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We all know it's the thought that counts.
And there are many ways to make your loved one smile on Valentine's Day without having to spend big.
Putting thought and effort into a gift or an experience can mean much more than an expensive gesture.
So what can you do?
1. Love notes
Hide love notes to be found during the day. Place them in shoes, or pockets of clothing, in wallets, on the car seat, in their lunch bag and any other places where they might be found and unexpected.
2. Poem or letter
Write a poem or a letter from the heart about your loved one or your relationship expressing your appreciation and gratitude. You could do it on some nice paper, roll it up an put a ribbon around it. Place it somewhere they'll find it when you're not around like in the fridge or on the computer keyboard, laptop bag or dashboard.
3. Pictures
Frame theirs or your favourite picture of the two of you together, reminding you of a fun time and offer it as a gift that you'll both see in the house each day on display.
4. Pamper
Give them a massage, foot rub, head massage or similar pampering in your own home. You could come home early and prepare them a bath with rose petals, burn some incense and poor a glass of wine so they can indulge as soon as they walk through the door.
5. Decor
Light scented candles or string up fairy lights around the house or bedroom, strew rose petals around and create a romantic atmosphere. Arrange a platter of sweets or savouries, depending on what you both prefer. Things such as chocolate dipped strawberries or a cheese platter are nice.
6. Cook dinner
Cook your partners favorite meal for dinner. Make it special by arranging it in the shape of heart or using something decorative you've never done before. Set the table in a romantic way with candles, flowers and wine. Enjoy the meal together at home as a lovely surprise.
7. Home picked flowers
Get their favourite flowers, it doesn’t have to be red roses. Red roses tend to be the most expensive flowers but there are so many other beautiful flowers to choose from. Better yet you could pick a bunch of flowers from a nearby park or if there are any in your backyard. The more effort involved, the more genuine the gesture.
8. Voucher book
Create a book of vouchers for things such as a massage, an offer to clean the car or spend a whole day together shopping, video gaming, crafting, 4WDing, fishing or whatever your partner likes, things like that. Get creative and think about what they would enjoy.
9. Do their housework
Surprise them by doing something for them that would be considered their ‘chore’ or job to do. Go out of your way during the day to do things for them weather it be making lunch or dinner, doing their washing, cleaning their car, taking out the rubbish or watering the garden.
10. Make a photo story book
Get photo’s together. Arrange your favorite photographic memories of the two you and meaningful locations, for example where you first met, where you had your first date or where you made a big decision together. Arrange them in a photo book or set them up to scroll electronically as the screen saver setting on the computer.
11. Baked goods
Bake something such as a basket of nice biscuits and slices, cupcakes or heart shaped truffles. Arrange them in a creative way when you present them.
12. Free local entertainment
See what is on for free in your area such as a concert or movie in the park.
13. Organise the night to yourselves
If baby sitting is an issue, combine with a few other local friends and see if the baby sitter can sit all the kids for a lower fee, then split the cost.
14. Picnic basket
Pack a picnic basket with wine, dips, cheeses and antipasto. Take it to a nearby park and enjoy it together at sunset.
Think about what is important and special to your significant other. Valentine’s Day is not just for the women, but for everyone to show their love for the special person in their loves.
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