It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Well, for people who have someone special, that is.
Honestly, it’s not the end of the world for singles because guess what? You only have yourself to worry about! People with partners are going to have a tough time deciding on the perfect gift and they have to spend so much money for those Valentine’s Day gifts, too! Well, unless they read this article, they’re not going to have much fun being all lovey-dovey knowing they could get knees-deep broke because of expenses they have to spend for one day.
Bitterness aside, here are a few Valentine’s ideas this 2014 for the money-challenged boyfriends and girlfriends out there. You’ll be surprised at how possible it is for you not to spend a big part of your savings just to make a sweet gesture this Valentine’s.
Run. Specifically in running events. If you guys haven’t done this yet, this is an excellent way to try a new activity together. Most running events are for charity, and you don’t have to bring anything but you and your partner. Just don your sneakers and running shorts, and you’re good to go. Most running organizations provide the singlet and drinking stations. The fees for running events vary, but they’re very affordable and worth the new, healthy experience.
Go to a museum or an art gallery trip. Or the zoo. These cost-free trips are taken for granted, and that’s a shame. It’s also educational because you and your sweetheart can talk about what you see and take more pictures to fill up more than a few of those scrapbook pages.
Do a picture collage or a video montage of your memories together. Most people don’t even bother printing their photos anymore. Pictures don’t cost that much to print out and they make for a lovely memento. The video montage is way cheaper too, and can be played in your wedding reception, should you end up marrying each other in the future…
A picnic You can do this at home, at the garden, or a public park. You don’t have to prepare a lavish meal (especially if you can’t really cook). Make sandwiches. Bring a hot water bottle for two instant noodle cups, or coffee. End the date by going to a place where you can watch the sunset.
Bake cookies or two cupcakes. Simply said, boys will think you’re sweet. Now, if you’re a guy and you baked cookies—you’re going to be so irresistible.
Give her a love jar. Now, this takes a little effort. Get this started by writing memories of the two of you in different colored notes. It’s ok if you don’t fill it up—that’s when you tell him or her both of you will have to write little love notes or new memories to each other from now on.
A “Yours for the Day” ticket.Write those simple words on a cute piece of paper. Insert it in his or her book, or inside your Valentine’s Day card. The ticket will entitle your special someone to have you completely for one day, to be at their disposal. You’ll basically give them whatever they want or need for that day, whether it be a personal massage or delicious home-cooked burrito dinners for two—no complaints at all. Serving your sweetheart is a romantic thing, and this goes both ways.
Set a movie date at home. Stream it or download it. You can try watching romantic classics like “The Shop Around the Corner”, or Hepburn’s “Roman Holiday” and even Doris Day’s “Pillow Talk”. Just nuke a pack of microwavable popcorn and you’re good to go.
Bring out your inner artist. Sing a song. Write or recite a romantic poem. Sometimes your boyfriend and girlfriend just need some old-school romance.
Customised keyrings or button pins. It’s cheap, but it can be really sweet. It’s the little nothings that are most memorable. Putting these on without telling them will definitely be a cute surprise through the day. A Valentine’s Day gift for your boyfriend or girlfriend doesn’t always have to be fancy.
Books. A great gift idea for the day of Hearts is to find your darling’s book collection. You already know his or her favorite authors so why not try to buy hard copies of the books your sweetheart doesn’t have yet? Look in books sales and other places that offer discounted books. Second-hand books do not devalue the content of the book. Plus, you’re almost always bound to find ones still in mint condition.
Personalised dog tags. You don’t need to give the usual jewelry to stake your claim over your partner. It’s a bit imaginative and artistic compared to the usual bracelet, ring, or earrings gift.
Get free messenger apps for smartphones that are exclusive for couples. Talking to your honey often is one of the best traits of a long, lasting relationship, after all. Search for Couple or Avocado.
A field trip. Reminiscing is one of the best ways to rekindle the flame. Make new and happier memories to places you’ve been before. If you’re feeling extra sweet, you can do a repeat of your first date.
No need to use your credit card for Valentine’s Day gifts. You can cut back on your spending and focus more on bringing more spice and sweetness to the relationship, even on a student budget. And of course, don’t forget to say those three special words that always—always—manage to outweigh all the gifts in the world. Happy Valentine’s Day!
