How to treat your loved ones on a budget

The countdown is now on with Valentine’s Day only a matter of weeks away.

With retailers bombarding us with heart shaped chocolates and stuffed teddy bears, it’s hard to escape the annual pressures of treating your loved ones come February 14^th. 

Times are tough and no matter how much you want to declare your love for someone, splashing the cash comes at a price. 

Here are some cheap tricks to treat your loved ones on a budget. 

1. Do it yourself 

Sweet and simple, there’s nothing like a hand-made gift to stir the heartstrings.  Avoid expensive cards and make your own with a few bits of coloured card, glitter, glue and a dash of effort.

Pour your heart out into a handmade gift which is tailored and totally unique for your loved one. If crafting and creating is a skill you lack, don’t worry. They will certainly appreciate the gesture and, as the old saying goes, it is the thought that counts. 

2. Cook

Why book an expensive restaurant or spend large sums on food, drinks and taxis when you can make the same effort and enjoy the same company in the comfort of your own home.

Take the time to cook your loved one’s favourite meal. Really make them feel special by making sure you have the place to yourself with no potential dinner interruptions from noisy children or hungry housemates. 

3. Vouchers 

There is an abundance of websites that offer discounted activity days, spa days, mini breaks, hotels and dinners. By spending some time hunting around for cheap deals, you can still enjoy a day of go kart racing or fine dining, but at a much more attractive price.

These often have to be booked in advance, so why not buy it now and book for a later date. If there is no special celebration due in the near future it will make the day seem much more spontaneous. 

Moneyextra.com recommends you take independent financial advice before acting on any article

2012-02-02 16:37:03 © Moneyextra.com