Lucky 13 Ways to Have a Great Valentine's Day on a Budget
It would be nice to spend indiscriminately, especially on a holiday like Valentine’s Day. But not everyone has the necessary financial situation to go on a spending spree - certainly not right now. The good news is: you can have a great Valentine’s Day without spending a lot of money! Retailers want you to spend your money, but there’s no reason to buy into their hype. And if you’re queer Af, you may not want to. There’s a definitely feeling that V-Day is for the straight & cis & hetero of the world but hell, Love is Love & Love can’t be bought.
Try these inexpensive Valentine’s Day ideas:
Eat dinner at home, but order in drinks and dessert. Forget the reservations and the high cost of a meal on the town - you may not have the option thanks to Lockdown. Cooking a delicious, romantic meal at home is *chef’s kiss*. Who says ordering this rest in is cheating?!
Find a flower option besides roses. Roses cost a small fortune on Valentine’s Day. Find another flower your significant other loves. So many folks don’t like roses. Ask about their favorite flower. But you know that right? You’ve been paying attention.
Stream a few romantic movies and grab a duvet. It’s easy to find a list of romantic movies. You don’t even have to get dressed up. The popcorn is pittance compared to cinema prices (remember those?) You can even talk during the movie.
Have an indoor picnic. Unless you’re in the south, it’s a little cold for an outdoor picnic in February. Clear out a space on the living room floor and have your picnic inside. This is one of my absolute favourite things to do! I recommend watching rollercoaster POVs while you munch.
Use a coupon. A coupon might not go over well on a first or second date. However, if you’ve been together for a while, that awkwardness no longer exists. Both parties realize the saved money could be spent on something else. There’s a bitchtonne of vouchers up for grabs in the run up to V-Day - grab a bargain, go on!
Deliver your own flowers. The florist is more expensive than the grocery store or the farmer’s market. Deliver them yourself and enjoy the smile you receive.
Choose a different date. Valentine’s Day might officially fall on February 14th, but why not consider celebrating the following day. Meal deliveries, flowers, and cards are all significantly less expensive. You can avoid the [virtual] crowds, too.
Write a love letter. Everyone has a sheet of paper and a pen. Take a few minutes and put your romantic thoughts down on paper. It’s free, and you’ll score big points.
Give each other a massage. Pick the music and the massage oils. Light a few candles and turn on some music. Let your fingers do the talking.
Make your own card. There’s no law that states you have to support Hallmark by purchasing a card that costs £4.99. They usually end up in the trash anyway. Make a card this year. It will be remembered forever.
Make it all about breakfast. It’s the most important meal of the day, and the least expensive. Why not go all out for breakfast instead of dinner this year? Lunch is another option.
Make a gift. Make a scrapbook. Create a CD of their favorite songs. It’s the thought that counts.
Set a budget and brainstorm. Sit down together and determine how much you’re willing to spend. See how many ideas you can list that stay within the budget constraint.
Love doesn’t require money. A fun and memorable Valentine’s Day can be enjoyed on a budget. Make a list of inexpensive ideas that will thrill your significant other. Avoid letting financial challenges ruin your holiday.