Money
Getting the best deal
Valentine's Day: Cupid's credit crunch-busters
Valentine's Day is nearly here, but even Cupid is feeling the pinch. Here are 10 top tips for showing your love without breaking the bank:
1. Book a room: Speak to hoteliers about an overnight or weekend stay. If they still have availability now, they will likely be open to negotiation. Tell them you weren't initially thinking of going away as it would be too expensive; however someone suggested that it would be worth calling around to see if there were any great deals available.
If you are not happy with the price offered, ask if they could offer you the package for X pounds, as this is your budget – you never know your luck! As a final flourish, you can always say to them you will book now, rather than ringing around other venues, IF they include a bottle of champagne.
2. Watch Four Weddings.... Take advantage of a free trial with www.lovefilm.co.uk and you could cosy up to your loved one with the latest blockbuster for free.
3. Why February 14? Love is for life, so why show it just on the 14th? Celebrate with your partner on the 15th – it's a Monday, as opposed to a Sunday; so lunch and dinner is likely to be cheaper, especially if you take advantage of www.vouchercodes.co.uk and enjoy a discounted meal – often 2 for 1. Best clear the change of date with your partner first, though!
4. Off the beaten track. Fill a flask with hot soup, wrap up warm and go for a romantic walk in your area. If you need inspiration, Google 'romantic walk in ...........' and then input your county – up will likely pop several ideas.
5. Shower them with culture. Many museums and art galleries are free to visit including the Tate Modern and British Museum. Enjoy a day out together and find a romantic coffee shop nearby.
6. Flower fun. If red roses are a must, then buy a bunch from one of the major supermarkets and decorate them yourselves with colourful paper and ribbons to create your very own amazing bouquet.
7. Say it with elbow grease. Why not present them with a gift card that entitles them to your services for the day. Think of chores they really dread; ideas include hoovering, ironing, washing the car and taking the dog for a walk; or perhaps something they’ll love; offer to give them a massage.
8. Dine at home. Marks and Spencer offer a 'dine for two' £10 menu, saving you huge amounts compared to an expensive meal out.
9. Become a recording artist. Compile a CD with your partner's favourite tunes and design your own album cover – a great keepsake.
10. Valentines treasure hunt. Leave little notes dotted around the house with lovely messages and perhaps little gifts – after all it is said that Valentines originated with love messages.
Written by Marc Lockley, this article was published on February 4, 2010. Marc is a negotiation coach and author of 'How To Pay Less For More'. He writes a fortnightly column for Guardian online called 'The Negotiator'.
