Saving On Valentine's Day

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I thought I would post on ways you can enjoy it without breaking the bank.

Gift Ideas
For significant other:
Many stores have sales this week on their Valentine's Day chocolates and stuffed animals. CVS has Kodak Movie DVDs on sale this week for $9.99 (save $5.00 on printable coupon from coupons.com) - you could always put one of those together with pictures from past to present. If you want to stay clear of store bought items, why not bake brownies, cookies, or a cake? You could always head to the Dollar Tree to pick up a nice tin to put them in. Then add in some creative gift cards redeemable for a free massage, car cleaning, special homemade breakfast, cuddle time... As for the card, make it yourself or head to the dollar store where you can get 2 for $1.

For kids, how about a book, movie or even gift cards redeemable to you? You could also do the above-mentioned things.

Stay In
Save money by making your favorite restaurant meal at home by candle light. After dinner, enjoy a movie on the cheap - Redbox $1 rental (check the codes before heading out - it might end up being free)or visit your library for free movie rentals. You could always pull out board games or cards.

Going Out
If you are heading out to dinner on Valentine's Day, check to see if a restaurant that you like or the one you are going to has gift certificates listed on Restaurant.com. You can get a $25 gift certificate for just $4...you can print them, you don't have to wait for them to be mailed.

Also, check to see if the restaurant you are heading out to had a newsletter or club to sign up for. They usually will send a free appetizer or dessert coupon. Like this coupon to Friday's for a BOGO entree (this one can't be used on Valentine's day though). Save on dessert by splitting one, head out to a bakery/ice cream shop for dessert or make your own at home.

Check your Entertainment Book. If the restaurant is in there but the coupon isn't valid on Saturday nights and you are in need of a sitter, why not go out a different night and switch off babysitting with a friend.

Babysitter
If you have younger kids at home and want to spend the evening out, you will need to find a babysitter. What about a family member or a friend? Maybe offer to do something for them or watch their kids. Does a friend have a teenager that would like to make a few extra bucks? Check with your local YMCA too. Our YMCA is offering a Parents' Night Out on Saturday.

Flowers
Forget about flowers.

Breakfast
If you are planning on going out without the kids, why not make breakfast for the kids? Heart shaped pancakes and sausage. You could also use food coloring on the pancakes to make them pink or red.