Giving a gift to your sweetheart does not need to break the bank. Here are 5 quick tips for frugal Valentines day gifts:
1. Say it with words. Sometimes words speak louder than the most expensive gift. A handwritten note that spells out your love and devotion is the most thoughtful gift you can give. Often times the words “I love you” are not said enough. Writing not your forte? Try a video or voice recording that tells that special someone you love them. Or search online or at the library for some nice romantic poems and put a collection together to express your sentiments to the one you love.
2. Chocolate is always a winner. Some say that Chocolate is an aphrodisiac, I don’t know about that but it sure pleasures the taste buds. My own personal favorite way to show my family my love is to make hand dipped chocolate covered strawberries. They think I spent all day making this luscious dessert but little do they know that it takes almost no time or skill to make them. Just melt some chocolate (I usually use semi-sweet chocolate chips) and dip washed and dried strawberries. Lay them on a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper and pop in the fridge for 30 min or more. To serve put on a pretty platter.
3. Roses are another traditional Valentines day gift to give but the price of a dozen roses from a florist can break the bank at $50 or more. Instead, look to your local grocery store for a deals with a dozen roses at about half price from the florists prices. If cut roses seem a waste of money another thoughtful gift is to buy your sweetie a rose bush from the local garden center. My husband have given me a rose bush every year and those bushes mean more to me than any cut flowers he could give me. Each year as those bushes bloom I am reminded of his love for me.
4. Dine in instead of eating out. The cost of a fine dinner out at a restaurant can be expensive. Instead of eating out consider setting up a romantic dinner at home (if you have children either wait till they go to bed or send them to the sitters). You can make a fabulous romantic dinner for much less. Here is a great blog with some tasty and easy recipes for a valentines day meal: Dianasaur Dishes! Set your table with a nice table cloth, some candles and put some soft music on the stereo, or spread a blanket on the floor and have a picnic. Don’t forget the bottle of wine or champagne!
5. Create gift coupons for a Valentine gift that keeps on giving. You can make coupon on your home PC using standard programs such as Microsoft Word. Some coupon ideas: a massage, a night out without the kids, a movie date, breakfast in bed, car wash, pedicure or use your imagination!
