last updated February 14, 2008
Valentine's Day On A BUDGET
For most couples, Valentine's Day is a Romantic and exciting day to think about life and love. And for many of us that means buying an expensive gift for our partners, after all "diamonds are a girl's best friend" right? But for the cash strapped individual and those looking to get out of debt, Valentine's Day is just another expense that keeps us from getting ahead in our personal finances.
According to CNNMoney the average amount we spend on Valentine's Day is $120. Tufts University says men spend $218 on average and women spend $146. Regardless of the exact amount, one thing is for certain; the retailers and credit card companies have another holiday right after Christmas to love!
But if you are on a tight budget, looking to get out of debt, or just plain fed up with the commercialization involved with Valentine's Day, here are a few gift ideas that say "I love you" without cleaning you out. They may even improve your love life!
- Write a poem or intimate message to your sweetheart and include it in the card you give him or her. You would be amazed at the reaction you get when the words you present are your own. Of course this will require you to sit down for a while, dedicate some time, any really put you thoughts to paper.
- Along the same line, a great gift idea would be to write your sweetheart 365 messages of love on a flip calendar so they are reminded of your feelings every day of the year - instead of that one lonely Valentine's Day!
- You could include a certificate in your card that entitles your sweetheart to 5 full body massages, payable upon demand. This intimate gift will do wonders for your relationship! The certificate could also be adjusted to include car washes, laundry, or whatever your sweetheart could use a break from.
- How about writing and including a song with your greeting? Again, because the words and the sentiment are your won, they are guaranteed to get a positive response.
- And of course, a home cooked meal, prepared by you would be a great idea and a money saver to boot!
If you really feel the need to spend money and buy something, here are a few ideas for inexpensive alternatives to the normal Valentine's Day gift giving:
- Give your significant other a plant instead of a dozen roses that will die in a couple of weeks. Plants can be purchased inexpensively and dressed up real nice with ribbons, bows, and balloons. A simple or homemade card with your personal feelings can top the whole thing off.
- How about giving a small teddy bear with some candy attached? This is sentimental gift that is sure to please.
- A cake from the local bakery is a great idea, very inexpensive, and a great gift if your sweetheart has a sweet tooth.
- How about giving a break from cooking? Bring home dinner home instead of having to cook, and don't forget the inexpensive wine; many wines now rate highly at a lower price.
Valentine's Day does not have to cost a fortune. It actually has more meaning when gifts are from the heart. These inexpensive and free gifts are especially great if both you and your sweetheart are on the same page financially.
So take a step to turn around what would otherwise be another expensive holiday, and you just might find an emotional boost that strengthens your relationship!
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