If you’ve spent much time on the site, you probably know where this article is going. I’ll discuss how Valentine’s Day is another capitalistic holiday in which society tells you to spend more and more money and that if you don’t you clearly don’t love your significant other. I’ll talk about how I personally believe (don’t worry, Mrs. Money Finance supports me on this) that actions speak much louder than words, and that a little creativity can cost much less by going much further and providing a memorable Valentine’s Day!

In 2017, the average consumer spent about $143 on Valentine’s Day. Wow! Now I suppose that’s not completely out of the question for you, depending on your spending habits and if you live in a big city or not. There are definitely places in my city (Atlanta) where I could easily spend $135 on drinks and dinner. Surprisingly though, the article goes on to say that only 35% of couples are planning a night out. Perhaps the other 65% are avid YoungMoneyFinance readers? Wishful thinking, but probably more likely to the rise of takeout and Netflix and chilling. Prices are often higher on Valentine’s Day, whether it’s the fancy chocolate, the pre-set menu at restaurants, or the flowers themselves. I know the flowers piece first hand as one who distanced dated for a while and had to send flowers. I conveniently sent them a day or two early to save money! One time I got creative and did an Edible bouquet – chocolate/fruit disguised as flowers!

Although I’ve not been on this earth for very long, I’ve learned a few things. One of those things is that experiences are in the long run more valuable than merchandise. My wife and I remember fondly experiences – whether it was the time I took her to a Professional Bull Riding event, or a baseball game, or even a simple picnic overlooking the city. Those memories far outlast any bouquet of flowers, box of chocolates or overpriced dinner. I’ve also learned that it’s not often a big bang gift that goes the distance, but several smaller, thoughtful gifts. Mrs. Money would much rather get a few small thoughtful gifts than a big one. Perhaps it’s a small item she’s been mentioning for quite some time but won’t buy it for herself (i.e. those monogrammed boots), or a gift that is thoughtful that she’ll definitely use (i.e. gift card to her favorite donut spot) or something homemade (a card with a heartfelt poem).

You don’t have to go all out and go overboard to impress your significant other. You certainly can (and you’ll pay a premium to do so on Valentine’s Day) if that’s what you feel like doing, but it’s certainly not required! There are always creative ways to not spend money, and they might just go further and be more appreciated than a big bang gift!

Happy Valentine’s Day from YoungMoneyFinance and Mrs. Money Finance! How are we spending our Valentine’s Day? Mr. YMF is out of town on business (much to the disappointment of Mrs. Money) so he’s promised her dinner at our favorite local spot when he returns. Don’t worry; he did get her some surprise chocolate, of her favorite variety!