With Valentine’s Day just over a week away, I have some work to do in the gift-giving department. Being the budget-loving, money-saving gal I am, I will definitely be utilizing a hefty dose of creativity to ensure I don’t break the bank for my “favorite” Hallmark Holiday. 
The thing is, I love giving gifts. Whether it’s for strangers during any rendition of my Operation Giving Back missions or holiday gifts for just about anyone on the list, I’m usually trying to figure out a way to stretch my gift dollars as far as possible. But I draw the line at giving something that’s completely thoughtless or bought last-minute just to buy something. More often than not, I find a way to give something meaningful that also fits in the budget.
Creative Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas that Can be Adapted to Fit Any Budget…
Edible Valentine’s Day Gifts
One of my favorite gift-giving categories is something edible. Whether it’s cooked or baked, I’ve always had a lot of fun creating something yummy for a neighbor or loved one. This year, I’ll be making homemade fortune cookies for my BF (I certainly hope he’s not reading this!!!), complete with personalized fortunes. If I have time, I’ll also make some homemade cupcakes and candy for a few of my friends and co-workers to enjoy. Check out my Eats & Treats Pinterest board for loads of fun, easy recipes–including the one I’ll be using for the fortune cookies!
Sentimental Valentine’s Day Gifts
Another favorite gift category of mine, no matter the occasion, is something sentimental. I won’t be divulging the details of this gift for BF just in case he’s reading this post, but I like to create gifts based on shared experiences, interests and/or dreams and goals. Some inexpensive ideas are scrapbooks, framed photos in DIYed frames and personalized magnets or other office/desk accessories. Also, never, ever underestimate the power of a hand-written card or note!
Inexpensive Valentine’s Day Date Ideas
The last category, dates, is a must-have for me because I’m all about giving the means for fun and memorable life experiences instead of material objects. After all, the memory of the experience you had while taking the photo lasts far beyond the dust accumulating on that frame. Some of my favorite, inexpensive Valentine’s Day date ideas include:
- Star gazing. Depending on where you live and the weather that day, you might only need a blanket and a clear sky to create a memorable Valentine’s Day
- Indoor picnics. This can also be done outdoors obviously, but if you’re like me and live somewhere that actually has winter weather in February, you can set up a cozy picnic area in your house. Combine this with your cooked or baked goodies, some bubbly and spend your V-day talking long into the wee hours of the night
- Scavenger hunts. I haven’t personally done this before, but I’ve always wanted to set up a date that revolved entirely around a scavenger hunt. Seriously, how fun would that be?!
Giveaway Time–Enter to Win $100!
If you’re still shopping for Valentine’s Day gifts, don’t forget to check out coupon offers from sites such as CouponFollow.com. If you are going to buy something, you might as well try to save some money on your purchase!
Speaking of money, enter now for your chance to win $100….
Will you be giving any Valentine’s Day gifts this year? If so, what are you planning to give and how will you save money doing so?
Photo credit: epSos.de
