How are you spending your Valentine’s Day? Whether you’re spending a romantic night on the town or chilling with family or friends, you can still spread the love in a unique way this year. With Americans spending billions on Valentine’s Day, it is easy to want to brush off the holiday as a commercialized money grab.
But Valentine’s Day can still be about meaningful messages and sharing your warm affections.
You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on your loved one. Spread the love with these one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day gifts and ideas:
Make Your Own Valentines
Anyone can go to their local grocery store or gas station and pick up a last-minute “Holy cow it’s Valentine’s Day already” gift. Avoid the frantic holiday rush for chocolates, flowers, and other gifts by making handmade Valentine’s Day cards or gifts.
Channel your inner artist and visit social media sites like Pinterest for inspiration. There are craft ideas for all skill levels, from expert to novice. Making your own gift shows your creative side and leaves a lasting impact to your lucky loved one.
An example of an easy DIY Valentine’s gift is adorable fabric hearts. To make these, you’ll just some felt, fabric, ribbon, and a few more items house that can be found around the house. If you’re running low, visit a craft or thrift store to stock up on supplies. Even if you buy several different patterns, you’ll still save enough money on this inexpensive idea to bestow your handmade hearts to everyone on your list.
Throw a Valentine’s Day Party
If you’re throwing a party for just two, or even all of your friends, you can celebrate Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank. Decorate your house with handmade hearts and make customized coffee mugs you can fill with yummy chocolates or homemade treats.
For food and snacks, invite everyone to bring their favorite meal or stick with a “sweet treat” potluck meaning all of your guests bring a delicious Valentine’s Day dessert. (Trust us: your taste buds will thank you!) For beverages, buy an inexpensive punch bowl instead of serving separate drinks.
Keep all of your guests entertained by breaking out an old board game you have. If you have a karaoke system or video game system lying around the house collecting dust, break it out for the party and watch everyone have a blast. Don’t have any of these party supplies? No sweat. Stop by your local thrift store for frugal party entertainment.
Do Date Night on the Cheap
Under normal circumstances, Valentine’s Day can cost an arm and a leg. But expensive dinners, jewelry, and roses are not the only way to show love. Try something different this year. Find your city’s event calendar and look for events like poetry readings, comedy shows, or jazz festivals. These events are almost always cheaper than spending Valentine’s Day at an expensive restaurant while providing a perfect time to bond.
Cooking at home is also another smart way to save money and show love. You don’t have to be Wolfgang Puck to make a deliciously romantic dinner. Take your sweetheart’s favorite everyday meal like spaghetti and dress it up with new spices or sides. Valentine’s dinner served with love!
By making crafts at home and spending time with loved ones, you can make lasting memories while saving money.
