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How To Show Love Without Spending Money This Valentine’s Day

Rebecca Cohen  |  February 9, 2021

There are oh-so very many ways to show love without emptying your wallet. Here's a look at a few of our favorite free Valentine's Day gifts! 

It seems as soon as there’s a chill in the air, we pretty much just open our wallets and never stop spending money. Think about it: From November to February, various holidays pack our schedules and give us reasons to spend, spend, spend. But in 2021, with many of us reeling from the financial fallout of the last year, the last stop on this holiday tour — Valentine’s Day — can feel more daunting than ever. But what if I told you that there are plenty of ways to show up for your one true love without spending a dollar? That’s right — Free Valentine’s Day Gifts This year, we’re bringing the romance (for FREE!). The women of our private HerMoney Facebook group weighed in on their favorite ways to show love without spending a dime. 

For all of you ladies celebrating Galentine’s Day, Kayla S. showed her love by showing her best friend how to set up a 401(k). “Showing love by caring about my loved ones’ retirement plans,” was her way spreading that V-Day cheer. (Ahem, WAY better move than a box of candy hearts.)

Makda B. shared the love by sharing her own financial know-how. She explained the difference between Roth 401(k), traditional 401(k), IRA, and Targeted Funds to several of her BFFs, one of whom actually balanced her portfolio and made $60,000 for 2020 (Umm, wow, YES!). We’re hoping she keeps imparting her wisdom around the Galentine’s table. 

And if you want to show your love, but can’t quite get there in person because of COVID, Suzanne M. says she made a video montage of birthday greetings for her brother’s 50th. A simple video about how much everyone loves your special someone is sure to put a huge smile on their face. For a free Valentine’s Day gift, try splicing together some pictures and video clips of you and your loved one. 

Heidi H. has more of a love-showing routine, one you might want to spread out over the entire month. “I make my husband some of his favorite foods. I slip little love notes in random places—his car, desk,” she says. “Every night for a week, before we went to bed, I shared three different things I appreciate about him. The little things can be the most appreciated!”

La A. shows her love in the kitchen. “Cooking is one of my love languages,” she says, “so preparing elaborate dinners (think: lobster bisque, rib eye steak w/ a bernaise sauce, roasted vegetables, and bailey’s red velvet cake) and making  fun cocktails” is how she expresses her appreciation. On her Valentine’s Day menu? Hot chocolate bombs, chocolate covered strawberries, fun cocktails and mocktails, and a dessert charcuterie tray with red velvet waffles and tons of other goodies. YUM. 

Joan Y. gives the gift of taking away. She recommends taking a chore your partner hates off of their plate five times. Whether it’s shoveling snow, doing the laundry, or heading to the grocery store, they’re sure to appreciate your offer, and appreciate you every time they don’t have to do that thing they hate. 

Creativity is key when it comes to gift giving without spending, especially when you’re looking for a free gift this Valentine’s Day. We’d love to hear what you’re doing this holiday season for your loved one. Tweet us @HerMoneyMedia to fill us in! 

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