While some may consider this a hot take, I mean it when I say that Valentine’s Day is my favorite holiday. I love celebrating those I love, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate my romantic partner, family, and best friends. However, in this economy, going all out and spending hundreds of dollars on stereotypical Valentine’s Day activities like a fancy brunch or an extravagant gift isn’t possible sometimes. Don’t get me wrong, I agree that it’s a corporatized holiday that glamorizes unnecessary spending, but I’m not going to allow my small budget, anti-capitalist mindset to dim my sparkle! There are so many ways to meaningfully celebrate this special day without hurting your pockets, and this is how I’m planning on having the best Valentine’s Day ever without spending too much.
Ask yourself: do I need this?
Saving money during holiday season can be difficult, especially in a society that encourages mass consumption and the idea that “things” will make you happier. Think about how many small decorations and holiday junk that ultimately end up in the landfill. If you go into any thrift store, there will be walls filled with Christmas, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, and St. Patrick’s Day decorations; whatever the season is, the thrift stores will display their selections for the upcoming holiday.
Every month of the year has something to decorate for. Thinking about how many decorations go in the trash or to a thrift store, just so we can buy the next newest thing, puts into perspective how wasteful we can be. While buying new, fun decorations is inarguably one of my guilty pleasures, I always ask myself: do I need this? Spoiler alert: the answer is always no. The cheap, single-season use decorations are rarely made ethically, so if you want to buy something new, make sure it’ll last! As long as you’re not being wasteful this season, you’ll help the planet and save money!
In: date night or soiree at home. Out: $100 brunch or dinner.
I love an extravagant outing as much as the next girl. However, when I’m on a budget, this just isn’t possible. Food and alcohol are typically triple the price at a restaurant compared to the grocery store, and activities such as going to the movies or a pottery studio are really expensive nowadays. If you want to save money and still have a nice date with your partner or your besties, it’s possible to do for a low cost.
If you’re over 21 years old and want endless mimosas, host a cocktail party! While the atmosphere of going out may be appealing, there’s no reason you can’t create the same cozy atmosphere at home. Buying a few bottles of champagne and your favorite juice is significantly cheaper than spending money on overpriced drinks. Shopping for snacks and supplies with your partner or besties can be super fun, so pick out your favorite foods and have a night in! All you need is something to share, and making food at home is so much more cost effective. Cooking with your partner is fun and romantic, and there are so many different things you can create together. Get creative and try a new recipe or build a beautiful charcuterie board! Aldi has affordable groceries, as well as $5 wine, so while going out to eat is tempting, saving money and still eating delicious foods is more up my alley. One of the date nights I’m excited to participate in is making heart shaped pizzas; it’s SO cute, creative, and costs less than $10. Whether it’s cooking, drinking, or crafting, there are always ways to make it more affordable at home. Remember that you don’t have to drop hundreds of dollars just to enjoy a fun activity, drink, or meal with those you love.
Take advantage of FREE on-campus events!
MSU has so many adorable Valentine’s and Galentine’s events to choose from. The Michigan State University University Activities Board hosts frequent events throughout the year and they often offer cool prizes. The best part? It’s completely free. Student organizations across campus also host events around this time of year, so get involved and take advantage of what there is to offer! For example, MSU’s chapter of Her Campus hosts a Galentine’s Day event, which is free for members. Other clubs have events open to all students, so ask around to see what you can find.
Communication is key
FOMO is real. If you’re struggling financially, but still want to join in Valentine’s or Galentine’s activities, be honest about your situation. Regardless of who you’re celebrating with, work together on a plan that’s fun for everyone. Don’t let anyone pressure you into buying an expensive gift or going on an expensive outing when you don’t have the means to do so. Sometimes, the most special gifts are the ones that are made with love and don’t cost over $50. There’s always a way to find common ground, as this holiday is about love and appreciation, not the perfect gift. Communicate your needs and don’t compromise your financial situation for the sake of pleasing others.
If you’re balling on a budget, there’s no reason you can’t still celebrate the people in your life that care for you. Remember to make sustainable choices, plan cost effective activities, take advantage of the free events on campus, and communicate how you’re feeling with others. Take the time to love yourself and those around you this Valentine’s Day. At the end of the day, that’s what matters.