So Valentine’s Day is 10 days away and you still don’t have a gift for your significant other. Don’t worry, I’ve also been procrastinating, but we’re going to get through this together. I’ve compiled a list of low-budget gifts and dates to help us make Valentine’s a success on a budget.
1. Do-It-Yourself Date
Rather than spending a bunch of money on a meal in a fancy restaurant, consider making a special meal at home. Set the mood with some candles, some flowers, music of choice, and maybe a tablecloth. It will cost you money for ingredients and some time in cooking, but you don’t have to deal with crowds, you don’t have to tip, and you already have the best seat in the house reserved.
If you don’t have time to cook dinner, try making a nice breakfast or a delicious dessert to enjoy with your partner and other loved ones.
2. Give of Yourself
What could you do for your significant other that is uniquely you? Do you paint? Draw? Do you like to write little poems? (That’s what I did for my boyfriend last year.) Maybe you’re a really good cook, or you make excellent origami. Anything you have a talent for has the potential to make a really thoughtful and inexpensive gift.
Or, you could go the classic route and make some favor coupons. For example, you could write coupons for foot rubs, dishes, back rubs, a date, etc. These printable downloads look nice and even include ideas for different coupons.
3. Be Corny
Did the two of you meet in a funny or odd way? Do you have any funny inside jokes, or special memories, from your relationship? Finding a memento that represents a funny or sentimental story is a great gift, because it shows care, thought, and brings you both back to that moment. For example, I might get my boyfriend a burger themed gift, like a key chain or a pillow, because we met in a burger restaurant.
4. Share an Activity
If you can find a Group-On for an activity your significant other is interested in that makes a great gift, especially if it is something you can do together. For example, you might go rock-climbing or take a glass blowing class. This will cost some money, but Group-On does have some good deals worth looking for.
Or just do something you both enjoy but don’t have a lot of time for. Cook together. Play a video game, or a board/card game. Go for a hike or a picnic. Ask each other these questions, designed to help you get to know someone better. This is an especially good activity for a new couple, but enjoyable even for a longer-term one.
Whatever you do, keep it simple and thoughtful and enjoy spending time with your partner.
Written by Mckenzie Candalot, Staff Writer – Mckenzie Candalot graduated from the College of Idaho with a B.A. in English Literature. She has a passion for written language and helping other women take control of their finances. When not blogging or reading, she enjoys cooking and spending time with loved ones.
