Tips like these helped us pay off $127K in debt. You can read our story in Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After.
Hooray, it’s a day to celebrate love. Do you want to know what no one loves? Spending too much money! I’m here to save the day (especially if you’re looking for a last minute way to celebrate your sweeting with these Valentine’s Day Money Saving Ideas.
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.
Coupon Deals
If you do choose to dine out, be sure to check out these great ways to save money when you dine out:
- Qdoba: Buy 1 Entree, Get 1 Free when you kiss someone! You definitely want to be sure you know whoever you kiss. Check out all of the details here.
- Papa Johns: Thin crust heart-shaped pizzas for $9!
- Papa Murphy’s: Heart-shaped pizzas for $7 (although prices may vary by location).
- Steak-n-Shake: FREE Valentine’s Day Milk Shake when you buy $10 in gift cards.
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 your favorites from the grocery store since you won’t have to tip or spend more on dinner out. Look for recipes today and crack out the candles and a favorite playlist to make the environment even more special.
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. Practice patience this year and sample the sweets at least half the price.
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Make Your Own Cards
Go all old school and crack out the markers and construction paper. Instead of purchasing pricey cards, display your affection the old fashioned way. Or write a letter to show your love. You could even head to Pinterest to search for free printable cards or sweet little coupon booklets, 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.
Lower Your Expectations
Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays that can really leave us with a sour taste in our mouths if we’re not careful. Don’t put too much pressure on your spouse to make all of your wishes and dreams come true. It’s fun to spend time together. It’s fun to enjoy a delicious meal and write a letter expressing our love for one another. But it’s not fun or fair to expect your spouse or significant other to knock it out of the park every year. Be delighted with whatever you receive, even if it’s not what you expected.
Don’t Borrow to Celebrate
A gift purchased on credit or by borrowing money is no gift at all. Be sure you spend only what you have budgeted or in the bank. If a gift comes with interest or a payment plan, you’ll end up paying more than you should and that’s less than lovely.
Have fun this Valentine’s Day but be a smart spender. Get creative and give Cupid a run for his money while you save all of yours!
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!
