For the couples on a budget, my suggestion is to focus on quality time together. Not only will this put an extra personal touch on the day, but it will also go a long way in deepening the intimacy between the both of you, which is always a good thing.
Here are some ideas on fun things you can do with your sweetie today:
Start the day off with breakfast in bed for your loved one.
Spend the day in bed together, need I say more?
On small pieces of paper, write down every kind of kiss that you can think of . Then fill an inexpensive bag with your “kisses” and give it to your sweetheart. Let him/her pull pieces of paper from the bag, and then give them whatever kind of kiss is described.
Pamper each other: Give each other massages, take a bath together, polish her toes.
Create an intimate evening at home, without the children if you have any. You can cook their favourite dinner, setting the table with candles and then dancing with each other to your favourite music.
If you have kids and no sitter, you can create an indoor picnic and make it a fun meal for everyone. Clear a space in your living room and spread out on the floor. If you have a space outside, then by all means take it outdoors.
The crafty people can make cards, gift baskets or any other token for your sweetie. Pinterest is loading with ideas if you are in need of some inspiration. If you are no so inclined and have a crafty friend, recruit them to help you out!
If your sweetheart has a sweet tooth and you are handy in the kitchen, then consider baking them their favourite dessert!
If your partner is an avid gardener, then consider a potter plant instead of freshly cut flowers. Not only will it all year, but potted plants are less expensive than cut flowers. Some stores offer potted miniature rose plants or other flowering plants. Trust me, as an avid gardener myself, they will love it!
Take it outdoors! If you and your sweetie love being in the fresh air, then go for a romantic walk. The more athletic couples can go hiking, riding, running, kayaking, swimming; the options are limitless!
Games’ Night! Enjoy your favourite childhood game whether Monopoly, or Jenga. Pair your games’ night with some fun Valentine’s Day themed treats and a glass of your favourite beverage and it will be night of fun and laughter. The more adventurous couples can play a game of strip rummy, poker, truth or dare; whatever tickles your fancy! You can also have a scavenger hunt around the house: leave clues and have a sweet surprise at the end.
Write a coupon book of IOUs they can redeem at the time of their choice, like a foot massage, an ice cream date, a movie night, permission to have the remote all night. Add anything that you know takes your partner to their happy place. Alternatively you can use a mason jar instead.
Turn off your phones and computers for the entire day. Spend uninterrupted time and attention with the person you love. You can watch a movie marathon with popcorn, build a giant puzzle, play video games, go for a long scenic drive. The possibilities are endless.
Find a scenic spot to watch the sunrise or sunset, equipped with blankets for snuggling and a hot drink.
Fill the room with balloons containing love notes inside for your significant other to pop. As first it will look like decorations but then once your sweetie pops them and look inside they will find the notes that they can become keepsakes.
Cover your honey’s mirror with Post-it notes listing all the things you love about him/her.
At the end of the day, quality time is what matters most. Spending time doing the things you love together will be a day well spent.