It’s that time of the year again, the time of chocolate, jewelry, flowers, a night out on the town, and an empty wallet. On average, Americans will spend an estimated $143.56, according to an annual survey by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. That number is for just one single day! Although with the help of Powercat Financial and a little thrifty spending you can still spoil your significant other, best friend, or yourself without breaking the bank.
Create a Budget
One of the very first things you should do before any holiday, or any major purchases, is to create a budget. It’s important to know what your spending limit is for any gifts or outings you may have in mind. The counselors at Powercat Financial would love to sit down with you to assist you in creating a budget that works for you.
Shopping for Those Savings
Take your time to find the best deals out there. If you invest your time into looking for deals, you can often times discover discounted gifts that fit into your budget. Be on the lookout for those Valentines deals as the day gets closer. Here are some deals we have already seen:
- Target: Right now you can save $5 when you spend $20 or more on Valentines candy using in-store pickup. Not only do you save money, but they will do the shopping for you, all you have to do is pick it up.
- Groupon: This e-commerce marketplace offers a variety of goods and services at a discount that you could enjoy with your partner. Depending on your location, there are marked down flowers, portraits, restaurants and more for you to pick from.
- Amazon: For easy searching, Amazon provides a category of gifts under $30 specifically for Valentine’s so that you don’t have to spend big to have a big heart this Valentine’s Day.
- AMC Movie Theater: Celebrate a few days earlier this year by seeing a movie at AMC theaters for $5 each when becoming a Stubs rewards member. Their Tuesday Ticket Savings will provide you with a budget-friendly night filled with fun.
Dinner Together at Home
Staying in for dinner has always been a cheaper option than going out. According to Forbes, on average it is almost five times more expensive to order delivery from a restaurant than it is to cook at home. So this year, surprise your partner with a home-cooked meal that has your personal touch and will be sure to impress. Here are some restaurant quality dishes you can make from home that will be sure to please.
DIY Gifts
Often times those thoughtful gifts that you put time and effort into can mean more to your partner than expensive gifts. For example, a homemade card can be more personable and touching than store bought. For some extra help with that DIY card, K-State Student Union is offering a FREE flower, a chance to decorate a cookie, and to make your over Valentine’s Day card on Wednesday, February 13th from 1-3pm. Just stop by the Unions first floor concourse and visit UPC’s table.
Credit Card Rewards
If purchasing something expensive such as jewelry is on your to-do list this year, figure out if your credit card offers benefits, like rewards, before you pay. You could earn cash back, reward points, or purchase protection that saves you money at the end of the day.
Early or Belated Valentines
Celebrate early this year by attending our Love and Money workshop on February 11th at 6:30 pm in Union 227! If you are currently thinking about, or have already made the step to combining your finances with your partner, then this presentation is for you. This early Valentine’s date even comes equipped with free dessert! K-State students should make sure to RSVP to this event at https://powercatfinancial.wufoo.com/forms/s1n3h0ey0pa8x3c/ to guarantee yourself a night full of fun and relationship building.
Another quick and easy way to save money this year would to postpone the celebration. Most stores discount their candy the day after, meaning you get the same goodies at a reduced price. This leaves patient shoppers with a satisfied sweet tooth and more money in the bank.
To request your free appointment, visit our website at www.ksu.edu/powercatfinancial.
Emma Drees
Peer Counselor I
Powercat Financial
www.k-state.edu/powercatfinancial
References
https://www.foodnetwork.com/holidays-and-parties/photos/valentines-day-dinner-recipes
https://www.kstateupc.com/our-events/2019/2/13/valentines-day-sweets-for-the-sweet
