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If you’re looking to spend some time with your special someone this Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank, check out these Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Tips.
On Monday I shared with you some romantic winter getaways but sometimes getting away is not an option for Valentine’s Day. Maybe you don’t have the time or it just isn’t realistic for your budget. Believe me, I get it. It really hasn’t been that long since the holiday season ended. Sometimes you don’t want to be excessive. Or you just can’t rationalize paying an upcharge for Valentine’s Day.
I understand all those reasons especially the last one. For the first time in the seventeen years, Derek and I have been together we are actually going to be traveling Valentine’s weekend. Granted we’re leaving the day after V-Day but it’s very unusual. It’s almost a shock to my system. I’m the type of wife who prefers it if my hubby doesn’t buy flowers on Valentine’s Day. I’d rather get them on our anniversary or any other day of the year when there isn’t a huge markup.
Of course, it comes down to more than money. My husband is my valentine every day and honestly, the best gift he can give me is his love and time. I know it sounds a little cheesy but it’s true. I always appreciate the love and thought behind my husband’s gifts but just spending time with him is always the best gift.
I’m sure you feel the same way about your sweetheart. So, if you’re on a quest for romance that costs less check out this list of Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Tips. (The rhyme is a little too much, isn’t it?)
Dine-In
One of the easiest ways to save some dough is to stay at home and eat. This is my favorite way to spend V-Day whether we’re on a budget or not. I know it may seem like it’s no different from any other night but there are so many ways that you can make it special.
You can dress up and eat in your dining room. Tell Alexa to play some romantic music and light some candles. Grab a bottle of wine from Trader Joe’s and make something different for dinner instead of your everyday menu. If you don’t want to do too much cooking, steak and seafood are some of the easiest and quickest meals to make. Steam some veggies or make baked potatoes in the crockpot and throw a salad together ahead of time.
If it’s in your budget and you want to do little to no cooking, get some takeout or hit up the prepared foods section at the grocery store. Just plate it up nice to make it extra special.
If you want something less formal try cooking dinner together. It can be a lot of fun making pizza together at home. Most grocery stores already have premade dough. Trader Joe’s pizza dough is really great and you can grab it while you’re getting the wine.
Movie Night
Pick out a movie ahead of time. Check your streaming subscriptions, Redbox, or my favorite budget-friendly option, your local library! Grab a comfy blanket and curl up on the couch together. If the weather is cool enough, light a fire in the fireplace for extra comfort. You can even have a theme for the evening. If you’re watching a movie set in a specific destination, make a meal from that destination. Pizza will go well with any movie set in New York or Italy.
Keep Dessert Simple
Dessert is almost a necessity when you’re making a special meal but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank by going to the gourmet bakery or candy shop. Get your significant other their favorite ice cream from the grocery store. Better yet, make your own chocolate-dipped strawberries. Many grocery stores have strawberries on sale around Valentine’s Day. It’s strawberry season in Florida right now so keep your eyes peeled for Florida-grown strawberries.
Game Night
If you’re not in the mood for a movie then maybe play one of your favorite games. Chess, monopoly, scrabble, or rummy is a great way to spend the evening together and less stress on your wallet.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Depending on where you live and the weather, you can spend some time outside. Go hiking, biking, to the lake or beach, or ice skating if you please. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the outdoors together.
Look for Free Local Activities
Maybe there’s a festival in town or a museum with free admission. There are some great museums here in Raleigh and it doesn’t cost a thing to tour them. Check to see if there’s a local winery or brewery that offers free tours or tastings. You’ll be surprised at the free activities you can find. Google or check out Facebook events.
Find Deals on Groupon
If your local winery or brewery doesn’t do free tours you may find them discounted on Groupon or Living Social. I’m constantly finding Groupon deals for wineries, breweries, and distilleries here in the Triangle. Of course, there are other discounted activities, too. Activities like ballroom dance classes, movie tickets, and paint nights are great ways to spend time together at a discount.
Keep Your Fitness Goals
Are you both committed to a healthier lifestyle this year? Make a gym or running date and come home and make a healthy meal together when you’re done. If the budget allows for race fees, check to see if there’s a 5K the holiday weekend that you can participate in together!
Coffee or Dessert Date
Maybe going out for a whole meal is a bit much for your budget right now but you’re still looking to get out of the house for a while. Just do dessert or head to your favorite coffee shop those are great options to indulge in something extra special without the big-budget price tag.
Spending time with your special someone is so important but you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get that quality time. I hope these Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Tips will give you a few ideas on how to celebrate with your Valentine for less.
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