Hooray it’s the season of love! And while it’s wonderful to show your love to the people in your life, it’s also wonderful to resist the urge to drain your bank account. In fact, some of the most meaningful gestures of love don’t cost anything. But don’t mishear me. I’m not telling you to cheap out on your Valentine in the name of your bottom line. Instead, consider these last minute Valentine’s Day Restaurant Deals and Money Saving Tips so you can make the most of every penny.
Kids’ Valentines
If you’ve waited until the last minute to get your kids’ classroom Valentine’s buck up, it’s about to get a little challenging. Odds are good that supply chain issues combined with last minute shopping could mean very few Valentines left on the shelf. But have no fear, your little one can still get their hands on their favorite characters and lovely wishes. An abundance of free printable Valentines are available online as well as downloadable printables for purchase on Etsy. Out of ink? You may still have time to get some printed on the same day at a retailer like Office Depot. Be sure to check the coupons before you checkout and use a cash back platform like Rakuten to extend your savings.
Kids’ Party Favors
If the teacher asked for every student to bring in a low cost item for each student for treat bags, there are plenty of low cost favors to get the job done. I’m far from a crafty mom. If you are, then pour yourself a cup of coffee and get busy. You can cut apart sheets of stickers (or even use an entire sheet depending on the number of students). You’ll find affordable options near the card and party area of your big box retailers. You can also find small favors in this area. It’s smart to avoid specifically branded Valentine’s Day items since they’ll be obsolete in a week’s time. One year I sent in a quarter for every student and it was a hit. Keep it simple and follow classroom guidelines.
Restaurant Deals
While making a romantic dinner at home will almost always cost less, a number of restaurants are offering sweet specials this week in honor of your sweetheart. Here are some of my favorites:
- Bonefish: Both Dine in and Carryout special menu options. If you want to stretch your dollar further, purchase Outback Steakhouse Gift Cards from Sam’s Club under face value to use to buy your food. They work at Bonefish, too. And don’t forget to use your rewards account to earn points toward free food.
- Chick-fil-A: Pick up a heart shaped 30 Count Nugget or 10 count Chicken Mini tray at participating restaurants. You may also have an option for a chocolate chip cookie or brownie halves. Keep in mind, you could also order these items (or any favorite food) and arrange it in the shape of a heart on your own.
- Heart Shaped Pizza: Almost all of your favorite pizza joints have their own heart shaped pizzas right now. ALDI and other grocers are featuring ones to take and bake, too. Keep in mind while cute, these probably cost more than a regular pie. I still love them though. Papa John’s, Pizza Hut, Giordano’s, & Papa Murphy’s all have offerings.
- Krispy Kreme: Check out the cute Sprinkle a Little Love Doughnut options this Valentine’s Day. The speciality doughnuts come with two pop out Valentines to share.
- McAlister’s Deli: February 12 – 14 from 5-8 PM daily, McAlister’s is offering 50% off their steak entree items with the purchase of another steak entree item when you order in the app and use the code STEAK22.
- Sonic: In the app, you’ll find a one time only reward for ½ priced milkshakes (up to 5).
- White Castle: Most locations won’t be offering their Dine In Romantic dinner option this year. However, participating locations are offering a special Love Cube Meal for 2.
- Your Favorite Restaurant: Almost every chain and local place has a deal running right now. Do some online research to see what aligns with your budget before you head there though.
Consider Your Sweetheart’s Passion
Every Valentine is different so when buying a gift, invest in something you know they’ll love rather than buying a pre-fab gift. Whether it’s art or exercise, sport or books, pour into the passion and buy something significant. I’m personally loving the TikTok Target Challenge where you each take $20-25 and buy set items for each other – a favorite drink, a favorite snack, something in their favorite color, something that reminds you of them, and an everyday item. Or you could choose your own categories like something cozy or something to wear. It could be a fun and affordable date night without dropping a ton of cash and yielding practical, thoughtful gifts.
Flowers
Getting flowers on actual Valentine’s Day might be challenging. But you can begin by calling a local florist to see if they have any last minute deals. Sam’s Club and Costco also always have lovely flowers at a lower cost. And your favorite big box retailer may have some options, too. But definitely don’t wait any longer. By the way, flowers are a lovely gift any day of the year, not just on February 14.
A handwritten letter, completing some home projects, or simply spending time together are all great free ways to celebrate the ones you love this year. You don’t have to bust your budget to show how much you care. But you do need to bust a move because Valentine’s Day comes soon!
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 The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
