5 Valentine’s Day Money-Saving Tips

About 53% of Americans had planned to celebrate Valentine’s Day in 2022!  According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), sales for Valentine’s Day this year are expected to be over $23.9 Billion, an increase of over $3.2 Billion from last year.

The average person is planning on spending $175 on candy, cards, and gifts. Believe it or not, $763 million will be spent on pets, with an average of $25 on dogs and $21 on cats.

Obviously, Valentine’s Day gifts can be expensive; however, they don’t have to be.  This day can also trigger a variety of emotions and angst, especially when relationships are on the rocks.  The truth is you don’t need to spend a ton of money to show your loved ones you care!

The oldest record of a Valentine being sent according to History.com was a poem written by a French Medieval Duke named Charles to his wife in 1415.  Charles penned a sweet note to his lover while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London at 21 years of age. 

During this Covid-19 era, ALL holidays are tricky.  Many times our family has had to move the dates of birthday parties, graduations, weddings, and other family and business gatherings during the past 3 years.  This Valentine’s Day is no different. 

My top 5 Tips to save money on Valentine’s Day:

  1. Move the Date: This year, Valentine’s Day is on Tuesday the 14th.  This special day could be moved up and celebrated the weekend before on Friday or Saturday when restaurant prices are “normal.”  You could also move it back to Wednesday the 15th and save 75% by buying Valentine’s Day candy on Wednesday the 15th. 
  2. Book a Staycation: Celebrating with a romantic getaway can be expensive with hotels increasing their rates by 25% or more during Valentine’s Day week and weekend.  You can stay romantic and curb spending by booking a Staycation at a local hotel or cozy Airbnb.
  • Stay Home:  With supply-chain issues continuing to affect us to a degree, there are many creative things and ways for couples to celebrate without having to splurge on a $250 steak dinner for two.  A nice cozy night at home, cuddling in front of the TV watching a movie with a glass of wine, takeout (or cooking a romantic dinner together), and thoughtful hand-made personal gifts can go a long way to fortifying your relationship!  
  • Shop Online for Flowers: If you do not have the time to shop at your local florists, you might want to consider shopping online or at Costco or Aldi’s, who have specials on flowers days in advance of Valentine’s Day.  Online retailers, such as 1-800-Flowers, FTD, and ProFlowers give you the chance to compare prices on bouquets and a variety of types of flowers. Another option is to buy flowers other than roses.    Do Not buy anything online without first searching for online coupons or coupon codes for as much as 20%-50% off on flowers and arrangements.  Try www.Groupon.com or your favorite online coupon site. 
  • Stay Single: For singles, Valentine’s Day can be just a regular day or perhaps a day where you TREAT YOURSELF to something special.  Spending your gift cards is a good way to treat yourself and save money.

If all else fails, the personal touch of a nice card with a handwritten love note added to a gift card, and some personal time walking in the park or where you have had positive experiences can work just as well. 

Are you doing anything out of the ordinary for Valentine’s Day?  Let me know at [email protected].