Valentine's Day On A Budget

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So Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and whilst dinner at a fancy restaurant and being showered with gifts sounds amazing, it's not always within everyone's budgets, particularly so soon after Christmas. I know for sure that my husband and I will be spending Valentine's Day on a tight budget this year, so I thought I'd share with you some lovely date and gift ideas to make the day special without breaking the bank.


Homemade gifts
Some of the best gifts are those that you've actually put time and effort into making. It really shows that you've given it some thought, and adds a more personal touch. For example, you could make a photo collage of pictures of the two of you, or make a CD of songs that mean something to the pair of you. Another good homemade gift idea is to bake Valentine's themed biscuits, or make chocolate truffles. There's a really good chocolate truffle recipe here that's really cheap and easy to make.

Breakfast in bed
There's no better way to start the day than to have a nice lie in and be brought breakfast in bed by your partner. You could even get creative and make heart shaped toast or pancakes to add to the Valentine's theme. Bring it to your partner served on a tray, with a single red rose to add a more romantic touch.

Go for a walk somewhere scenic
Going for a stroll somewhere pretty can be really romantic, and gives you a great opportunity to chat and get to know one another better. Plus the fresh air will do you good, but remember to wrap up warm first! If you're not feeling the exercise, you could always go for a drive through the countryside instead and stop off somewhere cheap for a bite to eat.

Cook dinner together
You don't need to go out somewhere to enjoy a fancy meal. Dig out a recipe book, or have a browse online and find something delicious that the two of you could cook together. Or, if you're feeling extra generous, you could even cook dinner for your partner whilst they sit down and relax.

If you really want to eat out, go at lunchtime instead
A lot of restaurants will have a lunch menu which will be more affordable than their evening menu, so you could enjoy a lovely meal out for a fraction of the price. Plus, restaurants are likely to be less busy during lunch than at dinner time.

Have a clear out
Not exactly the most romantic of ideas, but it's something you can work together on, and would be more productive than a day trip out. You never know, you may stumble upon something you've stored away that brings back memories for the two of you, and you can get lost in reliving old adventures.

DVD night
Snuggle up on the sofa under a blanket, with your favourite snacks and watch a movie or two together, or maybe even your favourite boxset. If you're looking for something more romantic for Valentine's Day, the supermarkets have got a great selection at the moment, most under £5, making this a much cheaper option than the cinema.

DIY pamper night
Treat your partner to an at home spa experience my running them a bath with their favourite products and plenty of candles to help them relax and have a really good pamper evening. I love having a good old pamper evening anyway, but if my husband was to set it all up for me, that would make it even more special.

How are you planning on spending Valentine's Day?