Valentine's Day

Ask the Readers: What Are Your Tips for a Frugal Valentine's Day?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 09:30:12 +0000

Retailers want you to think that you need to shower your special someone with expensive gifts on Valentine's Day, but there are plenty of ways to celebrate love without emptying out your wallet.

What are your tips for a frugal Valentine's Day? Is there something that you're willing to splurge on for this holiday? What would you appreciate most for Valentine's Day?

Tell us your tips for a frugal Valentine's Day and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

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Contest ends Monday, February 17th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. Winners will be announced after February 17th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
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You must be 18 and U.S. resident to enter. Void where prohibited.

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Tell us your tips for a frugal Valentine's Day and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Ask the Readers: What Is Your Idea of a Perfect Valentine's Day?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 09:30:09 +0000

Editor's Note: Congratulations to Sylvia, Sandy, and P for winning this week's contest!

For Valentine's Day, retailers want to sell you on the "whole package:" flowers, jewelry, a fancy dinner, and whatever they happen to be selling. But every relationship is unique, as is each person's idea of a perfect Valentine's Day.

What is your idea of a perfect Valentine's Day? Where would you be, and what would you do? Would you spend it with anyone other than your significant other, such as your kids, other family, or close friends?

Tell us your idea of a perfect Valentine's Day and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We're doing three giveaways — here's how you can win:

Follow us on Twitter
Tweet about our giveaway for an entry.
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Follow @janetonthemoney on Twitter.

Use our Rafflecopter widget for your chance to win one of three Amazon Gift Cards:

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Giveaway Rules:

Contest ends Monday, February 18th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. Winners will be announced after February 18th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered, or associated with Facebook or Twitter.
You must be 18 and U.S. resident to enter. Void where prohibited.

Good Luck!

Tell us your idea of a perfect Valentine's Day and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

7 Ways Being Single is Better for Your Bank Account

Paul Michael — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 09:30:08 +0000

Valentine's Day is once again fast approaching. People in relationships are saving up to treat their partner to something special. And for those seeking romance, it's a great opportunity to drop a few hints with a card and candy. But for the millions of people who are single, this time of year can really suck.

If you fall into the latter category, take heart. You may not be part of a couple, but your bank account will adore you. Here's why.

1. Valentine's Day is a money suck

Romance is big business in America, and retailers will do everything they can to get you opening your wallet. In 2017, USA Today found that Americans spent over $18 billion on the day for lovers.

Think about all the good that money could have done; schools, hospitals, care for sick people. Instead, it was spent on overpriced roses, chocolates, teddy bears, jewelry, fancy meals, and lingerie. This equates to the average consumer spending around $137 on February 14, although clearly some people are spending way more.

If you're single and like the idea of chocolates and flowers, wait until the day after. They'll be reduced by 50 to 75 percent (or more in some cases) for the exact same products. (See also: 14 Ways to Spend Less Money on Valentine's Day)

2. Your food budget goes a lot further

When you're shopping for two, you spend a lot more than when you're on your own. For a start, the chances of you both loving all the same foods is slim. Speaking from personal experience, I can meal prep the same food that I love for the whole week and eat it every night. It's cheap, it's balanced, and it suits me just fine. In a couple, that was a complete no-go. The same meal every night? No way. That means more ingredients, more recipes, and more money.

What's more, dining out as a single person is not as attractive a proposition as dining with a partner, so less is spent on restaurants and other eateries. And when you do eat out alone, you're spending at least half as much. Couples have a tendency to splurge on wine, desserts, and so on. When you're eating alone, you don't want to linger for as long, and that means less time to eat, drink, and spend. Those savings are delicious.

3. Weddings aren't cheap

If you're fretting about the couples around you that are planning to get married, this little statistic should ease the pain considerably: According to The Knot, the average cost of a wedding in the USA in 2016 was a staggering $35,329.

That is up $2,688 from 2015, which means you can expect that average to be even higher this year. After the cost of food and wine, renting a venue, a DJ or band, flowers, cake, invitations, photographs, and favors, the average price per guest rose to $245.

That's right, you're spending that much for each and every guest you invite. And let's not forget the cost of the wedding dress, the ring, and the expensive honeymoon after the big day. You can easily kick-start married life with over $40,000 in debt. Consider that next time you see a couple walk down the aisle.

4. You have time to focus on your career and your finances

Relationships eat up time. There's just no getting around that fact. Of course, people in happy relationships will point out that it's exactly the reason they're seeing someone; they want to spend time in the company of someone they love, and why wouldn't they? But this has to come with a sacrifice, and usually it's the career and the ability to make money that suffers.

The relationship will take a hit if one of you is working late night after night, or canceling plans at the weekend to pitch on new business. Guilt sets in, and instead of devoting time to a higher salary and new opportunities, it becomes the norm to spend free time eating out, going to movies, and taking weekend trips to the mountains or the beach. That means instead of using your free time to earn money, you're using it to spend money. (See also: 13 Ways to Make Money From Valentine's Day)

5. No more spending money on gifts

Aside from Valentine's Day, there are plenty of other dates on the calendar that make you spend money. Birthdays, anniversaries, and major holidays will hit you in the bank account throughout the year. Depending on what your partner is into, these gifts can set you back hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars. Forget the watches, clothes, gadgets, and gift cards, and instead save the money. Or, buy yourself something you've always wanted. (See also: 12 Fun Facts About Valentine's Day Spending)

6. Vacations are cheaper alone

Most couples like to do things the traditional (and expensive) way when they go on vacation. A hotel room, rental car, taxis, shows, restaurants, and bars are usually part of the mix. But when you're single, your options open up considerably, and the cost of your vacation can drop dramatically.

For a start, as a single traveler, a site like Couchsurfing can be a huge money-saver, and it's also a great way to meet other people and make new friends. You could also use Airbnb to find a bedroom in a local house that is way cheaper than a hotel room. You don't have to compromise on anything. Eat the food you want. Go where you want. Spend as little as you want. Single travelers have much more freedom, and way more options available. When you have more options, you have more opportunities to save money.

