With everything going on in the world, we could all use a little shot of positivity to lift our spirits from time to time. If you’re looking for a unique and fun gift idea for someone special for Valentine’s Day, consider making a personalized pick-me-up box for them. In today’s post, I’ve got step-by-step instructions and a free template and printable to get you started.

This post was originally published in February 2021 and updated in January 2024.

What is a pick-me-up box?

A pick-me-up box is a little box of positivity that you fill with happy thoughts. You can include memories, love notes, pictures, positive quotes, and inspirational messages. Whenever the recipient needs a little boost or “pick-me-up” in their day, they pull a card from the box. It’s a special and personal gift that will keep you in their thoughts. And it only takes a few hours and some simple supplies to make.

On New Year’s Eve, I gave my daughters these pick-me-up boxes that I made for them. I filled them with a mix of family pictures and memories, quotes from their favourite Disney and other movies, and motivational quotes. They loved them.

How to make your own pick-me-up box

What you’ll need

First, you’ll need to gather a few supplies.

• Card-stock paper.
• Something to store the cards in. I used clear plastic boxes designed to store trading cards. You could also use index card boxes, or any other decorative gift box or tin. Another option is to store the cards in an envelope.
• Microsoft Word.
• A printer.
• Scissors.
• A selection of pictures, quotes, messages. To get you started, I’ve put a few pages together that you can download and print. Pinterest is a great source for inspirational quotes if you need ideas. Or, just go through your family photos.

If you’re creative and have neat handwriting, you could handwrite messages on the cards instead of using a printer. Honestly, anything goes! Use your imagination and have fun with it.

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Putting the boxes together

• First, download and print my free printable of quotes to get started. Click the image below to get the download.

• Next, download my blank Pick-Me-Up Box Word template you can use to add your own cards. Click the image to grab the download.

• Now you’re ready to add your quotes and pictures into the template. This is the part that takes the most time. Organizing the content ahead of time will speed things up.

• Print the cards, then cut them and place them in the box.

• If you wish, personalize the card for the box lid with your handwritten message.

• Put a nice bow on the box and you’re all set.

More Valentine’s gift ideas

If you’re looking for other affordable and sustainable Valentine’s Day gift ideas, check out 14 eco-friendly Valentine’s gifts to fit your budget.

I’d love to hear what you think of the pick-me-up box. Tell me your thoughts below.