Valentine’s Day Without the Diamonds

Early on in a relationship, many people expect extravagant dinners and diamonds on Valentine’s Day. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to show you care, says Cherie Lowe, author of Slaying the Debt Dragon. “Don’t be cheap with your love. Instead, find ways to display just how much you care by making your own gifts.” Make your own cards, she suggests, or write a longer, more heartfelt letter. Bake cookies or prepare your partner’s favorite meal. Finish a household fix-it project without being asked. On this holiday, the clichés often ring true: It is the thought that counts, so make memories that last a lifetime.

Thrifty, Belated Valentine’s Day Ideas

Still shopping for a (late) Valentine’s Day gift? There are lots of ways to save without looking cheap. If you’re buying flowers, the local supermarket often has blooms that are as good as any you can have delivered at a much cheaper price. Want to slash costs on dinner while keeping the romance alive? Stage a picnic in front of the fireplace. And if you need to buy jewelry, don’t worry about the size of the rock; set a budget and pick something beautiful.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Creativity

Everyone remembers making Valentine’s Day cards out of pink and red construction paper as kids, and you can keep crafting to add a little romance to your gifts and décor as an adult, Martha Stewart says. It’s easy to add cutout paper and felt hearts to windows, place settings, cards, wrapping paper, clothing and more. Whether you’re dating or already married with children, you can observe the season with a dash of creativity.

Roses Are Red (And Other Colors)

When roses are red, Reader’s Digest says, they indicate love and romance. But did you know that other colors can relay other messages? Yellow roses convey friendship, while white roses indicate purity, so they may not be the best options for Valentine’s Day. Lavender roses indicate love at first sight, though, and orange roses indicate passion and desire. The final word, however, is whichever the recipient likes best.

A Valentine’s Day Donation

Show our veterans some love this Valentine’s Day by donating your gently used clothes, books, kitchen utensils, and more. Your donation helps fund our veterans programs. Simply visit our website, schedule a donation pick-up time, and we’ll come by to take these items off your hands!