7. Two people means double the debt

The average person with credit card debt owes $5,331 on their cards, according to CreditDonkey. When you become part of a serious relationship, and get married, you combine the debts you owe. That means you are now responsible for twice what you were before.

Admittedly, you probably have two salaries (although not every couple has two incomes), but it can become daunting to look at the combined debts you have to pay off. As a single person, your debts are your own. And you can choose to live very frugally to pay off your debts, which can be a lot more difficult to do when your partner doesn't want to eat ramen and eggs four times a week.

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Ask the Readers: How Do You Celebrate Valentine's Day Affordably?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 09:30:05 +0000

Editor's Note: Congratulations to Cedric, Terra, and Jennifer for winning this week's contest!

Valentine's Day is another one of those holidays where it's easy to spend a fortune — on dining, gifts, and elaborate proclamations of love. However, people on a budget have figured out ways to express their love without breaking the bank.

How do you celebrate Valentine's Day affordably? Do you have budget-friendly Valentine's Day traditions? Is there anything you're comfortable splurging on for this holiday?

Tell us how you celebrate Valentine's Day affordably and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We're doing three giveaways — here's how you can win:

Follow us on Twitter
Follow our Executive Editor Janet Alvarez on Twitter
Tweet about our giveaway for an entry.
Visit our Facebook page for an entry.

Use our Rafflecopter widget for your chance to win one of three Amazon Gift Cards:

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Giveaway Rules:

Contest ends Monday, February 12th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. Winners will be announced after February 12th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered, or associated with Facebook or Twitter.
You must be 18 and U.S. resident to enter. Void where prohibited.

Good Luck!

Tell us how you celebrate Valentine's Day affordably and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Ways Lust Is Keeping You Poor

Paul Michael — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 10:01:04 +0000

When you hear the word lust, your mind naturally wanders to sexual desire. But lust goes way beyond that. At the heart of lust is an intense longing for something, be it sex, money, power, possessions, knowledge, war, experience, or as the song goes, life. Sometimes that intense longing is a great motivator, and can drive you to do great things. However, it can also be the root of some serious money problems. Here are seven such examples. How many do you recognize?

1. It Drives You to Buy More Than You Need

An insatiable lust to have the latest, greatest gadgets, clothing, shoes, and other possessions, can leave you in serious financial trouble. For some people, it's not enough to have a good phone. It needs to be the newest model, even if that means replacing a model that's barely six months old.

Other people get a rush, and a release of endorphins, when buying new products. They feel a sense of great joy, a thrill, when they purchase items like jewelry, watches, cars, and purses. That thrill, much like the pleasure felt when drinking alcohol or smoking a cigarette, can become addictive. You want to replicate it, and have to keep doing so over and over again. TV shows like Hoarding: Buried Alive have featured people that have rooms filled with clothing, shoes, coats, gadgets, and jewelry that have not only never been used… they were not even taken out of the shopping bags.

2. It Can Lead to Destructive Addictions

At a base level, lust for sex and sexual imagery has become an increasingly dangerous problem in the U.S., and around the world. Easy, instant access to X-rated materials on the Internet has led to thousands of cases of addiction to this highly stimulating resource. And while it is free on some levels, it can become expensive, especially with monthly subscription fees and webcam model charges. What's worse is that this addiction can spill over into other avenues of life. People become so obsessed that they look up materials at work, leading to disciplinary action and job losses. Relationships suffer, and the abuse of alcohol, marijuana, and even food, leads the addict into a spiraling cycle of defeat and depression.

3. It Can Severely Cloud Your Judgment

When engulfed by lust, your brain is not thinking clearly. And again, this is not just about sexual desire. A prime example of this can be found at any auction, when several people want the same item, and a bidding war breaks out. People who are normally of very sound mind, and who set a price they would not go over before the auction, lose their common sense. They want it. They have to have it. They will go over their limit by hundreds, or even thousands of dollars. Some have described the experience as being in a euphoric fog, which clears and makes way for shame and regret once the furor has died down. You may have experienced something like this yourself, especially if you've done a little gambling in Las Vegas. Lust for money, sex, and power can all lead to some very muddy thinking.

4. It Consumes Your Valuable Time

Lust is one of the seven deadly sins that can utterly consume your every waking moment. When you are gripped by lust, nothing else matters. Indeed, the very definition of lust contains words like "uncontrollable desire" and "inordinate cravings," neither of which can be viewed as positive. People under the spell of lust will find themselves constantly performing actions that keep them highly focused on the object of their intense affections, be it a person, a possession, or a promotion. Nothing else matters. Your life, and your existence, bows down to this one overwhelming drive, and you can find it very easy to block out all other aspects of life. Bills don't get paid. Loved ones go ignored. Your performance at work suffers. Your time is being eaten up by one thing, and that can only lead to a loss… in more ways than one.

5. It Makes You Do Things That Are Out of Character

Someone obsessed by a deep desire for something will start to make decisions that are surprising, or even shocking to friends and family. You have no doubt witnessed it yourself. Perhaps a good friend became infatuated with someone at work, and started to do things that were way out of character; for instance, spending more money on items and pastimes that they would never have done a few months earlier. This is lust at its darkest and most dangerous. When you really want something; when nothing else matters; when the pursuit and possession of something is your only goal; that's when you can momentarily lose yourself and in the process, lose friends, money, opportunities — even your job.

6. It Can Literally Destroy Your Life

That may sound dramatic, but it's a sad fact. Every year, thousands of people around the world find their lives in ruins due to the domino effect of lust. For some people, they get embroiled in the highly addictive world of adult websites, forking over monthly fees and exposing their credit cards to some very sketchy businesses. Identity theft is common when the victim is engaging in an activity they would rather not let other people find out about. It can be embarrassing to report, and even harder to pursue a claim. Other people lust after things they just cannot have, and get into debt, gamble, take out payday loans, and find themselves in a world of financial hurt. And then there are those who lose friends and family, which can lead to substance abuse and other forms of hardship. At the end of the day, lust is dangerous because it controls you, way more than any other sin. If you don't spot the warning signs early enough, you could find yourself in serious trouble.

