After the groundhog sees or does not see his shadow, we set our sights on Valentine’s Day. Unfortunately, many people tie romance with money, so Valentine’s Day is connected to spending a lot of money. Some might suggest the more you love your significant other, the more money you would spend on them. In this episode, Gary & Christy challenge that kind of thinking and provide alternative things to keep in mind when choosing a gift for someone you love.

1. Set expectations, either by directly stating your intentions to celebrate the day or by dropping hints about your plans.
2. Make sure it’s affordable. This might require some creativity, but it’s very possible to celebrate your love in a budget-friendly way.
3. Avoid comparison. It’s the thief of joy.
4. Make sure you’ll both like it. This holiday could be the time you spent focusing on something you both have wanted to do but never had the chance.
5. Make it personal.

Episode Resources

• Here are some various gift ideas for Valentine’s Day with a budget-friendly focus:
  • https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/finance/valentines-day-gifts-shopping-tips/
  • https://www.moneyunder30.com/budget-friendly-gift-ideas-for-valentines-day
  • https://www.smartaboutmoney.org/Topics/Family-and-Finances/Love-and-Money/Cheap-and-Free-Valentines-Day-Ideas
  • https://www.moneycrashers.com/valentines-day-gift-ideas-her/
  • https://www.moneycrashers.com/valentines-day-gift-ideas-him/