Love is in the air and let’s face it. We could all use a little romance these days, and with Valentine’s Day upon us, this is your chance to spoil that special someone in your life. According to studies, some spend nearly $200 or more on Valentine’s Day gifts, but you could spend even more this year with the cost of inflation. The good news is there are several Valentine’s Day ideas that you can accomplish on a budget and still sweep your loved one off their feet. So, forget the overpriced flower bouquet and expensive dinner reservations. Time to let your creativity loose!
Valentine’s Day Ideas
Keep reading for five Valentine’s Day ideas that will leave your partner swooning without breaking the bank.
Creative Food Boards
Food boards are easy and delicious, and with some creativity, your partner will never be able to deny your cuteness. You can go the traditional route with different meats and cheese or make a dessert board or butter board. Are you dating a vegetarian? Try a hummus board!
For dessert, try making some homemade treats like heart-shaped cookies or chocolate-covered strawberries. Pair it with a nice bottle of wine and you’ve just made the perfect date night in!
DIY Wine Tasting
Speaking of wine, we suggest your very own wine-tasting date for V-Day!
For just the two of you, pick a few wines within your budget that you have been dying to try and give it a go…slowly. Remember, this is a tasting! Pair the wines with a fabulous homemade dinner (see below) and let the conversation flow. You both will be feeling great in no time.
Another option: make it a party! To keep it budget-friendly, everyone can bring one bottle of vino to the party. Then, step it up a notch and make it a blind taste test, mixing up inexpensive bottles of wine with middle-of-the-road ones. Finally, give your guests wine-tasting scorecards so they can keep track of their likes and dislikes with each wine.
If wine isn’t your thing, you can taste-test craft beer from local breweries.
Love-filled Custom Photo Book
For those with more sentimental partners, this idea is the gift that keeps on giving!
Now is the time to put those camera phone photos to good use. Photo books are the perfect way to take a walk down memory lane. Several sites offer quick and easy photo books. Also, be on the lookout for discount codes that can cut costs by 50%.
Remember, while a picture is worth a thousand words, don’t forget to add captions! This is where the magic happens. Under a few pictures, take the time to type out a memory or something you love about your partner. It will take your photo book from “Aw, how nice” to “Oh my goodness, I think I’m going to cry” in seconds.
Homemade Dinner with Love
Making a dinner reservation at your favorite restaurant may seem easy, but after drinks, appetizers, the main course, dessert, and a tip, your night of romance could quickly take an expensive turn. Instead, a delicious home-cooked dinner can be just as great… and a fraction of the cost. Making dinner together can also add to the romance!
Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe is an easy dish that doesn’t need a ton of ingredients or require you to be an expert in the kitchen. Pair it with a nice white wine and a side salad for a complete meal.
Flowers on a Budget
For many, Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without flowers. So, if roses are the way you want to say “I Love You” then consider these options to save some money.
Check out Sam’s Club, Costco, or your local grocery store. The flowers here are beautiful. If you have an older vase at home (look under your sink), you can save even more money and buy only the flowers. Then, decorate your vase with a pretty bow, add a sweet note, and you’re good to go!
Never think you have to spend a fortune to show someone you care. A little bit of thought and effort can go a long way. With the tips above, Valentine’s Day can be filled with love and romance without financial stress.
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