While J.Lo made it clear years ago that love don’t cost a thing, it’s easy to let costs slip away when you’re trying to please the one you love.
DIY gifts are often much more heartfelt (not to mention cheaper), and if you throw yourself into it, you may end up enjoying the process. Feeling confident? Take it one step further and make a rule that your gifts must be created using items already in the house.
Put your learning skills to the test and knit that scarf you’ve always envisioned. Whip up a fancy dessert or a signature cocktail for you and your fiancé. Wrangle a friend into shooting a boudoir session as a super sexy surprise. When all else fails, you can never go wrong with a mix tape (just try to make it physical; handing someone your computer to browse through their personalized playlist doesn’t exactly have romance written all over it).
If you don’t have the time to dedicate to a craft, plan a DIY date. Pack your favorite nosh, a picnic blanket and create a park-like setting in your home. Take refuge at the most romantic spot in town and watch the sun set (or rise!). Don’t forget the sexiest DIY gift of all–chocolate-covered strawberries.
Set Your Own Schedule
Just because Valentine’s Day falls on February 14 doesn’t mean you’re obligated to celebrate that very day. Swamped with dress fittings or venue tours? Put Valentine’s Day on hold and pencil it in the following weekend, when your schedule is wide open.
Postponing your romantic holiday will not only heighten your anticipation, but also lighten your wallet and stress. Planning an overnight trip or trying a new restaurant will be more affordable, easier, and less crowded if you aim for a date other than February 14.
To get the most out of it, consider Valentine’s Days. Devote an entire day to your "LOVE", planning his/her favorite activities and showering them with love, instead of presents, all day long. Foot rubs, home-cooked meals, a bubble bath, a mid-afternoon nap–whatever your honey’s heart desires. Switch roles the next day and allow yourself to be pampered. While planning your respective days, remember: secrecy can be sexy!
