Love is in the air! This week will be filled with hearts, flowers, candy, and cards. It’s easy to get caught up in the festive season and overspend. But your bank account doesn’t have to turn a bright shade of red. Use these tips to save money on Valentine’s Day.
Choose Lunch
For many people, going out in the evening can cost 2-3 times the amount that a nice lunch out would. So opt for lower menu prices and if your kids are school-aged, no babysitting fee simply by choosing to go out for Valentine’s Day at lunch time.
Dine In
Maybe this would be a great year to dine in instead of going out. But don’t just settle for macaroni and cheese. Wait until after you’ve put the kids to bed, and cook your favorite dish. Splurge on wine or a more expensive cut of meat since you won’t have to tip or spend more on dinner out.
Make Your Own Valentines
Don’t worry about spending a ton of money on Valentines that will be thrown away after the class party. Head to Pinterest to find free printable Valentines and ideas for decor that you can make with items you already have at home. Even a hand written letter is a better choice than dropping a ton of cash on a card.
Wait
February 15th is just as romantic as the day before. Choose to celebrate a day or two later, picking up gift items and candy on clearance. Plus, you’ll avoid the long lines at your favorite restaurant, too. Of course, you can’t do this for classroom celebrations, but big people can practice some patience and save some money, too.
Pick Up Red Decor on Clearance
It’s a message that I repeat after almost every holiday. You need to cruise the seasonal clearance aisle to check out the solid red decor item. Reusable bowls and baskets, placemats and platters that are red can be used for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, 4th of July, Memorial Day, and more.
A happy and healthy relationship is not dependent upon spending. One of the best things you can do this year is to lower your expectations and be grateful for whatever your significant other gifts you this year.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out Inspiration to Pay Off Debt: 30 Days of Encouragement from the Queen of Free
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal or maybe even something for free, you also help our family pay off our mortgage early. And for that, we royally thank you!
🙂