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Ways to Make Money on Valentine's Day

Amy Lu — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 10:30:31 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on ways to make money on Valentine’s Day, bad cleaning habits to avoid, and retirement planning for every age.

9 Sweet Valentine's Day Gifts to Give to Your Truest Love — You!

Marla Walters — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 10:00:09 +0000

The stereotypical Valentine's Day gifts of roses and chocolates are nice, but have you considered giving yourself a gift? Before you dismiss that notion as being selfish, consider the airplane analogy. When the flight attendant gives his or her talk about oxygen masks, what are you supposed to do? That's right, put on your own — because you can't help others until you help yourself first. Giving yourself a little Valentine's Day self-care gift may help to alleviate stress, and possibly, protect you from sickness.

That doesn't mean you need to go on a shopping spree, though. Here are nine self-care tips and treats to help you fight stress, find health, and be your own best Valentine's Day date ever.

1. Make a Spa-Quality Scrub

After joining the coconut oil craze, a lot of us now have big tubs of it. That's a lot of coconut oil, so let's put it to good use with a DIY Coconut-Oil Sugar Scrub. It's so easy! And yes, I've tried it, and I really like how it exfoliates and makes my face feel smooth. It's nice on your feet, too.

2. Eat Well

Surf N' Turf is traditional for Valentine's Day, but instead, why not consider a month of clean eating? After the holidays and the Super Bowl, I find myself craving healthy foods. Simply Google "month of clean eating" and you'll find several choices for menus and recipes. (See also: 8 Great Clean Eating Slow Cooker Recipes)

3. Take a Class

For around $60, my local college is offering community classes. I can choose from classes such as Beginning Guitar, Conversational Spanish, Qigong, or Hula Hoop Fitness, just to name a few. My husband has enjoyed Sushi Making and Surfing. Check out classes at your local community college, community center, or even free classes online in order to learn something new and expand your mind.

4. Get a Massage

Man, do I love a massage. But I love them even more where I can get a full hour for just $50. Do you have a massage school in your area? Students need to rack up hours to become licensed, so it can be a bargain. See if you have one in your area.

5. Embrace Your Inner Child

What sorts of things did you love doing as a kid? Did you love to color? You're in luck, because adult coloring books are so in right now. One of my friends has taken up painting again. Take some time to think about what you enjoyed, and take it up again for some relaxing fun.

6. Volunteer

Wait, isn't volunteering about helping others? Yes, but according to Harvard Medical School, "volunteering helps people who donate their time feel more socially connected, thus warding off loneliness and depression." Plus, you could also make some new friends in the process. Find a group where you feel you could contribute by using VolunteerMatch.org, which matches interests with needs.

7. Learn Meditation

Do you have a stressful job? High blood pressure? Maybe you just need to slow life down a little. Meditation, according to WebMD, can "not only lower blood pressure, but can also amp up your immune system, while improving your ability to concentrate." I took the Oprah & Deepak's 21-Day Meditation Experience and loved it.

8. Give Yourself a DIY Pedi

A salon pedicure can run you $40 and up. Save your money and give yourself one at home for almost nothing. You don't need a lot of fancy equipment, either. Just some nail care steps at the start, a steady hand, a favorite color polish.

9. Take a Nap

A quick nap can help you to feel more alert, refreshed, and recharged. As a cube-dweller, I'd never try to take one at work, but I often grab one when I get home, or on the weekends. (See also: Surprising Benefits of Naps and the Best Time to Take Them)

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This article is from Marla Walters of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

5 Better Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day This Year

Ashley Eneriz — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 11:00:12 +0000

It's almost Valentine's Day, which means love is in the air and over 180 million cards will be exchanged. According to Statistic Brain, over $13 billion will be spent to celebrate the holiday. That's a lot of moola for gifts that are usually pretty generic.

What if you moved beyond the common Valentine's Day gifts, not only to save money, but to boost your relationship? Try these creative ideas instead.

1. Instead of Flowers, Plant an Herb Garden

Flowers are a nice gesture any other time of the year. On Valentine's Day, they are overpriced and scream, "forced gift." Instead, why not give a potted plant, such as an herb garden or succulent. You can even plant several succulents in a heart-shaped box. Succulents are so easy that even people without green thumbs can succeed at keeping them alive.

Another idea is gifting exotic flower seeds or heirloom rose buds. This is a gift more appropriate for avid gardeners, and for lasting relationships.

2. Instead of Going Out to Eat, Hire a Private Chef

Dining out on Valentine's Day is nothing short of a nightmare. Everywhere is packed and many nicer restaurants will have a prix fixe menu for the day that is costlier than their daily menu. Skip the annoyance of having to spend your special day with the rest of town, and hire a private chef.

A private chef might sound too glamorous, but it is possible to find an affordable one that will deliver a delicious dinner and keep the kitchen clean. If the price is still too high, consider inviting a few other couples over to split the bill.

If a private chef is still out of the question, either dine in or choose to eat out on an another night. It's hard to share sweet moments together in a crowded and bustling restaurant.

3. Instead of a Bottle of Wine, Go Wine Tasting

Coupon sites like Groupon and LivingSocial almost always have discounted wine tasting tours. Let that be your romantic gesture rather than a bottle of wine. For some, it's hard to get excited about a bottle of wine as a gift. (See also: 7 Ways to Get the Best Deals on Groupon)

4. Instead of a Card, Write a Letter

Valentine's Day cards offer that second of "aww" or even a funny laugh, but for how much they cost, they aren't a good value. A better value would be to express your love in a letter. You don't need fancy paper, nice penmanship, perfect grammar and spelling, or even to make it a poem. If you are truly an anti-writer, make your valentine a top 10 list of things you love about your true love.

