February 11, 2019 With Valentine’s Day around the corner, love is in the air and bank accounts are on high alert. While over half of Americans celebrate the Hallmark holiday, the average person will spend $143.56 on gifts. That means U.S. consumers will spend a total of $19.6 billion on Feb. 14. Despite what the candy, floral and jewelry industries say, it’s possible to have a romantic Valentine’s Day without overspending. Check out these five gift ideas to spoil your valentine, for $25 or less. 1. Say no to reservations. Nearly one-third of Americans plan on dining out for the holiday. So avoid the crowds, stress, and high costs, and opt to cook dinner at home instead. Not only is it less expensive, but you and your partner can have a blast preparing a meal together. Want to take it to the next level of romance? Dress up, light some candles and break out the bubbly (or sparkling water) for a truly memorable evening. Estimated Cost: $25 2. DIY sweet treats. Did you know that more than 58 million pounds of chocolate are sold each year for Valentine’s Day? Most Americans elect for the highly processed, heart-shaped boxes of chocolate covered candies, which are usually overpriced and not all that enjoyable. Instead, pick your favorite desserts, gather the ingredients and make your sweet treats from the convenience of your kitchen. Estimated Cost: $25 3. Handmade keepsakes. Roses have always been a classic way to express love, but they’re also expensive and an overbought go-to. In fact, 110 million roses are sold in the U.S. during Valentine’s Day, costing an average of $60 per bouquet. Instead of buying cliché flowers, craft a handmade gift. Anything from a framed photo of you and your loved one, to a customized jar, highlighting why you love them, are great keepsakes to consider. Gifts that are made — not purchased — are also a surefire way to tug at the heartstrings. Estimated Cost: $10 – $20 4. Have a spa day. A luxurious trip to the spa is the ultimate way to pamper your sweetheart. But the complete package (massage, skin care, and manicure) can cost upwards of $150. Alternatively, you could host a personal spa night at home, with you as the masseuse. This way your partner gets to overindulge without breaking the bank. Estimated Cost: $0 – $10 5. Spread the love. Maybe you and your valentine value experiences over gifts. In lieu of pricey dates, volunteer for an organization that means something to both of you. Volunteering your time can result in an unforgettable experience that will help you spread the love not only to each other, but your whole community. Estimated Cost: $0 Related Posts Five Fun and Inexpensive Date Ideas Seven Cost-Saving Date Ideas to Create the Perfect Valentine’s Day Top Five Denver Neighborhoods for First Time Home Buyers