How to Have a Frugal Valentine’s Day (Guest Post)

Ah Valentine’s Day, the day to declare our undying devotion and love to the special someone in our lives. The media would have us believe that the only way we can show our love is by emptying our pocket books as we purchase diamond rings, dozens of roses and expensive Belgian chocolates. What’s a frugal Romeo or Juliet to do? Here are some ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank.

• Wow your sweetheart with a special dinner – their favorite meal prepared by you. Cover the table with a table cloth (a solid colored sheet will work in an emergency.) Add a few candles to the table and a single rose or carnation as a centerpiece. Put on some soft, romantic music in the background and you’ll feel as though you are being serenaded in a fancy restaurant for a fraction of the cost. You can go all out with your Valentine dinner or keep it simple. Only you know what your true love really appreciates.
  
• For those of you in the warmer areas, pack a picnic lunch instead of a special dinner. Spread a blanket on the ground and share a romantic picnic lunch in your backyard or a public park. Pack some romantic finger foods like grapes, cheese & crackers, strawberries dipped in chocolate, etc. and declare your undying love while feeding her these delicacies.
• Speaking of delicacies, what Valentine’s Day would be complete without some sinfully rich chocolate treats? Don’t give your money to your local chocolate shop when you can whip up some fancy treats in your own kitchen.

• Chocolate Covered Strawberries
• 1 or 2 dark chocolate or milk chocolate candy bars
• Enough strawberries to satisfy that sweet tooth
•  Bring a pan of water to boil on the stove. Break up the candy bar into small pieces and put them in a glass bowl. Set the glass bowl into the pan of water being careful that it does not tip and gently stir the chocolate until it is melted. Dip each strawberry into the chocolate and put on wax paper. Refrigerate until the chocolate sets and then enjoy!
Make your sweetheart a coupon book good for a special service you can provide. Some coupon ideas include home baked cookies, I’ll do your chores for a week, a special massage, etc. Let your imagination be your guide and he’ll remember this Valentine’s Day each time he redeems one of your coupons. Create your own special Valentine’s Day card. Using a few sheets of red paper and a doily you can find at your local craft or dollar store, you can give a Valentine’s Day card that is all you. Why not write a special poem or a heartfelt sentiment on the inside of the card. <

If your Valentine’s Day includes some quiet alone time with your special someone, don’t forget to schedule a massage and a sensuous bubble bath. Add some soft romantic music and some scented candles, dim the lights and set the mood. Make this a Valentine’s Day your love will never forget.


Ellen is a married mom of two who blogs at Confessions of an Overworked Mom where she supports self sufficiency, natural organic living, eco friendly, going green, time saving gourmet products.

Thank you Ellen!