or baker, make their favorite meal. You can invite family and friends of your loved one over to enjoy the meal and share stories about your loved one.

9. Create a Memorial Photo Craft

If you’re crafty, create a memorial photo craft of your loved one. From a photo wreath to proudly display to a scrapbook filled with memories, there are endless ideas. Check out this DIY photo memento article for more inspiration.

10. Allow Yourself Time Alone to Grieve

Lastly, don’t forget to allow yourself time alone to grieve. It’s important to accept your emotions and not deny yourself a healthy healing journey.

What other ways can you honor and remember a loved one this Valentine’s Day? Share your ideas in the comments!