How much do you spend on Valentine’s Day? Chocolates, flowers, dinner for two? The totals can rack up, and in these tough economic times, can we justify such expense so soon after one day?

We’re not trying to be unromantic, infact we love love…… but perhaps you can celebrate this Valentine’s Day without incurring thousand of naira.

No one will hold it against you if you resort to some cost-effective creativity in the name of love and frugality. We’ve rounded up some of the best ideas for a Valentine’s Day on a budget – which won’t break the bank, or anyone’s heart.

Spend Time Together

Why not plan a day out together as a Valentine’s treat? This doesn’t need to be expensive or elaborate. How about finding free art galleries or museums to visit? Taking time to go for a long walk? Or doing all of the household chores in advance, so that you can spend the weekend watching movies and relaxing?

The Romantic Meal for Two before or after

If you feel that the romantic meal out for two is an obligatory part of the celebrations, then there are ways to go out without spending a small fortune. You could also consider “moving the date.” Aside from Valentine’s Day, February is a relatively quiet period for restaurants. By celebrating Valentine’s a few days early or late, you may well be able to dine out for a fraction of the price.

Staying in

You could have the romantic meal for two without being crushed into a restaurant full of other couples. What about staying in this Valentine’s Day? If you’re a hopeless cook, fear not.  Find a high-end grocery store that offers a take home meal and serve by candlelight with a bottle of good wine. (Not champagne of course, we are on a budget.) The comfort of your own home and the absence of other diners may well make this is a preferable option in terms of cost and ambiance.

Scrap the Card

Is there a more overpriced piece of paper than a Valentine’s Day card? We’re not suggesting you don’t send one altogether, but you can save a lot by making your own. Don’t worry if creativity is not your strong point. A homemade thing is always nicer than a bought option.

Make the Gift

How about taking the time to make a Valentine’s gift this year. How about writing down 10 things you love about your partner on a sheet of paper and sticking it somewhere they will see it first thing in the morning, such as inside their wardrobe or on the bathroom mirror? Or you could bake a cake, make a memory box of ticket stubs and photos, write a poem, or create a simple scrapbook of the past year’s memories. That way you’ll be giving a gift that your partner will remember throughout the year.

The truth is Valentine’s Day is about spending time with the person you love and not enriching the pockets of card companies, flower delivery firms and restaurants. It really is the thought that counts, and with these ideas you can have a cheap but cheerful Valentine’s Day this year.