What is 'Micromancing'? The new dating trend might just win you love this Valentine’s Day

As Valentine’s Day approaches, a new dating trend is sweeping the romance scene, and it’s all about small but meaningful gestures. Dubbed "micromancing," this fresh take on love is quickly gaining traction, with relationship experts urging singles and couples alike to embrace it.

Gone are the days when love had to be declared with extravagant bouquets, grand dinner dates, or elaborate getaways. Instead, micromancing is all about the little things—a well-timed meme, a thoughtfully shared playlist, or even an inside joke that sparks a smile. And, according to relationship guru Anna Williamson, these tiny tokens of affection could be the key to winning hearts in 2025.

Big Love in Small Moments

Williamson, a celebrity life coach and the founder of The Relationship Place app, describes micromancing as a subtle but powerful way to express affection.


“From embracing the cringe, the PDAs, and the rom-coms, romance is making a comeback for 2025,” she explains. “Over half of British women are self-proclaimed romance lovers, and a lack of romance is having a real detrimental effect on their dating lives.”

But romance doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Williamson argues that people are now realizing that the "little things"—thoughtful messages, random compliments, and small daily affirmations—have a much bigger impact than a dramatic Valentine’s Day surprise.

While some have enthusiastically embraced micromancing as a genuine way to nurture love, others are skeptical, questioning whether small gestures are simply rebranded bare minimum effort.

“I’m here for the cute little gestures,” one woman commented on Williamson’s Instagram poll. “They mean far more to me than grand displays or expensive gifts.”

But not everyone is convinced. One critic sarcastically responded, “So the bare minimum has a name now? Got it.”

Despite the debate, micromancing seems to be resonating with modern daters. The trend reflects a shift towards more sustainable, everyday romance, rather than relying on occasional extravagant displays of love.

Whether you’re single, in a new relationship, or have been with your partner for years, micromancing offers a refreshing perspective on love. This Valentine’s Day, instead of breaking the bank on roses and fine dining, why not send a cute meme, recall an inside joke, or curate a playlist of songs that remind you of your partner?

As Williamson puts it, “You don’t need to send a massive expensive bunch of flowers—just a thoughtful, small gesture can be enough to make someone feel loved.”

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it might just be the perfect time to find out.