Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and for us college students who want to join in on the lovey-dovey spirit without breaking the bank, I have compiled a list of budget-friendly ideas to make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.
Going out to an elegant restaurant for a fancy dinner seems to be the classic option, but if you want to avoid long wait times, overpriced food, and paying that twenty percent tip (which you should always do), there are plenty of affordable alternatives that are equally, if not more, enjoyable.
One way to bond with your partner to make a Valentine’s Day you’ll never forget is to cook a meal together or for one another. There are thousands of recipes available at your fingertips. With TikTok and Instagram reels, it is easier than ever to whip up something delicious in your kitchen. When you sit down and taste the dish the two of you created, you will either feel surprised and accomplished at the cooking skills you may have just discovered, or you will immediately laugh at the poorly executed dish that Chef Ramsey will never have the pleasure of calling rubbish.
For those of us who don’t want to expose our ineptitude for cooking to our partner, there are other ways to enjoy a tasty dinner at a reasonable price. To match the romantic spirit of the day, consider ordering a heart-shaped pizza from your favorite pizzeria. Pizza is always the best go-to option for a wonderful, tasty, and affordable meal.
Nothing pairs better with staying in than watching a movie cuddled up with your loved one. Movies you should consider this Valentine’s Day include No Hard Feelings, Crazy Stupid Love, and of course, The Notebook. If you’re interested in heading to the cinema, Anyone But You is the perfect rom-com to catch this Valentine’s Day.
Let’s not forget the quintessential Valentine’s Day tradition – exchanging gifts. While it may sound a bit cliché, the meaning lies not in the monetary value of the gift but in the heartfelt sentiment behind it. This rings especially true for college students, where extravagant presents may not be within our financial means. Luckily, The Dollar Tree has you covered on the staple of Valentine’s Daychocolates and Trader Joe’s has a notoriously beautiful and inexpensive flower selection.
With all that being said, Valentine’s Day is truly about spending time with that one special person in your life. It does not take emptying your wallet to have an unforgettable Valentine’s Day. You can participate in a lavish dinner or opt for a cozy night in; as long as you are able to enjoy the company of the person you care so much about, you are sure to have an amazing Valentine’s Day this year.