4 Romantic Gifts that Cost (Virtually) Nothing

Following a budget tightening for you or for your household, you may look at romantic gifts with some hesitation.  After all, you may assume that a really special birthday or Valentine’s Day gift has to be expensive.  Fortunately, there are romantic gifts that can cost little to no money.  They also excel in romantic and sentimental value.

1. Make Dinner

All right, perhaps this one isn’t completely free.  But it is hard to ignore the impact and romance of making a meal for that special someone.

You don’t have to go overboard here.  A simple salad, pasta, and bread (extra credit for using the bread-maker) can go well with a couple of candles and music.  You don’t have to be a chef.  You certainly don’t have to spend a lot of money on exquisite food, either.

Pair it with a greeting card that you created yourself, and you could have a lovely evening that is in itself a gift.

2. A Poem

Some people become mortified at the thought of writing a poem.  It’s not too far down on the list of fears that begins with public speaking…

Relax – it doesn’t have to be that difficult.  Try your hand at writing a poem; it can be one of the most meaningful gifts that someone can receive.  Find a spark to initiate your creativity, then brainstorm, and get out your dictionary or thesaurus if necessary.  It doesn’t have to rhyme, of course. What is more personal than a poem written just for you?

3. Your Pictures

Imagine your special someone opening up a DVD, or perhaps getting home from work and noticing a note to play a slideshow that is set up on the PC.  What plays back is a series of photos from the best times in your relationship, set to a favorite song.

Something like this is actually quite simple to do.  Simply obtain some pictures in digital form (move them from a digital camera, or scan in your prints), set it to music, and begin creating a romantic slideshow.  You could even incorporate pictures of places from earlier dates; you can be more creative here as well, and insert text onto or between the images to tell a story or give your beloved a special message.

This can be quite a lovely gift and a great way to reminisce on a special occasion.

4. Your Time

Many of us would answer the question in the same way: we would love to spend some quality time with our loved one.  You don’t have to spend money and make elaborate plans – that has its place.  Romance is really about being with that special someone.

So, why not make it happen?  Some of the simplest ideas can give your loved one what they really want – in other words, you!

• Take advantage of some free outdoor activities.  Going to the park could be a great way to enjoy the weather, play some sports, and/or have a nice picnic.
• Use what you already have.  Board games, movies on demand, and other items could allow the two of you to have a “free” date night.  Be creative and have a nice night without feeling the need to spend money.

Don’t miss out on free, or nearly free, gift ideas that can help you keep the romance in your relationship without great expense.  After all, you don’t have to spend money to create a gift for that special someone. Your love is what makes the difference, not your budget!

Image credit

---

This is a guest post by Brian Neese, a money saving blogger for MasterYourCard.com. Brian is in the late stages of planning his wedding and is proud to be a frugal romantic!

Tagged as: Gifts, Relationship, Romance