Valentine’s on a Budget

Valentine’s on a Budget

It’s that time of year again where “love is in the air” and people start to make plans for Valentine’s Day. As is the case with New Year’s Eve and Mother’s Day Brunch, the cost of a meal out can be expensive. If you want to do something special for the one you love, and don’t want to break the bank, take a look at the following suggestions to help you enjoy your holiday in a meaningful and cost effective way.

• Make dinner from scratch at home. Cook each other’s favorite dishes, buy some sparkling cider or wine instead of Champagne (Note: Martinelli’s Apple Cider at $3.69 a bottle and La Marca Prosecco at $14.00 are excellent budget conscious choices). Cooking together requires teamwork and communication. The quality time can be a great respite in the midst of chaotic schedules.
  
• Have Kids? Spend time baking cookies or cupcakes that the kids can decorate with frosting and sprinkles in Valentines colors. Then make it a movie or game night with the kids. Quality time over high dollar amounts always makes a positive difference in kid’s lives.
  

• Pack a picnic and go on an excursion, just the two of you. It could be ice skating at an outdoor rink (weather permitting), visiting a local art gallery, or going on a hike with a picnic lunch; the sky is truly the limit.
  

• Write a handwritten note instead of buying a fancy card. It may sound old fashioned, but writing a heartfelt note stating how much you love your spouse or partner is usually deeply appreciated.
  

• Make your gift from the heart, whether it’s a photo book from Shutterfly of your favorite photos, a craft made at school by the kids, or planting your spouse/partners favorite flower in the backyard. All of these things say to your other half, “I was thinking of you, and am making the effort to give you something that is meaningful.”
  

 For more Valentine’s Day ideas and suggestions, check out our Valentine’s Day Board on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/5aspace/seasons-greetings/