Sometimes we deeply appreciate and love a person, and while we know that to be true, our busy lives keep us from expressing it. If you were to die today, what words would you want to leave your loved one to remember you by? If you have any children or other close relatives, why not write them a note, too? I don't have many handwritten notes from my mother, but I do have one special one written in a Valentine's Day card. It's a true treasure now that she's gone.

5. Instead of Lingerie, Help Them Pursue Their Passions

Valentine's Day is all about passion, but you can show your loved one you truly care about them by gifting them something that aligns with their passions or dreams. When my husband and I were dating, he often said that one day he would like to build a computer. That year, I didn't have a lot of money, and online writing was still a new thing. However, I was able to earn a $100 gift card to TigerDirect through writing articles. This simple gift ended up motivating him to build one computer, then later he built more computers, and now he has a successful career in the field.

The point is to focus on someone's passion and give them something that says, "I believe in your passion and know you can succeed." Here are some ideas:

Set up a small painting corner in the house for that person who never can find time to get creative.
Purchase guitar lessons for the partner who wants to be more musical.
Send a loved one to a writing conference they have always dreamed about attending.

Valentine's Day is a beautiful day to celebrate the ones you love, but do so in a meaningful way that comes from the heart. If you are on a budget, you can still do romantic or grand gestures without spending alot, or anything. All it takes is a little creativity and thought.

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This article is from Ashley Eneriz of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Flashback Friday: 104 Sweet Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day

Chrissa Hardy — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 11:00:10 +0000

Valentine's Day is all about the love, but it's also about the money. And we tend to spend a whole lot of it just to show our significant others how much they mean to us. As nice as it is to give — or to receive — a shiny new toy, or a bundle of chocolates, it's simply not necessary to expressing your love for your favorite person. You can celebrate Valentine's Day with your partner without breaking the bank.

Here are 104 sweet (and frugal) ways to celebrate Valentine's Day this year.

14 Ways to Spend Less Money on Valentine's Day — Show your Valentine how much you adore them without emptying your wallet. These low-cost and super romantic Valentine's Day date ideas will have your sweetie swooning.

13 Ways to Make Money From Valentine's Day — Who knew you could actually turn a profit on one of the most expensive holidays of the year? Turn on your entrepreneurial side and cash in on Valentine's Day this year.

14 (Mostly) Frugal Valentine’s Day Recipes — Skip the crowds and pricey Prix Fixe menus and make a romantic meal at home. These yummy Valentine's Day recipes will meet your budget and satisfy your tastebuds.

15 Delicious Homemade Treats Your Valentine Will Love — Would anyone turn down chocolate covered strawberries? What about red velvet cookie pops? Here are a bunch of delectable DIY sweet treats that can't miss.

20 Valentine's Day Gifts for $10 or Less — All you need is a crisp $10 bill to get something special for your special someone. It doesn't get any easier or more budget-friendly than that, folks.

Celebrate Love, Not Money, With These Recycled Valentine's Day Gifts — You know what they say, "One man's trash is another man's extremely thoughtful, gently used Valentine's Day gift." Wait, that's not right. But whatever! These thrifted gifts are sure to woo your one and only.

Affordable Flowers for Valentine's Day (or Any Day) — Roses are red. Violets are blue. Don't buy roses on Valentine's Day when these other gorgeous flowers will do!

14 Valentine’s Day Desserts That Hit the (Sweet) Spot — True story: the way to anyone's heart is through their stomach. And whipping up any of these rich and delish Valentine's Day desserts will make you the best Valentine ever.

How are you celebrating Valentine's Day this year? Share with us in the comments!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

12 Fun Facts About Valentine's Day Spending

Paul Michael — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 10:30:25 +0000

Valentine's Day. A day for lovers and hopeless romantics everywhere. But what about the costs of being a big sweetheart? What are we, as a nation, spending to let our significant other know just how much we care about them? Some very revealing data from a 2015 National Retail Federation study lifts the lid on our spending habits on Valentine's Day. Here are 12 fun facts about the where our money goes on the day of love.

1. Americans Will Spend Over $19 Billion on Valentine's Day

You read that correctly; $19 billion. Last year, the spend was $18.9 billion, and that is only going to increase, especially as the economy continues to improve. Does that mean we're all a bunch of big romantics in this country, or are we just suckers for gift-giving holidays? After all, no one needs a special day to treat the love of their life to roses, chocolates, or a candlelit dinner for two. Perhaps it's a mix of peer pressure and not wanting to be "that guy," aka the guy who didn't buy gifts on the big day.

2. Men Spend Twice as Much as Women

All is not equal between the sexes on Valentine's Day. On average, men spent $190.53 on the day of romance last year, as opposed to the $96.58 spent by women. Why? Especially these days, with women wanting equality in the workplace, and equal treatment in all aspects of life.

A quick poll of my friends and family was quite revealing. It seems as though men believe they are supposed to spend more than women; that this is a time to treat their significant other. Something else that came up was that gifts for women cost more than those for men, and also, women seem to care about the holiday more than men, and therefore, it makes sense to spend more. What do you think?

3. More Than Half of Valentine's Day Gifts are Candy

As a country, we certainly do have an affinity for sweets. Over the last decade, around half of all Americans surveyed said they were going to buy candy as a gift for their significant other. In 2015, that number was 53.2%. Coming in second, at 37.8%, was flowers, followed by jewelry and greeting cards. Remember, if you're a frugal shopper, all that candy will be 50%–75% off the day after Valentine's Day. So, if you want to treat him or her to candies, perhaps do it over the course of a few days. It prolongs the holiday, and you can save money at the same time. (See also: Celebrate Love, Not Money, With These Recycled Valentine's Day Gifts)

4. Nine Out of 10 People Will Treat Their Significant Other

It appears as though we're a nation of sweethearts. Apparently, 91% of us will do something for our partner this year, with the average spend being almost $90. The other 10% consist of people who either don't believe in the holiday, will forget it, or have already agreed on doing nothing with their partner. The stats don't take into account people who don't have a significant other, or those who plan to be someone's secret admirer.

