Kristi
Seriously, is it time for Valentine’s Day already? I’m still trying to resuscitate our bank account after all of that holiday spending when Cupid swoops in and demands the purchase of heart-shaped boxes of chocolate that—let’s be honest—aren’t even that good, flowers that will die in a week, stuffed animals that have no purpose or jewelry that I don’t need (but will never argue with).
I don’t know who came up with the rule that Valentine’s Day should consist of a cliché box of candy, overpriced flowers and dinner at a restaurant surrounded by a bunch of strangers, but you don’t have to follow suit! In fact, I encourage you not to spend money on such clichés. For one, you’ll save some major green by avoiding the textbook, overpriced Valentine’s Day gifts and locales, and as an added bonus, gentlemen, you’ll earn far more points for thinking outside of the heart-shaped box.
A crash course in Valentine’s Day gifts
Let me begin by saying that February 14th is not the day to run to the grocery store or—worse—gas station (you know who you are) in search of anything resembling a romantic gesture. If you wait until the last minute to start getting thoughtful, you run the risk of resorting to the leftover reject Valentine’s Day cards that are being phased out by Mother’s Day and graduation cards. If you find yourself standing in the floral section, you’ll probably be fighting with other last minute shoppers over the least wilted bouquet of flowers.
Don’t be that guy (or gal). Waiting until the last minute could result in spending way too much money on way too little quality in an attempt to dodge the doghouse. Putting a little thought into a gift just a few days earlier opens a new world of creative gifts that are sure to be more memorable than those gas station flowers. If you’re one who could use a little more gift guidance, see below:
Avoid coupons for free hugs, kisses and backrubs. Those should be free anyway.
Avoid gifts that can be consumed or will be next week’s trash. Candy, flowers, etc. might be typical Valentine’s Day gifts, but they don’t scream, “I put a lot of thought into this.”
Look for hints. If there is something that your significant other has been hinting at, you’re in luck because you have a blinking light calling you to a gift that will be a hit!
Discuss not giving gifts. If you feel like anything more than candy and flowers is just too much to spend for Valentine’s Day, discuss with your significant other the idea of skipping gifts this year. Instead, just spend time together doing something you both enjoy!
Valentine’s Day dates 101
I don’t know why, but anytime I hear the word “date” I immediately think dinner and a movie. Maybe it’s a go-to because it’s easy or because it’s widely accepted as a “typical date.” Either way, dinner and a movie is an overdone and expensive date—how overpriced is popcorn going to get, anyway?
There is a great big world of memorable dates out there that don’t involve eating in a stuffy dining room crowded with other couples or sitting silently in a movie theater surrounded by junior high couples who were all dropped off by their moms. Let’s ditch the norm and get creative lovebirds!
Check your local events calendar for Valentine’s Day activities. Your city or installation may have free or reasonably-priced activities on February 14th, like free concerts, plays or even an outdoor movie night (I know, not another movie, but it’s a little different).
Embrace local gems. If you are currently stationed near a beach, take a walk on the beach with your valentine. You may also want to take advantage of other natural treasures, parks or other local attractions, including museums and aquariums.
Cook dinner together. Choose a food you and your significant other love (or one you’d both like to learn to cook) and prepare dinner together. If you want to kick it up a notch, consider taking a one-time cooking class. Dinner is usually included and you can learn something new!
Dine al fresco. Take a break from the typical dinner routine without breaking the bank by simply moving dinner outside! Either enjoy your own backyard or picnic in the park. Just be sure to check the forecast so you aren’t picnicking in six inches of February snow.
Catch a ball game. Warning: this is only an option if you are BOTH sports enthusiasts. This suggestion loses all credibility if you or your love can’t identify the difference between a point and a run.
Sign up for an art class. Paint your own pottery or canvas classes are huge right now. You are able to get creative while having fun, and you get to walk away with a unique piece of art!
When making your Valentine’s Day plans, just remember that it’s only worth the time and money spent if it is fun for both of you. Surprises are not mandatory, but quality time and good company are. Strangely enough, neither of those components is expensive, so save your money and focus on what really matters, each other!