With only a month to go until Valentine's Day comes back around, it’s time to start getting organized. It can be so easy to overspend when you’re buying gifts for your loved one, but it’s not always the best idea. With so many of us counting our pennies, cheap and cheerful Valentine’s experiences have to be the way forward. And unlike Christmas underpants and socks don’t really fly, unless their silk and covered in red hearts. Here are my top three tips for gift buying at Valentine’s Day, without breaking the bank.
Make it personal
It’s the old cliche that you should only buy someone something if it’s personal to them, but when you’re trying to save money, it can really help. A cheap gift that tugs at the heart strings will be far more warmly received than something they never wanted, needed, or had even considered, however much it cost you. Beautiful pictures of great moments you’ve shared, displayed in attractive frames, are a great gift with a whole shedload of sentimental value. A special edition, hardback copy of a favorite book is a surefire way to get you in their good books, and it’s never going to cost the earth. You could even create a one-off gift, just for your partner, made with your own fair hands. If you’re any good at knitting, a scarf in their favorite color, maybe with a small heart locket sewn into the wool, is a romantic, unique, and very useful gift to receive.
2. Start early and keep an eye on the sales
The best thing about shopping for Valentine’s gifts is that most places are still riding out the last of their Christmas sales. While cut-price Christmas chocolates might not go down too well, electronics and clothing are at an all time low. Keeping an eye on online sales is a great way to bag yourself a bargain, such as these Fingerhut gift ideas. It’s also worth checking out the big department stores to see what beautiful treats they still have on sale before it’s too late.
3. Opt for a lovely experience
If you’re buying for someone who has everything or a new partner, so a sentimental gift might not be appropriate, why not create the ultimate romantic experience to share? A cozy night in is perfect if you’re really watching the pennies. Otherwise, while a night in the cinema with dinner and cocktails might seem expensive at first glance, there are plenty of ways to make it affordable. Check out Groupon for dining deals, as well as cinema, theater, and hotel discounts. Your partner doesn’t need to know that their romantic experience was purchased at a discount rate, and it’s the experience and the time spent together that matters the most.
It’s impossible to ignore Valentine’s day - the teddies, candy, and love heart cards are in every shop from the day the Christmas decorations come down. But it doesn’t have to cost the world to give your loved one a thoughtful and romantic treat that they’re thoroughly deserving of.
