Fun & Frugal Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day can come with pressure - for love and for money. However, there are many ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day that are romantic, meaningful, and not complete bank account busters. I’m a huge proponent of finding balance and celebrating special occasions so don’t fear, I’m not going to recommend that you light some candles and mix up a pot of Kraft Dinner (unless that’s how you want to celebrate, which is totally ok too!)Here are a few fun and frugal ideas:Meals
- Skip the crowded restaurant meal and make a fancy meal together or order a multi-course meal from a meal prep service or local restaurant. Splurge on a bottle of wine or two (chances are it will still be less than the restaurant prices) and set yourselves in your most romantic location at home - candlelit dinner for two, in front of the fireplace, or on the patio wrapped in blankets.
- Go for dinner on the Thursday or Friday night to avoid set menus (which some restaurants have on special occasions).
- Have dinner at home and then treat yourselves by going out for drinks and dessert.
- Go out for a late lunch and then later on in the evening while everyone else is dining, go out for a long walk in your favorite neighborhood, go skating, or enjoy desserts and wine at home.
GiftsFor gifts, your best bet in making an impact is always going to be the thought you put into it, not how much you spend on it.
- The classic gift on Valentine’s Day is flowers (they don’t have to be expensive) and pairing them with a heartfelt and well worded card makes the gesture that much grander.
- Make your significant other his/her favorite dessert (or meal if you’re feeling ambitious).
- Don’t get fancy chocolates, get his/her favorite chocolates.
- Send your significant other texts or e-mails every hour that start with “I love you because…”
- If you have children, make a video for your spouse with your kids (ex. have them answer questions like: “my favorite thing about mommy/daddy is…”; “I love mommy/daddy because…”; “if mommy/daddy was a superhero, who would s/he be?”)
- Get crafty and write a card instead of buying one.
Article by Jessica Alen, MeVest Contributor