Enjoying time with loved ones is always important, and Valentine’s Day is no exception. While you may want to make the day special for your significant other, abandoning your budget isn’t the best, or most responsible, decision. It can be easy to get carried away, but Valentine’s Day isn’t about how much money you spend, but rather, who you spend time with. With that said, here are some inexpensive Valentine’s Day date ideas that will allow you to pay off debt and still impress.
Inexpensive Valentine’s Day Date Ideas
A lovely but inexpensive Valentine’s Day is within your reach. With a bit of planning, there’s no reason you have choose between romance or your debt management journey.
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Cook Dinner
Even if you’re not a master in the kitchen, cooking for your significant other is a nice thing to do. Making a meal shows that you made an effort to do something special for your partner and that you thought about Valentine’s Day ahead of time. Which, if you ask around, you’ll find is much preferable to picking up a box of chocolate on the way home from work (not that that would hurt, either).
You can try to cook their favorite meal or keep it simple with a classic recipe that you found online. If you’re unsure about your cooking chops, another idea is to make the dinner together. This way you have some back-up in the kitchen, and you can spend time together all at once. If all else fails, try to jazz things up with dessert. Pick something up or try your hand at baking. Just follow the directions on the box, and it should turn out alright.
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Make Presents
Again, it’s the thought that counts. Making presents is an easy way to have an inexpensive Valentine’s Day. You’ve probably thought about this tip before and weren’t sure what you could make that would be as great as the typical Valentine’s Day gifts. Here’s a cool idea to help you out.
Try making a “date jar” where you write out date night ideas on popsicle sticks. This way, when you two can’t seem to decide what to do, you just pick an idea out of the jar. You can even color code the sticks for different categories like food, activities, and low-cost options. Unlike flowers and chocolates, this gift will last long past Valentine’s Day. And, after the day passes, you won’t feel like you’re drowning in debt from an expensive purchase. It shows forethought and can provide for some entertaining and unique ideas that beat dinner and a movie.
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Plan Something
Planning a budget friendly date night can seem difficult, and even more so on Valentine’s Day. But don’t be fooled that you have to spend a lot of money to have a good time. Instead, think about an activity you could do to commemorate Valentine’s Day. Try to brainstorm some things that you and your partner enjoy doing together. Maybe you’re an active couple and enjoy scenic hikes or nature walks. Perhaps you know your partner loves camping, and it would make them super happy to go. Or, you’re avid sports fans. Buy some cheap tickets and have a fun night out. Even take a day trip to a nearby city and explore. It’s all up to you.
If you’re struggling with debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session today.