As a newlywed, there have been many conversations in my household recently about Valentine’s Day (the worst of which was my husband declaring that we didn’t need to celebrate it because we got married so we obviously love each other!). I am of the firm opinion that whether or not Valentine’s Day is an over-commercialised thing, it’s a great opportunity to show how much you care.
I’ve never been one for flowers, however. I do think they’re pretty…but I don’t see the sense in spending all that money on something that will be brown and wilted in a few days. Case in point – the two bunches of artificial flowers on my desk! (with photo) They look great, they don’t make a mess, and they’ll stay fresh forever.
But in thinking about Valentine’s Day, we’ve come up with a few suggestions to offer our readers that won’t break the bank, but will keep your loved ones quite happy.
1. Find an alternative to flowers.
For the ladies, why not purchase a lovely bouquet of artificial flowers to adorn her working space or living space? If she asks why they’re artificial, there’s always the line ‘I wanted them to last as long as our love!’
For the gentlemen, flowers aren’t such a traditional gift – but have you heard of edible flowers? Candy Stems is a local business that produces delicious arrangements…and they do say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.
2. Give them a break.
If your other half is usually responsible for the washing/cooking/cleaning in your household, try giving them a break for the day (or even the week!). Take on a few extra responsibilities and see how far that gets you – just the simple act of cooking dinner for your partner is inexpensive, heartfelt and will be appreciated. Offer to let them just relax with a cold beverage, or wait on them hand and foot. That’s service you probably won’t get at a 5-star restaurant!
3. Make something with your hands.
Valentine’s Day gifts don’t have to be expensive, sparkly and presented in small boxes. Often the best gift is something thoughtful and handmade, because it was made with love. Get your craft on, or even just write a sincere, handwritten letter – sentimental people will adore these things because they have meaning, if not monetary value.
The true secret to having the perfect Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank is to simply be considerate – think what the special person in your life needs the most, and try to give it to them. If you haven’t planned ahead for the day or don’t have a special someone, why not take advantage of the opportunity to randomly be kind to a stranger? It’s not too late to make it a Valentine’s Day to remember.
Also in this month’s Wealth By Design:
