Sunday, 08 February 2009

• Frugal, Romantic and Creative Valentine's Day Gifts

  I'm not crazy about V-Day, but I do understand that it's an fun and romantic day for many couples. I figure that with such straining economic times, extra expenses might be a little too much for some people, so I've compiled a list of five cute (and slightly sappy) yet wallet-friendly gift ideas.

  Here are some suggestions:

  1. Simple Flowers - "Roses are red violets are blue" is unexciting. So are long-stemmed, high end bouquets. Unfortunately, in the end, all flowers get tossed in the trash so why waste good money on temporary items? Budding potted plants (definitely not going in the garbage), daisies, daffodils, and carnations say "you're amazing" just as much. If you're really into roses, ONE red rose will do just fine. It seems classier, more mysterious and more lovely for some reason (e.g. Beauty and the Beast, The Bachelor, etc). If you're considering less expensive flowers, the most important part of the gift is the delivery. Surprise him/her at work/school or leave one at each of your favorite couples spots (sort of like a mini scavenger hunt). Turn a tiny gift into a meaningful adventure!
  

  2. A Love Letter - Timeless and sensitive, a love letter goes a long way. It expresses truth and appreciation, and although many people probably won't admit it, most everyone secretly desires one. Avoid vague and drawn-out metaphors. Speak from the heart. Relate to your significant other. Mention funny inside jokes and your fondest memories of that person. Explain why you adore him/her. If you're going for the love letter approach, don't just rattle off some petty note. Keep the handwriting prim and proper, use ink, find beautiful stationary, and include a noteworthy signature at the end. And since we're living in the 21st century, an mp3 of the best love songs ever can be attached as a soundtrack as he/she reads it! A love letter is a frugal gift in terms of price but that doesn't mean it should lack quality, dedication, and heart-felt intentions!

  3. A Romantic Coupon Booklet - This isn't the chore coupon booklet you made for your mom in second grade. Some coupon ideas you can use are One Picnic in the Park, One Massage, One Delicious Dinner, One Big Bear Hug, etc. Honestly, it sounds a bit cliched but it's so adorable. Many people will appreciate the intimacy of such a gift.

  4. A Zoo Trip - This sounds so random. I know. Still, it's fairly inexpensive and there's something so cheerful about strolling through the zoo, hand in hand with your "honey". Is it the animals? The monkeys? The fierce lions? Is it being outside and just skipping traditional methods and enjoying the day in a carefree way? I mean, how many days do people actually get to go to the zoo, especially when they are stuck in the 9-5 weekday mode? Visit the kiosk for information. Grab a map. Adopt a stuffed animal souvenir from the gift shop. Rest on the bench with a tasty snack. Take silly photos. Feed the animals. Laugh. Let loose. You're at the zoo with each other. "Fun" is the key word here!

  5. Volunteer Together - It might not be a canoe ride in the lake or a fireside fine wine-sipping moment (aka the sexiest plan in the world), but agreeing to spend Valentine's Day together doing good in the world is sweeter than any trite box of chocolates. There is no finer way to express love for each other than to show how much you love other people and your community. You're together. You're helping out. You're spreading the joy in such a remarkable way. Agreeing on a non-profit organization/cause only reinforces your ability to communicate and to find out more about each other. It's such an amazing experience to share with one another, and the memories you create on this simple day will certainly strengthen your bond as a couple.

  Overall, Valentine's Day doesn't mean you need to max out your credit card or go wild with the spending. It's a time when you can display affection toward someone you love and care for (doesn't necessarily have to be a romantic partner). Enjoy!

  Any ideas for inexpensive yet personal gifts?
  

  • 1:20 PM
  • 6202 Views
  • 82 eProps
  • 43 Comments