Valentine's Day on a College Budget

Being a poor college student is already difficult enough, but when holidays roll around, it can be even more of a challenge to celebrate in style. College is a great place to meet your significant other, but it can be hard to keep the relationship interesting without the financial means. When it comes to planning a great Valentine’s Day on a budget, creativity is key! Showing that special person in your life just how much you love them is especially important on Valentine’s Day, so here are some creative date night ideas that won’t completely break the bank.

1)   Make dinner together! A lot of guys think that it’s the romantic thing to do to make your girlfriend dinner on Valentine’s Day. However, if you’re running low on cash, make a date out of it. Try cooking a new dish that neither of you have tried before! It can be a great way to spend time together and experience new things.

2)   Send your valentine on a scavenger hunt! Come up with a set of clues, each leading your valentine to locations that are significant in your relationship. The scavenger hunt can end in a variety of locations. You could have a special picnic set up for your valentine, or lead them back to their favorite café around the corner. It doesn’t have to be over-the-top, but your significant other will surely appreciate the time and creativity that you put into your plans. Remember, it’s the thought that counts!

3)   Flowers on a budget! Getting flowers for your significant other on Valentine’s Day can be pretty pricy, especially for something that doesn’t last very long! However, there are several different florists that are offering student discounts online. StudentRate.com is offering at 15% off student discount for 1800-Flowers. You may also find other offers at local shops by calling around. The key to getting the best deal is planning early and taking the time to do your research!

4)   Check out deal sites like Groupon! Groupon is always full of amazing deals. In the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, Groupon tends to have more deals targeted towards couples. The key to finding the best deal is PREPARATION! These websites usually update daily, and since the deals are in limited supply, it may take a little more effort than usual to find the perfect deal for you and your significant other. Local restaurants offer Valentine’s Day specials, and other local businesses may offer discounts on their products. Gifts? Flowers? Dinner date? The possibilities are endless.

5)   Try to find free or discounted events! Local museums and event venues may offer student discounts, and a lot of businesses run Valentine’s Day specials or promos. By searching around and staying open minded, you may stumble across the perfect plan. Go to an art exhibit that just opened or, if the weather is nice, go to the local zoo! The Kansas City Zoo offers great deals for residents of Jackson and Clay county. Through the month of February, admission is only 3 dollars. That’s only 6 bucks for an awesome date! Paired with a low key dinner, and you’ve got yourself a cheap and fun Valentine’s Day!

Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is about spending time with the person you love and showing them how much you appreciate the relationship. Remember, it doesn’t take a wad of cash to be romantic. All it takes is the willingness to be creative and to plan ahead. Your significant other will appreciate all of the hard work and thought that went into your creative date night on a budget!