Valentine’s Day on A Budget

Valentine’s Day is one of the most romantic times of the year. It can be a challenge to narrow down what you want to do from all the wonderful Valentine’s Date Night Ideas.

It’s all about showing the person you love that you well, love them. For better or worse, many of us choose to express that love with our wallets. In fact, according to US News, in 2015, Valentine’s Day retail spending surged to a record-breaking $18.9 billion! This Valentine’s Day, show that special someone you care without breaking the bank using some of the following ideas.

DIY Gifts

Save money by making that special someone a gift. Thanks to the Internet, you don’t have to be a DIY diva or a ninja with a glue gun to make an amazing present. For example, if you aren’t confident in your crafting skills, a Mason jar project like this “I Love You to Pieces” idea can be perfect.

Here are a few other easy and inexpensive DIY gifts to consider:

If you’re looking for something a bit more complicated, Pinterest is an awesome resource for inspiration.

Printables

One big cost on Valentine’s Day is the card. Think about it, you can pay anywhere from $1 to $10 for a card, and what does your Valentine do with it after the 14th? Let’s face it, he or she probably throws it away. That’s like throwing cash straight into the garbage can. Save money this Valentine’s Day with printable cards. Do a quick Google or Pinterest search for “free printable Valentine’s Day cards” and you’re sure to turn up a slew of good options (like these). Once you have your printable card, take the time to write your own heartfelt message in it.

Experiences

Experiences can be an inexpensive Valentine’s Day gift idea that pays off in a big way since research has shown that experiences are more memorable and satisfying than material items. When you hear the word “experience” you may immediately think of expensive trips to tropical locales but that isn’t necessarily accurate. Experiences can be little things. Like a fake vacation (for real, this is one of my husband’s favorites)

Or you can try this list of 50 more romantic home date night ideas for Valentine’s Day.

You could also stay in and cook together. Try making a new dish, like this heart shaped pizza, with that special someone; the two of you will likely have a blast, remember the evening for years to come, and save money.

Inexpensive Gifts

If you feel that a store bought gift is a must, consider something inexpensive and practical for that special someone. Getting him something he actually needs will help the gift stand out in his mind. Need some ideas? Here are 75 stocking stuffers for men that you could easily repurpose for Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about spending a chunk of change. In fact, it will be more memorable and have more meaning if you give a gift from the heart. In other words, this year, you are encouraged to “cheap out” at Valentine’s Day!

Kelli Bhattacharjee, the owner of FreebieFindingMom.com, is a former investment professional with nearly ten years of experience. She now pursues her passion of showing others how to live a frugal yet fabulous life (yep, it’s possible) via her savvy financial blog. Join her on Pinterest, Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and You Tube.

Nee more Valentine’s Day Ideas? Check out these 50 Thrifty Valentine’s Date night ideas