Create your own Valentine’s Day deals with a little help from our ideas below. People spend significant amounts of money on Valentine’s Day for various reasons, driven by cultural, social, and personal factors. But this year, we say Don’t Be Stupid, Cupid. Make your February Savings Challenge all about celebrating love for less. Below, we have budget-friendly V-Day ideas no matter what your situation is.
If you’re looking for even more ideas, check out our Valentine’s Day ideas under $50.
Each month, we’re bringing you 12 fresh and fun money-saving challenges to try in 2024.
Don’t Fall for The Hype
The holiday has become highly commercialized, with businesses capitalizing on the opportunity to market and sell romantic products. Advertisements, promotions, and special deals all encourage us to spend more money during this time. Not to mention, Valentine’s Day spending happens to come right on the heels of finally paying off credit cards with all that holiday season spending. Last year, the National Retail Federation reported that Americans were expected to spend close to $26 billion celebrating the day in 2023.
Of course, there are also people that resort to buying expensive gifts as a quick and convenient way to express love. I don’t know about you, but I’m always more likely to spend more than I should for the convenience of a quick solution when I’m short on time or just not feeling creative. So if you’re too pressed for time or feel you lack creativity, you’re not alone and we have options for you, too!
This year, don’t fall for the hype. You can make the day special without blowing your budget by making your own Valentine’s Day deals.
If You’re Short on Time: The Love Note
If you’re short on time but still want to make Valentine’s Day special, consider this quick and classic idea: The Love Note.
Take a few minutes to write a heartfelt letter expressing your love and appreciation for your partner. Handwritten notes can be incredibly meaningful. You can include memories, reasons you love them, or plans for the future. A handwritten note is also a thoughtful way to take a moment to express gratitude for your partner. Share specific things you appreciate about them, and let them know how much they mean to you. These old-school displays of affection are just one way to create your own Valentine’s Day deals.
For an alternative twist, you can also leave small notes with sweet messages in unexpected places you know your partner will discover throughout the day, like in their lunch bag, wallet, or on the bathroom mirror. Plagued with writers block? Scroll through these suggestions to get inspired.
If You’re Long Distance: The Virtual Movie Night
While The Love Note works well for showing long distance love, too, another great option is The Virtual Movie Night.
Pick a movie or two that you both love or have been wanting to watch. Set up a virtual movie night, even if you’re not physically together and discuss your favorite scenes afterward. Consider dropping a small care package in the mail ahead of Valentine’s Day, complete with a bag of microwavable popcorn, a pair of fuzzy heart socks, and quick note saying how excited you are to connect with them, even if it can’t be in-person.
You can even consider picking a recipe neither of you have tried before, making it separately, and sharing your first bite together via video chat before the feature film. If do have a few dollars in the budget for it, you could consider having take-out delivered to their home right before you kick off your virtual viewing. After all, you won’t have to spring for high priced movie tickets and popcorn!
Create your own Valentine’s Day deals by turning dinner and a movie into something extra special.
If You Love Staying Home: The DIY Cooking Class
Is the only thing you love more than your valentine the idea of staying home? Create your own Valentine’s Day deals with The DIY Cooking Class.
Begin by selecting a recipe for a delicious meal that will appeal to both of you. Be sure to read through the recipe well in advance to be sure it matches your skill level and doesn’t call for kitchen gadgets not already in your arsenal. You can either shop for the necessary ingredients together to make it a collaborative experience from the start or surprise your valentine with a fully prepared kitchen, ready for culinary excitement.
Set up a cooking station in your kitchen, complete with pre-measured ingredients and utensils. If it’s in your budget, spring for on-theme aprons for a touch of fun and to commemorate the day. Follow your chosen recipe step by step, exploring new flavors and techniques together. Regardless of the dish, the shared effort in the kitchen will cook up a great Valentine’s Day.
Want to stay in but not sure a DIY cooking situation is for you? Give one of these at-home ideas a try instead.
If You Hate Staying Home: The Quick Day Trip
Do you just have to get out of the house? Create your own Valentine’s Day deals by exploring The Quick Day Trip.
If time allows, plan a day trip to a nearby scenic spot, park, or attraction. Opt for a nice picnic with your loved one’s favorite snacks or meal. Maybe there’s a drink or food item that holds significance—like the candy you shared on your first date or the signature drink you had at your wedding. Set up a cozy spot with a blanket and enjoy a short, intimate meal together.
And if you can’t both take the day off from work (or at least take a half day), you can always give a thoughtful card on V-Day letting your loved one know that you have a quick day trip planned for the weekend. Enjoy some quality time together away from the usual routine.
This year, don’t fall for the hype and create your own Valentine’s Day deals. Remember, the most important thing is the thought and effort you put into making your partner feel loved and appreciated, regardless of the time constraints. Tailor these ideas to you and your valentine’s preferences and relationship dynamics.
Don’t forget to keep up with the latest to catch each month’s fun money-saving challenge!