The month of love is upon us and happily, Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year. This means that many won’t be stuck in work and can spend the whole day with their significant other. If you’ve got someone special in your life at the moment, then it’s likely that you’ll want to treat them to a Valentine’s to remember. However, with Christmas debts still stinging the bank accounts of many, Valentine’s can come around a little too quickly.
So how can you show your other half that you care, without getting into crippling debt in the process?
It can feel like there’s a lot of expectation and pressure to show your love, and this often requires money. Jewellery, chocolates, a meal out, roses – all of these things cost money. If you’re strapped for cash, don’t panic. There are plenty of things you can do to show you care without breaking the bank.
Write a Love Letter Penning a love letter is the most thoughtful way to show someone you love them. Write from the heart and your letter will mean more than the biggest bunch of flowers in the florist!
Make a Photo Album Printing off your phone, Facebook or Instagram photos into Polaroid style prints is a great modern take on the photo album, and a lovely way to rejig some memories. Polargram gives you 48 prints for just £12 or try Photobox for Facebook photos, from 5p each.
Create a Mixed Tape In the 90’s, creating a mixed tape for someone was the ultimate way to show you cared. Making a digital playlist is the way to go these days, and you can send it on the morning of Valentine's Day. Pick songs that remind you of your loved one, that you've enjoyed together, or which represent what they mean to you.
Shop Around If you've got a little money to spend it's best to shop around when planning the perfect romantic day. Great swaps to make are prosecco instead of Champagne, a mixed bunch of flowers instead of roses and a homecooked meal instead of an expensive restaurant meal. If you're feeling the pinch, you could even wait until later in the day and pick up some flowers in the reduced section.
Cook a Romantic Meal It's much nicer to curl up at home with a homecooked meal than join lots of other couples in a crowded restaurant competing to be the most romantic. Decorate the table with tea lights, pop the playlist on that you made earlier and the evening will make itself.
Remember for Valentine's day, it's always the thought that counts.