5. Adults Ages 25–34 Spend the Most Money

Hold onto your wallets. Last year's data reveals that people between the ages of 25–34 will spend an average of $213.04 on Valentine's Day! That's a huge sum of money. Coming in second, and well below that number, are 35–44-year-olds, who will shell out an average of $176.21. Surprisingly, third place falls to the 18–24-year-olds, spending an average of $168.95. It looks like the older generations may be saving their money for something else.

6. Discount Stores Play a Big Role in Valentine's Day

It looks like we're not just a bunch of romantics, but we also love a good bargain, too. Second only to department stores — making up 36.5% of last year's most visited locations — discount stores were the place to shop for gifts. And 35.2% of us went to these kinds of stores to shop for Valentine's Day gifts last year. So who cares if it's a bargain, as long as it's a gift that comes from the heart?

7. The Nation Will Spend Over $1.5 Billion on Cards

Yes, cards. This one is a head-scratcher. As Jim Gaffigan once said about Valentine's Day cards, "I guess that's something I'd say — I'll just add my name here. See what that other person wrote about how I feel about you?"

With greeting cards coming in between $4–$6 each, it seems like an incredible waste of money. If you want your significant other to know how you feel about them, write them a letter. Pop it in an envelope, and seal it with a kiss if you want. Guaranteed, they would rather read something personal on a piece of paper, than a quick "Love you, Babe" under a verse that a professional writer composed.

8. Over 20% of Us Buy Gifts for Our Pets

You don't have to be human to get in on the Valentine's Day action. Last year, 21.2% of people surveyed said they bought gifts for their pets. Thankfully, people used good financial sense here, spending on average only $5.28 on a gift. However, when you do the math, it means the nation will spend over $703 million on Valentine's Day gifts for pets! You have to wonder, with the pets not having a clue what is going on, is that the best use of your hard-earned money?

9. We Spend an Average of $6.30 on Classmates and Teachers

As Valentine's Day approaches again, the parents of younger kids will know all about the tradition of the homemade Valentine's mailbox. It's a shoebox, or other cardboard box, decorated and used to collect the many little gifts and cards given out by all the other kids at school. Although these gifts are often just a lollipop glued to a notecard, they soon add up to a box of sugary treats that will rival a Halloween haul. Teachers are also included in that mix, although usually they get a card, and nothing more.

10. Other Family Members Get Treated, Too

As a Brit, this one floored me when I first got here. Valentine's Day was always about lovers. So imagine my surprise when I saw cards that said, "Happy Valentine's Day, Grandma" and "With Love On Valentine's Day, Son." Wait, what?! As was explained to me, quite quickly, it's considered a holiday to show your love for other people in the U.S., not just in a romantic way. And with Americans spending an average of $26.26 last year on family members, it's a gesture taken quite seriously.

11. Americans Will Spend Over $2 Billion on Clothing

You have to wonder how much of that $2 billion will be spent on sexy lingerie and skimpy night attire. After all, this is the one time of year guys can look around Victoria's Secret without feeling completely out of place. Whatever kind of clothing you plan to buy for your partner, just remember to keep the receipt, and check on the return policy. You don't want that lovely gesture to become a costly one.

12. Over $3.6 Billion Will Be Spent on Movies and Dining Out

Dinner and a movie may seem as cliché as flowers and chocolates, but that's what we like to do, and we spend billions proving that point. Last year, we spent over $3.6 billion on Valentine's Day trips to the theater and restaurants. Those figures were slightly skewed by the fact that many restaurants have "romantic specials" that cost more than a typical dinner for two. But even taking that into account, one thing is clear — you better book ahead to avoid disappointment this year.

How much will you be spending on Valentine's Day? Share with us in the comments!

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Celebrate Love, Not Money, With These Recycled Valentine's Day Gifts

Kentin Waits — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:00:08 +0000

Are you tired of feeling more anxious than excited as each major holiday rolls around? Do you think it's absurd that Valentine's Day merchandise starts hitting the shelves the day after Christmas? Me too. This Valentine's Day, let's stage a coup and not spend a single dime on trinkets and gimmicks and glittery gewgaws. Let's escape the clichés and consumerism and return to true romance with these second-hand Valentine's Day gift ideas.

1. A Book of Classical Poetry

Want to wax romantic but can't find the words? Buy a used book of classical poetry for $1.50 and bookmark your favorite selections with a little paper heart.

2. Vintage Stemware

Pair a bottle of good wine with a set of antique wine glasses and turn a cliché gift into the ultimate romantic gesture. For maximum impact, choose ornate etched or cut stemware pieces (around $1.00 each at most thrift shops). Don't be afraid to mix patterns and don't worry about finding complete sets — after all, just two glasses will do!

3. Two Identical Books

Isn't the real value of any holiday time spent together? This Valentine's Day, visit your local Goodwill store and pick up two copies of the same book — one for you and one for your better half. Start your own little romantic reading group for less than $5.00. Read in bed together, discuss the plot twists over breakfast, and start a whole new conversation between the two of you.

4. A Project Piece for Two

Ready to take togetherness to the next level? Browse your local thrift store for a small project you can work on with your loved one. Choose something that presents a fun challenge but won't overwhelm you or your partner (remember, frustration and exhaustion aren't sexy). Restore a weathered birdhouse, beat-up bench, or salvaged mirror. Then, bask in the glow of your combined creative genius. (See also: 18 Amazing DIY Decorating Projects That Are Easier Than You Think)

5. An Antique Vase

Amp up your flower power and turn a conventional gift into a something entirely unique. Pick up an antique porcelain or stoneware vase for a few bucks and, instead of roses, add a less expensive wildflower bouquet. Can't find a vase that suits you? Try a large vintage canning jar.

