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Mercedes is Snackpicks' Frugal Blogger and shares her tips to save money all year round, no matter what the occasion. She is a Certified Public Accountant with a MBA and became a stay-at-home mom after having her first of three beautiful children. Her passion is helping people live better while not only spending less money but also saving money. Mercedes owns and runs the frugal blog, Common Sense with Money.

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Valentine's Day Money Saving Tips

Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays because it's the holiday to celebrate love. But it's disappointing to see how it has become so commercialized. Suddenly, spending a lot of money on flowers, greeting cards, dinner and chocolate has become the norm. Here are some budget-conscious alternatives to celebrate this special day with those you truly love.

Savvy Alternatives to Expensive Valentine's Day Traditions

1. Write a Love Letter

Instead of buying a greeting card, write a love letter. And if you lack the poetic gene, start your letter with a borrowed poem and then just state your feelings. It will be much more meaningful to your loved one than a signed greeting card.

2. Get a Potted Flowering Plant

This year ditch the $60 per dozen imported red roses and go with a beautiful potted flowering plant. For a fraction of the price, the recipient will continue enjoying the beauty of these flowers for longer than a cut flower.

3. Substitute a Box of Chocolates

Save money and cut a few calories by substituting a box of whole chocolates for chocolate-dipped strawberries or make Rice Krispies Treats Valentine Hearts.

4. Dine In

If you enjoy cooking, how about dining in instead of dining out? Your local grocery store will probably have a nice cut of meat and lobster deeply discounted around Valentine's Day. Splurge on a fancy meal at home for a fraction of the cost, and avoid the crowds at a restaurant.

5. Dining Out Tips

If you do feel like going out for a romantic dinner, remember, you don't need to pay full price. Here are actually a few ways you can save on a nice dinner out:

Don't go out on actual Valentine's Day! Avoid the crowds and higher prices by celebrating a few days early or maybe even considering having an early meal.
Take advantage of the fixed-price menus that restaurants may be offering. These fixed-price menus usually provide a better value than ordering a la carte.
Purchase a gift certificate at a discounted price. Restaurant.com provides $25 gift certificates to restaurants for only $10. Make sure to read the fine print as some restaurants may exclude certificate use on holidays.

6. Entertainment

Finally, take advantage of free or cheap entertainment. Visit art galleries, book stores or local coffee shops that offer live entertainment. Enjoy a quiet night at home and rent a movie from your local Redbox for only $1 per night.

Last Thought: Remember, that in the end, it is the thought that matters. With some imagination and creativity, you can end up wowing that special someone without breaking the bank.