Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and you may want to impress your partner with extravagant gifts and impressive dinner. However, denting your finances for the month is not the best idea.
There are alternative, equally meaningful ways to demonstrate your affection, whether on the day itself or throughout the year. We consider some of these.
Tip: Avoid overspending and overindebtedness. Click here to consolidate your debt.
The cost of Valentine's Day
If you’re adamant that you’d like to buy spoils for the day for your Valentine, it’s important to shop around. Bear in mind that many retailers increase their prices, so shop early if you can.
You can generally bag a dozen roses from Woolworths for a little as R109.99, however, more extravagant arrangements can cost R169 or more.
A dozen white roses from Netflorist will set you back by approximately R350, but there are fancier arrangements that come with vases or baskets, as well as chocolates and other treats. Rose Café has a red bouquet that costs R380.
You can also try visiting websites that offer deals on restaurants, spas and hotels. Be sure to phone ahead and check that you can use your chosen deal on Valentine's Day, and if you can, book your space.
Tips for saving money on Valentine's Day
The following ideas can save you money on, and in the lead up to, the day.
- If you’re going to buy flowers, consider buying something other than roses, or perhaps in an alternative colour to red. The price of red roses over Valentine's Day is exorbitant, and the flowers will wilt and die within a few days no matter how much you spend on them. Try buying your loved one’s favourite flower (supposing it isn’t roses!), or picking flowers from your garden and wrapping them beautifully, instead.
- Celebrate Valentine's Day the day before or after. Luxury items and services may well be cheaper, especially after the day.
- Have a picnic. The Pick n Pay website traditionally lists ideas to help you plan the perfect Valentine's picnic. This is less costly than going to a restaurant and it can be very romantic. Just make sure when selecting your venue that you factor in any admission costs.
- Have dinner in. Surprise your loved one with their favourite meal prepared at home by you. It will be more special because you took the time to prepare everything yourself.
- Plan a movie night. Stream or source a DVD of your loved one's favourite romantic movie and prepare snacks and meals that can be eaten while you are cuddling on the couch watching the film together.
- Rather than splurging money on a gimmicky trinket that will end up at the bottom of a draw, take the time to make a card or gift. The time and love that went into making it will be appreciated.
- Set a budget and stick to it. Even though it’s Valentine's Day, don't go overboard.
Eunice Sibiya, head of First National Bank's consumer education division, says "Make sure as a couple you know your monthly budget for going out for the month. You don't need to reveal all your budget details, but come to an understanding of what you can afford."
- If you and your partner take turns paying for meals or outings, don’t be afraid to remind your partner when it’s their turn to pay.
“This can be done in a loving and caring way, and could be the difference between surviving the month or having to live off credit," says Sibiya.
"Honest conversations on any matter, especially finances, are invaluable and can avoid bitterness, irritability, and money fights later on."
Be on the lookout for specials
In the run-up to Valentine's Day, retailers advertise sales and specials on items that are touted to demonstrate your love. These may include flowers, chocolates and other gifts and trinkets.
If you want to purchase a present - because who doesn’t love a gift? - then make sure you pair it with a memorable event or just a good day together. The experience can create memories that far outweigh the value of the gift you’ve chosen.