6. A Vintage Frame

Buy a vintage picture frame for just a couple of dollars and add a photo from your honeymoon, anniversary, or other special occasion. Are you half of a brand-new couple? Take a series of retro photobooth-style pics (yes, there's an app for that) while holding printed messages like "Be Mine," "Our First Valentine's Day," or "Love Me Tender."

7. An Antique Porcelain Plate

Buy a hand-painted antique plate or small silver-plated tray. Fill with individually-wrapped fine chocolates and add a handmade card. It's the perfect gift and it costs less than $20.00. (See also: 15 Delicious Homemade Treats Your Valentine Will Love)

8. A Date Night Basket

Thrift stores are filled with baskets; pick up a large one for two or three bucks and fill it with everything you'll need for a stay-at-home date night. Add a favorite DVD, microwave popcorn, pretzels, craft beer, and a homemade "Do Not Disturb" sign for the front door.

What's your all-time favorite Valentine's Day gift? How do you and your special someone celebrate without all the commercialism?

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This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Ask the Readers: How Do You Save Money on Valentine's Day?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 16:00:05 +0000

Editor's Note: Congratulations to Mary W, Michael, and Kelli for winning this week's contest!

Fancy dinners, lavish gifts, exotic trips — there are many ways to splurge on Valentine's Day, but frugalites know that you don't have to spend a lot of money to show your love.

How do you save money on Valentine's Day? What "traditional" Valentine's Day gifts — flowers, chocolate, a nice dinner, etc. — are worth a splurge for you? What are you plans for Valentine's Day this year?

Tell us how you save money on Valentine's Day and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

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Tell us how you save money on Valentine's Day and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

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8 Ways Valentine's Day Picks Your Pocket

Paul Michael — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 12:00:04 +0000

February 14 is approaching, and you know what that means; panic. People everywhere are trying to figure out the perfect gift, the ideal date, or the romantic verse they will write in a card. A day for couples is nice, but let's be honest… it's just another way to get us all to spend money. And as someone once told me, you shouldn't need a special day to make the one you love feel special. So, if you've been thinking about giving the day a miss this year, here are eight costly reasons that will tip the scales.

1. Roses Are Way Overpriced

At any other time in the year, a bouquet of a dozen roses will set you back anywhere from $10–$50, depending on where you buy them. On Valentine's Day, you get "surge pricing." In other words, because roses are in demand, you have to pay way more for them. As Reuters points out, the wholesale cost of roses peaks dramatically around this holiday, and those increases are passed on to customers.

In New York, you can expect to pay between $5–$8 per rose, and if you're getting them delivered, tack on another $20–$30 for that. It's not unusual to pay $99 or more for a dozen roses on Valentine's Day. And for what? They'll be dead in a few weeks, if not sooner.

2. Restaurants Take Advantage

Don't be surprised to see the restaurants in your area charging hefty prices for "romantic dinners." Zagat states that a dinner for two jumps from $70 on a normal day, to over $146 on Valentine's Day. The restaurants know all too well that dinner is usually a big part of your planning, and you'll also have to book weeks in advance if you want any chance of getting a table. Unless, of course, you decide to go to McDonald's or Taco Bell. Plus, expect the service to be slow. The servers are going to be inundated, and the chefs will never get a break. (See also: 10 of the World's Most Expensive Restaurants)

3. Greeting Card Prices Are Bonkers

Americans buy over 180 million Valentine's Day cards every year. Seriously, who feels the need to buy someone a card for $6–$7 that contains a cheesy verse? A card that will, in most cases, go in the trash in a week or two. The price of a piece of cardboard is less than a dollar at most craft stores. You can fold that in half, write something that comes from your heart, and glue something fun or sweet on the front. Maybe one of those sweetheart candies?

4. Boxes of Chocolates Are Marked Up

It's the usual combo of flowers and chocolates that most men select as gifts on Valentine's Day. And to mark the occasion, the candy companies make heart-shaped boxes, or big, romantic packages. But it's the same old candies inside them. You're just paying extra for the presentation. By the way, those same chocolates will be at least 50% off the day after Valentine's Day. If you have a cool partner, suggest having Valentine's Day one day later, and you could save a bundle.

5. You Could Set a Costly Expectation

Imagine that you are in a new relationship, and Valentine's Day is just around the corner. You want to impress your potential boyfriend or girlfriend. You may pull out all the stops, with fine wine, a horse-drawn carriage ride, and perhaps a night in an incredible hotel. Just remember, this is a first impression that could set the standards for the whole relationship. A good friend of mine told me one of the biggest mistakes he ever made was creating a lavish Valentine's Day getaway for his third date. She was absolutely blown away, but he spent the next few years trying to live up to that. She always compared everything to that night. Save the grand occasion for an important anniversary, not a date with someone you have yet to really know.

6. Hotel Rooms Are Expensive

If you plan on making a night of it, a romantic package at a hotel seems like a good idea. But, a lot of other people have the same idea, too. Hotels know that Valentine's Day is a big draw, so room rates will increase significantly on that night. The cheapest rooms will go very quickly. That means if you don't book well in advance, you may be left with the King Suite as your only option. And that can be a very costly night out, especially after dinner and a movie.

7. Lingerie Can Be a Pricey Mistake

Let's be honest, men buy lingerie as a gift to themselves. They know their partner will look sexy in it, and that's their treat. But the difference between what looks good, and what feels good and fits well, is huge. I did a quick poll at work asking who had bought lingerie for their wives and girlfriends in the past, on Valentine's Day. And then I asked how many times they saw their partner wearing it. It seems as though men will shell out a lot of money on something that will either get used once, to be polite, or will go straight back to the store the next day. Hopefully, for a full refund, but some stores have strict return policies on intimates.

8. Specific Delivery Dates Cost More

If you're looking for flowers, chocolates, lingerie, pajamas, jewelry, or anything else to be delivered on Valentine's Day, you will pay a hefty surcharge for that privilege. Some stores will tack on $10 or $20 extra to ensure the gift is delivered into the hands of your loved one on that specific day. However, this year you may be out of luck even getting that delivery date. Valentine's Day 2016 falls on a Sunday.

