Every year I look forward to a pretty unique Valentine’s Day tradition: surprising strangers with love songs from their significant others. I spend the week leading up to this holiday memorizing love song after love song, tearing up at how special some of the lyrics are. (Yes, I’m a sappy romantic.)

Then I drive around Orange County with my guitar and pop out at homes and places of work. People I’ve never met get to hear a message from their loved one and then their first dance song, wedding song, or family favorite dedicated to them.

Giant smiles and tears make it obvious how special this gift is to each recipient, but I have to admit that it is also very powerful for me. I find it remarkable that something I love doing can sparks joy in a room that lasts long after I leave.

Music touches the heart in a way words cannot. It’s an honor to be a vessel of love in these moments, and so to everyone who has ever booked me to surprise their loved ones with the gift of song–thank you for that treasured experience. I am eager to do it again next year.

Here’s a little snippet of “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran I learned to surprise a lovely family:

A post shared by Christine Alicia – OC Musician (@christinealiciamusic)

And hey, it’s always a good time to tell the ones you love how special they are to you. Maybe even with a song. 😏 Here’s my reminder (and yours) to let someone you love know how cherished they are today.

Regardless of if you celebrate Valentine’s Day or not, I hope YOU are aware of just how loved you are. By God. By others. And hopefully even by yourself.

💛,

Christine