Everybody is worried about their wallet these days, and when it comes to Valentine’s Day there is not an exception. While you want to let those closest to you, know how you really feel, it can come with a hefty price tag. Retailers are in the act as well. Florists raise the prices to accommodate increased demand, along with chocolate makers, and other retailers who sell Valentine themed gifts. However, there is no reason to give up in despair or take out a loan just to celebrate Valentine’s Day. There are plenty of ways that you can still give fun, meaningful gifts without breaking the bank. Here are some cheap Valentine’s Day ideas-
- Make your own-While there are other gifts besides flowers, chocolates and cards, if you are determined to stick with the traditional, you can make your own. Many big box stores sell bouquets of fresh flowers, for a hugely discounted price. You can often buy two bouquets and still not come close to paying retail. If you have a leftover vase, (or again the big box stores sell them cheap), you can make your own bouquet, for a fraction of the cost. If you are unsure of how to do it, then check online for how-to videos or enlist a crafty friend. The same principles apply to making chocolates. While making chocolates is a little more advanced, if you have any cooking skills, you can make your own and impress your special someone. There are several online recipes for yummy chocolates that will take you through the process, step by step. Finally, don’t be afraid to make your own card. Using basic craft materials, from around your house, you can come up with a Valentine card that will be a keepsake. Again, if you are unsure or feel you lack creativity, check online for helpful guides to making your own Valentines.
- Think outside of the box-Perhaps your Valentine would like something done around the house for their Valentine’s Day gift. Arranging photos in a binder, painting a wall (or the entire room), or even setting up a spring herb garden, can all be done affordable. Sometimes the best gift is what you can do for someone, rather then what you can buy them.
- Have some fun-This is a holiday that is all about fun. Get some construction paper and cut out 365 hearts. On each heart, write a special sentiment, make a coupon, or write down a favorite memory. Then put all of the hearts in a empty jar. Then each day for the next year, you and your sweetie, can pull out a heart and have a whole year of love! For another fun gift, head to the dollar store and find the toy aisle. You will then choose toys that illustrate the way you feel. For example-You can attach a note to a toy compass that reads, “I’d be lost without you!” or put a note a on toy watch that says, “Time stops when I’m not with you.” Use your creativity to let your sweetie know how you feel about them.
- Stay out of the restaurant-Another big budget item on Valentine’s Day is heading out to a restaurant. Restaurant managers like everyone else, anticipate a higher demand on Valentine’s Day and in response raise their prices. You can still have a special meal with your love, if you plan ahead. A picnic, indoor barbeque, or even pizza making party can be fun. Choose foods that you know your special someone loves, and they will appreciate that you made the effort. If you don’t want to go to the effort of making an entire meal, focus on finger foods: cheese and crackers, strawberries and cream, and perhaps a little chocolate bite, from the bakery. Remember that its all about celebrating your love, so a big, heavy meal is not required.