Now... if you're planning to skip Valentine's Day this year, what's your reason?

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13 Ways to Make Money From Valentine's Day

Mikey Rox — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 10:00:05 +0000

While Valentine's Day is traditionally for lovers, it's also for savvy entrepreneurs. Instead of emptying your wallet to buy your special someone something special (aka "expensive"), you can actually turn a profit by setting up a side gig. Take advantage of the Hallmark holiday by raking in cold, hard cash with these 13 ways to earn extra money from Valentine's Day.

1. Create Handmade Valentine's Cards

If you're crafty or have decent graphic design skills, create your own line of heartfelt or funny Valentine's greeting cards. They're relatively easy to make — keeping them clever will probably be the hardest part — and you can sell them on Etsy, Bonanza, and a host of other sites that cater to handmade items. You'll can find colored envelopes at your local office-supply or craft store, and be sure to account for the cost of materials and shipping when pricing so you can make a decent profit.

2. Deliver Stuff

Not all local companies have the resources to offer delivery services, and that's where you come in. Identify some of the businesses that are particularly relevant around Valentine's Day and contact them to see what their delivery needs are. Places like florists, gift shops, and bakeries may be able to use an extra hand.

Bear in mind that this gig will likely be under-the-table because of insurance restrictions, so consider that before deciding if this is right for you. Even better, you may be able to score private gigs from, say, a guy who wants to send his girlfriend flowers last minute so he can save on the high shipping and delivery costs. One man's procrastination is your extra cash.

3. Play Chef for a Couple's Romantic Dinner

Are you a whiz in the kitchen? Offer to cook a multi-course meal for family, friends, co-workers, or even strangers who want to enjoy a relaxing Valentine's Day at home without all the hassle of cooking a romantic dinner. Plan a special menu of the couple's favorite dishes — complete with candles, ambient lighting, and mood-setting music — and set your fee to accommodate for the ingredients, travel, and time spent setting up, cooking, and cleaning after the meal.

4. Write Love Letters for Would-Be Casanovas

Most people aren't very slick when it comes to writing poetry or love letters, but if you're a gifted writer who can make people swoon in just a few sentences, putting sweet nothings on paper might be your money maker. (See also: 11 Life Skills That Are Now Completely Obsolete)

5. Plan Exciting Date Experiences

Everybody has their strengths, but men aren't always the best at planning special, exciting, or romantic dates. There are some creative dudes out there, for sure, but for the most part, the male of the species needs help in this area. If you happen to excel in this department, put together a few itineraries that are too good to pass up, and then do the due diligence so you can get paid by setting up the date to ensure that it goes off without a hitch.

6. Babysit or Pet Sit

All those parents you know — both of human and fur babies — deserve a break, too. And you can cash in big if you have the skills, certifications, and patience to babysit or pet sit while Mom and Dad enjoy a night out on the town.

According to UrbanSitter's 2015 Babysitting and Nanny Rates Survey, you're looking at about $15 per hour for one child and upwards of $20 per hour for three children. Add in a 15%-20% tip plus pizza money and you could take home a legit payday, albeit with a few more gray hairs. For pet sitting, you can expect between $10 and $15 per hour, as estimated by Care.com's pet care rate calculator.

7. Bake Valentine-Themed Goodies

What's Valentine's Day without dessert? That's the best part! Whip up your famous cookies, cakes, and pastries, and shop them around to local eateries (you'll fare better if you establish yourself as a small business with well-packaged goods and a business card; both of which are easy to do), or offer them up to your private network of friends, family, and co-workers.

8. Unload Unwanted Jewelry

If you have a collection of jewelry with which you're willing to part, you may be able to find interested buyers in your area. Instant-list apps like Wallapop, VarageSale, and OfferUp have made it simpler than ever to unload your items by snapping a photo, writing a short description, and naming a price.

9. Promote Your Party-Planning Skills

There may not be a huge market for amateur party planners, but it's worth a shot. If you're known for throwing memorable shindigs, you might be able to drum up some business. Shop the dollar stores for decorations to keep costs down.

10. Busk, or Serenade Couples

Throw a hat or instrument case on the ground in a well-traveled area and belt out love songs all day. If you want to be more proactive about it, take your show on the road and wander up to lovey-dovey couples for a serenading session. That dude would be a dummy if he didn't at least reach in his pocket for a dollar.

11. Photograph Couples' Special Moments

Valentine's Day, with all the sentiment that surrounds it, is prime time for weddings, engagements, and other relationship-specific photo ops. If you're handy with a camera, offer to snap shots of the special moments that the happy couple will cherish forever.

12. Draw or Paint Couples' Portraits

You don't have to be a well-established or recognized artist to sell your work. Some couples may enjoy the prospect of being drawn or painted, not only as a Valentine's Day activity, but also a gift to themselves that they can hang in the home as a reminder of their love.

13. Host a Singles Party for All Your Lonely Friends

Planning on spending Valentine's Day alone? Not anymore. Host a party at home for singles, if you have a large and diverse network of friends. Charge a few bucks admission to cover the cost of food, décor, drinks, and so you can walk away with a reasonable wage.

Do you have other ways to make extra cash on Valentine's Day? I'd love to hear some of your ideas in the comments below.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

15 Delicious Homemade Treats Your Valentine Will Love

Laurel Randolph — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 10:31:14 +0000

Not everyone loves Valentine's Day, but everyone (in their right mind) loves sweets. If you're not sure what to get your significant other, or you just want to show your family and friends that you care, try making one of these far-better-than-average homemade treats. They'll turn anyone into a Valentine's fan!

1. Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

These bright red, festive brownies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. They're a more decadent version of red velvet cake, with a cream cheese filling marbled throughout. Plus, they look impressive without a high level of difficulty.

