Win their heart this Valentine’s Day

 Janu-worry might be over, but for many of us, our wallets and credit cards could still be very blue.

And before we can fully recover, Valentine’s Day is right upon us.

“It is easy to get swept up in the consumerism of Valentine’s Day, especially when we are being inundated with social media posts, advertisements and peer pressure to outdo each other with expensive gifts,” said Susan Steward from Budget Insurance.

“With at least another two weeks until payday, the timing of Valentine’s Day is not ideal for anyone’s bank account but the good news is that there are so many great ways to celebrate that won’t break the bank.”

Budget Insurance offers these tips to get the best Valentine’s Day experience on budget:

• The Christmas wreath spin-off:

Using photos, ticket stubs, dried roses, romantic quotes or any other items which have significant and sentimental value to you and your loved one, create a timeline of your loving moments. You can pin these onto your Christmas wreath and hang it on your front door.

• Do that one chore they hate:

Your partner has, at some stage, made mention of either having to do something they don’t particularly like, or mentioning how much they would like to get to a task, if only they had the time. Well now is your opportunity to take that off their plate and do it for them.

• I think you’re great:

People love words of affirmation so write down all the things, from the physical to the emotional, on why you think your partner is great onto sticky notes. Fold them over and stick them on the fridge, mirror, or inside their car. Every time they go to that spot, they get to open a new note.

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• Get cooking:

By preparing a meal together, you get to spend quality time doing what can be a mundane activity, especially if you tackle something unique, like sushi (this is especially great for unexpected loadshedding).

• Skip the knick knacks:

What will your Valentine do with that oversized, overpriced teddy bear, mug or that giant red heart pillow? These things end up becoming unnecessary clutter anyway, so rather save that money for a good bottle of wine or delicious dessert for your stay-at-home dinner.

• Rent a cheesy movie and snuggle up:

No dressing up, no paying for parking and no dealing with crowds. Put on the popcorn, get in your pjs and enjoy a romantic flick.

• And finally… for the pet lovers

Give them a treat they never would normally get, such as having some decadent pet-friendly food added to their meal, or upgrading their current ID tags with heart-shaped ones.

“But don’t forget, the most inexpensive and wonderful way to show someone you love them, is to give them lots of hugs, praise and attention, and that is available all year round,” said Steward.

Have a story?

Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za, Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za.

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