Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! While it’s a day to celebrate love, this holiday doesn’t have to break the bank. Just because the average consumer spends almost $200 on Valentine’s Day, doesn’t mean you have to!* If you’ve found yourself in a last-minute scramble for the perfect Valentine’s Day plans but don’t want to burn a hole in your wallet, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with some creative and budget-friendly ideas to make this day special without overspending. But before we dive into these money saving ideas, let’s first share how Valentine’s Day came to be what it is today.
How Did Valentine’s Day Start?
Valentine’s Day has a history rooted in both ancient Roman traditions and Christian legends.
The ancient Roman fertility festival Lupercalia, celebrated from February 13 to 15, influenced what we know today, as Valentine’s Day. During this festival, men would draw names of women from a jar, and they’d be paired for the rest of the festival.
Later on, St. Valentine, a Roman priest during the third century, became associated with the day due to his defiance of Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriages for young men. Legends suggest he performed secret marriages and sent a note signed “from your Valentine” before his execution.
Over the centuries, Valentine’s Day evolved into a celebration of love and affection, with the exchange of cards and tokens becoming popular. In the 20th century, commercialization, especially with the mass production of greeting cards, further shaped the modern celebration into what we now know it as. Today, Valentine’s Day is marked by expressions of love through cards, flowers, and special gestures. As you’ll soon learn in this blog, special gestures can come in all shapes, sizes, and even price points!
Valentine’s Day Gifts Under $20
If you’re trying to stick to a budget of $20, there are still plenty of great options to choose from! Consider options like a potted plant, a mini gift basket with their favorite snacks, personalized keychains or engraved accessories, or thoughtful items such as a book or a scented candle.
Affordable Flowers for Valentine’s Day
For the best deals, try to look for in-season flowers such as carnations, roses, and tulips. You can look for deals at your local flower markets or grocery stores. Consider creative alternatives like paper flowers or origami arrangements for a cost-effective yet thoughtful floral gesture. Another creative, yet affordable idea is making your own custom flower arrangement. DIY flower arrangements can save you a lot of money as custom arrangements are typically very pricey when purchased from a florist. Click here* to see how this person created her own custom arrangement for only $22 using flowers from Trader Joe’s. © If you don’t have a vase at home, try checking your local thrift store! You’ll be surprised at what you can find.
Affordable Jewelry for Valentine’s Day
Look for simple and elegant pieces like a charm bracelet or stud earrings. Consider handmade jewelry from local artisans or look for sales or discounts at affordable jewelry stores to find the perfect piece that fits your budget.
Affordable Romantic Dinner Recipes for Valentine’s Day
There are tons of great dinner recipes that don’t cost an arm and a leg! Consider preparing pasta dishes with homemade sauce and a side of garlic bread, hosting a DIY pizza night with personalized toppings, or creating a fondue experience with chocolate for dessert. All of these options are sure to create a romantic, yet budget-friendly dining experience.
As we gear up for Valentine’s Day, let’s chat about some last-minute money saving ideas that’ll make your celebration special without going overboard with the spending. Ready for some budget-friendly fun? Let’s dive in!
Last-Minute Money Saving Ideas
If you’re tight on funds and time, check out these last-minute money saving ideas for your valentine.
Homemade Delights:
Instead of splurging on an expensive dinner at a fancy restaurant, consider whipping up a homemade meal together. Cooking together can be a fun and intimate experience, and you’ll save money compared to dining out. Choose a recipe that you both enjoy and turn it into a delightful evening of shared culinary adventures. Did you know our Resources page has some great recipes to choose from? From savory soul food and affordable gluten-free recipes to mouthwatering desserts like pie and chocolate cupcakes, there are plenty of easy and cost-effective recipes to try out on our blog.
DIY Decorations:
Transform your home into a romantic haven without spending a fortune on decorations. Create DIY decorations using items you already have at home, such as fairy lights, candles, and simple heart-shaped crafts. A little creativity can go a long way in creating a romantic atmosphere without emptying your wallet.
Personalized Gifts:
Show your love with thoughtful and personalized gifts. Consider creating a scrapbook of your favorite memories together, making a playlist of songs that mean something special to you both, or writing a heartfelt letter expressing your feelings. Personalized gifts often hold more sentimental value than store-bought ones and may be more budget-friendly.
Outdoor Adventures:
If weather is nice enough, consider choosing an outdoor adventure instead of a costly entertainment venue. Pack a picnic and head to a local park or nature reserve for a romantic day outdoors. Whether it’s a hike, a bike ride, or a simple stroll, spending quality time together in nature can be both memorable and budget-friendly.
Movie Night In:
Skip the expensive movie tickets and create a cozy movie night at home. Choose a few of your favorite movies, prepare some homemade popcorn, and snuggle up on the couch. This intimate setting not only saves money but also allows you to enjoy each other’s company without the distractions of a crowded theater.
Coupon Book:
Create a personalized coupon book with redeemable coupons for acts of love or thoughtful gestures. Whether it’s a free massage, a chore you’ll take care of, or a breakfast in bed voucher, these coupons can add a special, personal touch to your Valentine’s Day celebration without costing a dime.
Explore Local Events:
Check out local events happening around Valentine’s Day that won’t break the bank. Many communities host free or low-cost events, such as art exhibitions, live performances, or outdoor concerts. Take advantage of these opportunities to enjoy a memorable experience together without overspending.
This Valentine’s Day, the key is to focus on the thought and effort you put into making the day special rather than the amount you spend. With these last-minute money saving ideas, you can create a memorable and romantic Valentine’s Day without sacrificing your budget. Remember, it’s the love and connection you share that truly make this day special.
For more ways to save on Valentine’s Day, check out some of our other blog posts:
- 5 Valentine’s Day Ideas that Won’t Break the Bank
- 5 Unique and Inexpensive Valentine’s Day Ideas
- 12 Low-Cost Date Night Ideas On A Budget
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