The fact that Valentine’s Day has devolved into another commercial gift-giving non-celebration is a terrible shame. It’s not Christmas, it’s not a Birthday; instead of just buying a gift, do something romantic. Here are some ways to make an effort and bring some of the soul and romance back, without having to spend money on expensive gifts.
 
Plan In Advance
Don’t wait until the the day before to plan your Valentine’s Day. If you can plan in advance you will be able to put a little money aside and can do some research, shop around, know how much you’ll have to spend. See how much you can afford to spend using personal finance software. If you’re getting flowers, call round a few different florists and get quotes. If you’re going to a restaurant, compare the menus and prices of a few different places. You can do that online, or you can pop in and check out the atmosphere too, but you’ll have to make reservations well in advance, because they will book up early. They say failing to plan is planning to fail.
 
Be Adventurous
It seems that everybody gives flowers to their lady on Valentines, or takes them to dinner. Why not try something more original? Surprise her with a picnic, tickets for the cinema, a hike in the country or something that you’ve talked about doing but never made the time for.
 
Home Made Presents
We mentioned some money-saving gift ideas last year. Most people will appreciate sentimental value over monetary value of a gift, so putting the time in to make the gift yourself will be met with much approval. Try some craftwork and make some jewellery for a girl or a picture frame for a man. Make a card for him with a poem inside that you wrote yourself. Make a mix CD of all their favourite songs, or songs you think are romantic, and draw your own sleeve notes with a romantic message inside. None of these things will put you out of pocket, and all will show you care.
 
Be Creative
One single handpicked flower is just as beautiful and romantic as a store-bought bouquet – maybe more so. Instead of an expensive box of gift wrapped chocolates, just get a standard box and place them in a love heart shape on the bed. Again, the thought is much more romantic than the price tag.