5 Inexpensive and Memorable Valentine’s Day Ideas

Valentine’s Day is near! Now, I realize some of you are probably grumbling right now, as we all know that many of us are no fan of this Hallmark holiday. Those of you who fit that description are free to click away, no hard feelings. For the rest of you love-lovers, though, let’s look at how we can tackle this holiday without jeopardizing our hard work paying down our debts and building our credit rating. Here are 5 Valentine's Day ideas that will woo your love without hurting your wallet:

1. Homecooked dinner

Everyone loves a homecooked meal. It’s not just the fresh ingredients or the comforting taste, it’s also about the effort we put into it. It is easy to take someone out for dinner - just get in your car and drive. It’s not as easy to whip up a nice fettuccine alfredo from scratch. What’s more, you get time to be alone with the love of your life, instead of surrounded by other couples and interrupted every ten minutes by your server. You’re not going to end the night looking at a hefty bill for that set 3 course menu and feeling that twist in your chest. Instead, you choose inexpensive ingredients, fill your home with wonderful smells, light some candles and tell your love they’re worth the effort. Trust me, this is a much bigger win than lining up at the Keg for a $50 steak.

2. Buy a potted plant instead of flowers

You can find potted flowers in just about any store that sells flowers or garden supplies. They are often a fraction of the cost of expensive bouquets and the best part about them, is that they stay alive with a little love and care. Your $100 bouquet is going to die. Is that really the best symbolism for your relationship? No, I didn’t think so. So, find yourself some cute little flowers and a beautiful pot and give that to your partner instead.

3. Make your own chocolates

You would be surprised how easy this is. At the most basic level, you can just grab some semi-sweet chocolate chips, melt them in a double broiler with a bit of butter and/or heavy cream. When entirely melted, let it cool until you can roll them into balls and toss them in cocoa powder or icing sugar. Then, chill them. It really is that simple! Your significant other is going to think you’re some sort of budding chocolatier, they’ll be so impressed.

4. Create a photo album

With today's tech, it's so easy to just look at all your photos on your phone or computer, and never bother to actually print them out. The gems get lost in your 5,000 photo camera roll, and that's such a shame. This Valentine's Day, take the time to go through your photos and find the pictures that capture the amazing moments you've shared together. Go to your local Walmart or London Drugs and pay a couple loonies to print out your favourite photos. Having an actual tangible photo album of those travelling snaps, candid moments, and fun times you've shared together is something your significant other will treasure forever.

5. Catch a sunset

For those of you who live in milder climates, choose an outdoor spot to catch the sun going down. If you’re in a colder place, find a spot to park and watch it. Even if you’re not the romantic type, this will impress. In fact, it’ll be a shocking and happy surprise to bring your partner to a spot you researched and watch as the sky turns all sorts of gorgeous colours and the sun dips below the horizon.

If you’re with the right person, though, it’s not going to matter what you do, so long as you want to do it with them. So, think outside the Hallmark box. Ditch the flowers, get rid of the store bought chocolates and be true to yourself. No matter what you decide to do, your significant other is going to appreciate it.

What are some of the inexpensive things you do for Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments!