Valentine on a budget

 

Has anyone else noticed how hard it is to recover from the holiday?

To be perfectly honest, it usually takes most people a few months, which is why it’s always a good idea to think about affordable Valentine’s Day gift ideas.

In a world where a bouquet of flowers can cost hundreds of dollars, it can seem like there are few things to do on a budget.

However, the good news is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money if you use a little imagination.

After all, celebrating February 14 is all about spending time with the one you love (or the ones, if you’re spending it with some friends instead of a significant other).

 

Other than the obvious option of making dinner at home, there are plenty of fun, creative things you can do that won’t break the bank.

Keep reading for some affordable Valentine’s Day ideas you and your special someone will love.

Enjoy breakfast in bed

This is an especially good one if you’re in a busy season at work.

 

Wake up just a little bit earlier and cozy up with your partner for an hour or so before you start the day.

 

Just don’t forget to make extra coffee.

Do a DIY wine tasting

Wine-tasting classes can be costly, but all you need are a few different varietals to do your own at home.

 

Swirl and sip your way to finding your next favourite date-night bottle.

Look at old photos

Scroll through your photos — it will be fun to see how you’ve changed over time.

 

This is an especially good one if you’ve been together for a while.

 

Finish the night with a new photo to add to the mix.

Give each other massages

Settle in for the night with your partner and pamper each other with massages.

 

You can set the spa vibe with a scented candle and some massage oil.

Rent a movie

There will be no lines and no need to brave the wet weather.

 

Instead of just watching something on Netflix, bite the bullet and spend a few dollars renting a new release.

Stage your own photoshoot

Nothing says “I love you” quite like cute photos together.

 

Have a friend take some adorable pics or snap some selfies.

 

You can then display the images around your place (and on social media, if you’re into that).

Go on a hike

Explore the great outdoors together.

 

Being outside is known to boost happiness, and being together will make it even better.

 

Plus, the views from the top of a mountain are super romantic.

Put together a picnic

Lay out a cozy blanket in the park or the living room.

 

Pack a basket of all of your favourites, including cheese, wine, and cured meats.

Write love letters and read them out loud

Spend a few days before writing love letters to one another.

 

Make a night out of reading them aloud and toasting to your future together.

Have a candlelit dinner at home

Few things are more romantic than cooking together.

 

You’ll spend at least half as much as you would at a restaurant, and you won’t be kicked out to make room for the next seating.

Bake a sweet treat

Buy a box of baking mix for less than $5 and eat as much as you want.

 

Preferably, make a chocolate desert, in honour of the day.