Every February 14th, couples, families, and friends-alike, anticipate a day of celebrating companionship, friendship, and love. Thus, for those who annually partake in the (debatable) tradition, grand expressions and gestures of love can be difficult, especially when on a tight budget. As window displays glitter and glisten, with all neon signs pointing to buying boxes of chocolate, bouquet arrangements, cards, and perhaps even jewelry, the pressure to “arrive in style” is mounting. On the other hand, consumer experts have studied Valentine’s Day trends over the past decade and the results are intriguing: Ten years ago, more than 60 percent of adults planned to Valentine’s Day; today, that number has dropped to just over half. And yet, Valentine’s Day spending has continued to rise with $20 billion dollars projected to be spent this year. (Cullen, National Retail Federation, 2019)
Cullen explains that consumer’s declining excitement over all Valentine’s Day related activities is related to the “over- commercialization of the holiday; not having anyone to celebrate with; and simply not being interested anymore” (2019). Moreover, data collected highlights that in 2009, 72% of 18-34-year-olds participated in Valentine’s Day traditions compared to the 52% of 18-34-year-olds surveyed who stated that they will participate in Valentine’s Day traditions this year. As a result, for a majority of 18-34-year-olds partaking in the action, celebrations will deviate from the norm. For example, they will “treat themselves to something special, hold a get-together with other single friends, or even purchase an ‘anti-Valentine’s Day gift’" (Cullen, 2019). And yet, for the remaining lovers of tradition, the average amount spent on a gift for their significant other will be over $60 and land within the realm of $140. Therefore, if these prices are leaving your panicked, do not fret for there are many ways to gift your significant other without breaking the bank. Cards Should trying to tap into, and effectively hone, your creative skills leave you frustrated as you attempt to make a well-crafted homemade card, it is alright to walk away from the project and celebrate your efforts. Once you have regrouped, employ research. To start, Amazon can be your Valentine’s Day source as they are selling an assorted 30 pack of Valentine’s Day greeting cards for the low price of $20. With a variety of cards at your disposal, your greeting cards needs can be met for years to come. Additionally, Walmart is selling assorted Valentine’s Day greeting cards for a low price of $5. Candy It is no secret that chocolate is the most common, and often most expensive, Valentine’s Day gift. For example, GODIVA’s Assorted Chocolate Gold Gift Box, Valentine’s Day Ribbon, 36 pc. can run a buyer $49.50 without tax. Although their 20 pc. assorted gift box has been marked down to $32, such a purchase is costly. Thus, for those looking for affordable options that are sweet (wink wink) on your wallet, look no further than drugstores. For the next week, CVS will run “$1 off” and “Buy One, Get 50% Off “promotions on all candy. Such promotions not only ensure that your goal of satisfying your significant other’s sweet tooth is achieved but achieved cost-effectively. Dining Between the stress of making reservations months in advance, to actively saving small portions of paychecks to cover the often $110 bill, eating out on Valentine’s Day can be a daunting chore. Nonetheless, should you and your significant other be looking forward to this part of the day, celebrate to your heart’s desire. However, for those who were not fortunate enough to save for the day, research Groupon for special offers on meals. Likewise, research restaurants offering Valentine’s Day specials as well. Should your research prove unsuccessful, consider dining out on February 13th, February 15th, or February 16th. Dining prior to, or after, the holiday may not prove to be such a financial drain. Even though there are opportunities to dine out on a budget, some couples will opt to stay in to avoid the hustle and bustle. Thus, should you or your partner love to cook, go grocery shopping days prior in preparation to cook together. Flowers Synonymous to chocolate, flowers, specifically roses, are another go-to Valentine’s Day gift. However, bouquets of roses are expensive. Therefore, with all things, employing research is important. To start, research the 30-40% off deals offered by the “1-800 Flowers” and “ProFlowers” websites. Should the price leave you cringing as a result of the tax and delivery fees included, play around with flower arrangements. As such, instead of relying solely on roses, create a bouquet of carnations and a few roses. Or, opt for a bouquet of carnations instead which may total $15. Moreover, do not be afraid to purchase flowers from your local grocery store and supermarket which may have considerably marked down prices. Homemade Gift Basket Although aesthetically pleasing, professional gift baskets are costly. Thus, to re-create a basket without emptying your wallet, while showing your partner that you are aware of their favorite things, first find a wicker basket with a handle from any dollar store. Then, begin filling the basket with their favorite things: original blends of coffee, assorted teas, books, candy, DVDs, lotions, socks, and more. Finally, wrap the basket in cellophane (again, from any dollar store), and you are on your way!
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