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With Valentine’s day rapidly approaching, here are some budget friendly suggestions to keep this occasion all about the love. These tips could easily be applied to other occasions such as anniversaries and birthdays, especially during these Pandemic times. Creativity is key and there’s no need to spend a lot to have an enjoyable experience and create memories that can last a lifetime.

• Cook a nice meal at home – Instead of worrying about reservations and restaurant mark-ups splurge a little on some nice steak or perhaps a bottle of wine. Now could also be a great time to make that time-consuming recipe that you love but never seem to find the time for. If you’re feeling extra adventurous investigate ordering a meal service and cook a new recipe with your loved one. Most meal services have discounts for first orders and the ingredients come pre-portioned, so it saves a lot of time on shopping and preparation.

• Skip the store-bought gifts – Perhaps you have a real knack for card making or sewing. There are also lots of ways to use items from around your home to make all sorts of body scrubs and face masks. Why not turn your home into a spa experience? You don’t even have to be crafty to come up with a great gift that only comes with the cost of your time. If you’re great with words why not try your hand at a poem? If you have kids perhaps treat your significant other to a day of relaxation while you take care of the household. Sometimes the smallest gestures can have the biggest impacts.

• Go for a walk or a hike – Ditch your devices and other distractions and spend some time connecting in the outdoors. Pack a lunch and take a few hours to enjoy each other’s company. If it’s still a little too cold for outdoor activities, grab a coffee and do some window shopping.

• Give your home an update - If you’re wanting to spruce up your home watch some DIY videos or checkout Pinterest to get the creative juices flowing. There are lots of projects that you can do for a minimal cost. Keep an eye out on online marketplaces for furniture pieces you could refurbish, or leftover flooring and paint from someone else’s renovation that you can put to good use. Check-out your local hardware store for clearance items and discontinued products as you can often find a great deal.

• Try an online event – As many companies have gone virtual look for an online class to participate in. There are many available for a wide variety of interests. If you’re creative, try a painting or craft making class. Perhaps you’d like to add to your kitchen skills with a cooking or baking class. If you’re looking for more social interaction there’s also online wine tasting, trivia and many more options.

• Plan for future fun – With options to travel and gather in groups limited right now it’s a great time to take the money you would have otherwise spent on the various occasions over the year and put it towards a future trip or bigger ticket item you’ve been wanting. Planning on what you’ll spend the money on later can also be a fun exercise and start some great conversation about household finances and spending priorities.