2. Chocolate-Dipped Vanilla Caramels

Do you want to make a sophisticated candy that is sure to impress? Wrap up these chocolate-dipped homemade caramels in a pretty tin, and they are sure to put a smile on your loved one's face. Leave off the chocolate for non-chocoholics.

3. Cherry Cordials

A classic date gift, making cherry cordials yourself will beat out the store bought variety by leaps and bounds. Luckily they couldn't be easier and only require three ingredients — just be sure to start early, since the cherries need to soak for a few hours.

4. Homemade Conversation Hearts

It's probably never occurred to you that you can make your own homemade conversation hearts, but this version of the classic Valentine's candy is better than the original. They're worth the special equipment and extra time — this candy will have people oohing and aahing.

5. Handwritten Valentine Cupcakes With Chocolate Glaze

Are you planning to make homemade cupcakes as your Valentine's treat? Personalize them by writing a loving message with a small round icing tip. Practice on some wax paper before starting so you get the hang of it.

6. Red Velvet Cookie Pops

It doesn't get any cuter, or Valentines-ier, than these cookie pops. They're bright red and heart-shaped, and delicious, too. Take these cookies to work or send with your child to school.

7. Dark Chocolate Bark With Roasted Almonds and Seeds

For a very easy but sophisticated treat, take just a few minutes to make dark chocolate bark. Try mixing it up with different fillings like other nuts and dried fruit. This candy is a great option for low-sugar diets.

8. Be-My-Valentine Cookies

A heart-shaped cookie dipped in chocolate is a crowd-pleasing Valentine's dessert. Decorate them however you want and try different kinds of chocolate for dipping. These cookies are fun to make with kids!

9. Pink Peppermint Marshmallows

Want a treat that is classically pink? Look no further than these fluffy, homemade peppermint marshmallows. They make a great gift for a non-chocolate eater, or a hot cocoa lover.

10. Chocolate Cherry Chocolate Chunk Fudgy Brownies

These fudgy brownies are everything you want in a Valentine's treat: Chocolate? Check. Red cherries? Yep. Decadent? You bet! They're chewy and rich and will melt any chocolate lover's heart.

11. Rice Krispie Treat Pops

If you're sick of chocolate this time of year, make these easy and fast pops. Simply whip up some Rice Krispie treats, let them set, and then cut them out with a heart-shaped cutter. Add an optional stick and get creative with the decorations.

12. Chocolate-Mint Thins With Candy Cane Crunch

If you have a Girl Scout cookie lover in your life, try making these homemade chocolate-mint thins with the embellishment of red candy cane. These are great out of the freezer, too!

13. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

A sweet that is simple but delicious and oh-so-Valentine's appropriate. Decorate your chocolate-covered strawberries with all sorts of things: white chocolate, sprinkles, cookie crumbs, or crushed nuts.

14. White Chocolate Valentines

Ditch the usual disposable card this year and make an edible valentine out of white chocolate! Have fun embellishing with different colors of chocolate and write a fun message. Your loved one can enjoy the sentiment and eat it too!

15. 3-Ingredient Valentine's Day Fudge

This Valentine's fudge is very easy to make with only three ingredients: white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk and M&Ms. You can change it up by using different M&Ms — peanut butter would be especially good.

What special treats will you make for your Valentine this year?

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Valentine's Day

Ask the Readers: What Are Your Tips for a Frugal Valentine's Day?

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7 Ways Being Single is Better for Your Bank Account

1. Valentine's Day is a money suck

2. Your food budget goes a lot further

3. Weddings aren't cheap

4. You have time to focus on your career and your finances

5. No more spending money on gifts

6. Vacations are cheaper alone

7. Two people means double the debt

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6 Ways Lust Is Keeping You Poor

1. It Drives You to Buy More Than You Need

2. It Can Lead to Destructive Addictions

3. It Can Severely Cloud Your Judgment

4. It Consumes Your Valuable Time

5. It Makes You Do Things That Are Out of Character

6. It Can Literally Destroy Your Life

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Best Money Tips: Ways to Make Money on Valentine's Day

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9 Sweet Valentine's Day Gifts to Give to Your Truest Love — You!

1. Make a Spa-Quality Scrub

2. Eat Well

3. Take a Class

4. Get a Massage

5. Embrace Your Inner Child

6. Volunteer

7. Learn Meditation

8. Give Yourself a DIY Pedi

9. Take a Nap

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5 Better Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day This Year

1. Instead of Flowers, Plant an Herb Garden

2. Instead of Going Out to Eat, Hire a Private Chef

3. Instead of a Bottle of Wine, Go Wine Tasting

4. Instead of a Card, Write a Letter

5. Instead of Lingerie, Help Them Pursue Their Passions

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Flashback Friday: 104 Sweet Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day

12 Fun Facts About Valentine's Day Spending

1. Americans Will Spend Over $19 Billion on Valentine's Day

2. Men Spend Twice as Much as Women

3. More Than Half of Valentine's Day Gifts are Candy

4. Nine Out of 10 People Will Treat Their Significant Other

5. Adults Ages 25–34 Spend the Most Money

6. Discount Stores Play a Big Role in Valentine's Day

7. The Nation Will Spend Over $1.5 Billion on Cards

8. Over 20% of Us Buy Gifts for Our Pets

9. We Spend an Average of $6.30 on Classmates and Teachers

10. Other Family Members Get Treated, Too

11. Americans Will Spend Over $2 Billion on Clothing

12. Over $3.6 Billion Will Be Spent on Movies and Dining Out

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Celebrate Love, Not Money, With These Recycled Valentine's Day Gifts

1. A Book of Classical Poetry

2. Vintage Stemware

3. Two Identical Books

4. A Project Piece for Two

5. An Antique Vase

6. A Vintage Frame

7. An Antique Porcelain Plate

8. A Date Night Basket

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Ask the Readers: How Do You Save Money on Valentine's Day?

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8 Ways Valentine's Day Picks Your Pocket

1. Roses Are Way Overpriced