One of my favorite episodes of Friends was the year that Chandler and Monica decided to make Valentine’s Day gifts for each other. Although each character failed miserably at their task the idea was well intentioned and generally good. Valentine’s day can be costly. In fact according to abcgo.com the average spend on this Hallmark holiday is about 126 dollars. Of course not everyone has this kind of money to splash around. However, looking cheap isn’t the way to impress the one that you love. In this article I’ll offer tips on how to have a great Valentine’s day without breaking the bank or looking miserly.
Take Advantage of the After Christmas Sales
Valentine’s day is a mere 50 days after Christmas. Get out there and hit the sales. Everything from clothes, perfumes and jewelry will be marked down loads to make way for new stock. If you plan a head you can pick up something really nice for your loved one. Christmas sales are also great for picking up things like gift wrap, chocolates, candles and decorations. Luckily, the 2 holidays use the color red so gift boxes, enveloped, and other small decorative items will be available at a fraction of the normal cost.
Scope out the Dollar Stores
If you leave things too late and the after Christmas sales are of no use, try the Dollar Stores. The products will range in variety and quality. However, most dollar stores are great sources for things like stationary, cards, gift wrap and paper. Some sell lesser known brands of bath soaps and shower gels. Have a look around you might be surprised at what you can find.
Make Dinner for your Loved One
This is a great idea for several reasons. The first being that you’ll save a fortune. Restaurants are not cheap and most are more than happy to jack up their prices on a day like Valentine’s Day. The second reason is restaurants can be crowded. In fact unless you make your reservation just after New Years Day the chances are good that Subway or McDonald’s are going to be your only options. Finally, it shows thought. Taking the time to cook for the person you love is a lovely gesture even if you are not a master chef.
Be Poetic
Hand write a poem inside a Valentine’s Day card. If you can write poetry great if now borrow from the greats such as William Shakespeare, Lord Bryon, or others. The important thing is to hand write it and send it through snail mail. The computer age is brought many advances but we have lost that personal touch. A simple gesture such as this will go a long way.
Make a CD of Favorite Songs
This is a great idea and its simple. However, don’t make the same mistake Chandler from Friends did. Make sure the ex-girlfriend’s voice is not on their.
