Diamonds, roses, chocolates, oh my! If you celebrate Valentine’s Day the way retailers suggest, you could spend a fortune in just one day.
With spending messages everywhere, it’s easy to think you need to buy something extravagant to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Shrinking household incomes, for example, are taking a lot of people back to basics for many things, including special occasions.
Can you celebrate Valentine’s Day on a budget? Absolutely. The point of the day is to express love and affection for those you care about, not racking up large bills to prove your love. Here are some low or no cost ideas to ponder. Also, add your own low-cost gift ideas in the comments section.
Visit a natural place you love-
Perhaps there’s a special place you find comforting, restful or beautiful. Simply being there makes you feel good. You could go there and take a walk by yourself, savoring the atmosphere. Or, share it with a loved one by asking them to go you to learn why you enjoy it so much.
Relax in a bath full of bubbles-
Many of us are so busy we’ve forgotten how luxurious and relaxing a bubble bath can be. If you have fancy products to use, great, but if you don't most bath wash products can be used to make a bubble bath and even dish soap will do if there’s nothing else. The pleasure isn’t in the products, it’s in enjoying and relaxing in a warm tub to give your body and mind a nice break from daily stress and aggravation. (No, you don’t have to just do this alone.)
Have a romantic movie night…at home-
For some, escalating costs have attached a high price tag to a simple night at the movies, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a romantic movie night. Many public libraries have great classic movies available at no charge. DVD kiosks in many communities offer rentals for as little as one dollar a night. Your own movie collection likely has some favorites worth seeing again, or perhaps some friends would enjoy sharing or swapping some favorites for the occasion.
Use the food in your fridge…in a new way-
Not interested in spending a fortune on one dinner? Look for creative ways to use items already on hand.
Hope your Valentine’s Day is filled with joy, love and a lot of laughter!
Mladen
Cvecara Beograd
