Valentine’s Day is here, and while the focus is on love, let’s talk about something just as important—money. Because nothing says romance like an overdraft notice, right?
The Cost of Love (or Lack of Planning)
Flowers, chocolates, overpriced prix-fixe menus—February 14th is an economic powerhouse, and the stakes are high. Americans are expected to spend billions on Valentine’s Day this year. Some will get it right, but for others, a failure to plan might mean an empty wallet and an annoyed significant other.
Want to win Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank? Let’s start with the Don’ts:
The Top Three Financial Mistakes of Valentine’s Day:
- The Last-Minute Grocery Store Grab: Those gas station roses and grocery store chocolates scream, “You are special,” aka I forgot until my drive home. If this is your plan, then at least call and ask if there is anything your significant other needs you to pick up at the grocery store. It might minimize the impact of your lack of planning.
- Overpriced Set Menus: Valentine’s dinner at a packed restaurant is a little like holiday air travel—overbooked, overpriced, and filled with regret. If you insist on a romantic dinner, be creative. Buy matching aprons and cook at home (splurge on a great bottle of champagne instead), or celebrate a day early when service isn’t rushed, and the steak doesn’t taste like a hockey puck.
- The “This Is Really for Me” Gift: Lingerie is lovely, but if it’s more about what you want than what they want, it’s not really a gift—it’s a request. Flip the script and give something that genuinely benefits them.
Innovative Ways to Say “I Love You” (Without Wrecking Your Finances)
- Make It Personal: A handwritten note beats a store-bought card any day. Express what you love about your partner in your own words. If you need inspiration, think of three things they’ve done recently that made you smile.
- A Gift That Grows: Instead of cut flowers that will wilt in days, plant a tree, a rose bush, or a garden together. Is it too cold now? Create a garden plan together and look forward to the joy of nurturing it. It’s a lasting investment in your relationship (and your backyard).
- The Deferred Celebration: Valentine’s Day is just a date on the calendar. Pick another day for a getaway, a fancy dinner, or a meaningful experience. Your relationship doesn’t depend on Hallmark’s marketing schedule.
- The Gift of Financial Security: This may not sound romantic, but love and money go hand in hand. If you share finances, use this day to check your shared goals. Do you have a savings plan for that dream vacation, home, or retirement? Talking about money may not be sexy, but financial security sure is.
Valentine’s Day isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about how much thought you put into it. So, please plan, spend wisely, and make it count because nothing ruins romance faster than a maxed-out credit card. Your thoughtful planning will show your partner how much you care.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
