Two Day Magazine

Gifting on a Budget

What do you do when you want to impress that special someone but finances are not cooperating?  Unfortunately, many of us are reaching into our wallets only to see a few moths fly out instead of cash. But, fear not! The economic crisis doesn’t have to take all the fun out of romance! Here are some solutions to finding the perfect gift at the perfect price!

Shop online.

Most retail stores have website now that you can buy directly from. Shopping online is a great alternative to going out to the stores for several reasons.

1. It’ll definitely save you gas money.
2. In these tough times, every little bit helps. Most websites have free shipping and delivery around the holiday season. The return policies on online shopping items are usually simple. If you don’t like it, send it back.
3. Shopping online gives you lots of different options at your disposal, and you don’t have to deal with pushy salespeople.
4. Since retail shopping is down, many companies are giving online promotions, as well.

Taking advantage of all these online opportunities will save you time and money so you can do what you really want; which is spending time with your lover, family, and friends.  

Plan an event together.

Instead of exchanging gifts for an anniversary or holiday, why not put your money together and do something fun with each other? Go get a couple’s massage or go see a play or sporting event.  Going to a concert to hear your favorite band or singer could also be a great way to make a memory without breaking the bank.

Whatever your favorite thing is to do together, get up off the couch and do it! Sometimes, as couples often do, they begin to lose sight of what brought them together in the first place and begin to merely co-exist. By reintroducing the events that made the magic happen in the first place, the flames of passion will reignite. So, what are you waiting for? Start a fire!

Staying in.

Instead of taking your lover out to a fancy dinner for a special treat, try cooking at home instead. Make it an all day event. Go to your local grocer’s and pick out fresh items together and then spend the day cooking a delicious meal. Find their favorite bottle of wine or champagne and bake cookies together for an after dinner treat. Top the evening off with watching an old favorite romantic movie and snuggle up on the couch together sipping hot cocoa or cider. One of my favorite classic films is, Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Really want to go the extra mile? After the movie, take a dip in the tub together and fill it with rose petals and bubbles. Nothing says, “I love you” more than taking the time to do something special for someone special in your life. Definitely an evening to remember!