Bargain Shopper Blog

If you’re anything like me, in the lead up to Valentine’s Day you’ll tell anyone who listens that it’s a meaningless, consumer-driven event that doesn’t deserve recognition. Then on the day itself you pore over the love messages published in the newspapers and are secretly upset when no flowers arrive on your desk. So this year I’ve been pro-active and come up with some cheap Valentine's Day gift ideas with which to share the love.

Bargain gifts for girls
Most girls don’t need to be wined, dined or swept off their feet on Valentine’s Day – they just want the date acknowledged!
• Love letters: What could be more romantic than a personalised poem, love letter or song for your lady? Serious or funny, with references to her special qualities and quirks, this gift from the heart is sure to make her swoon.
• Homemade pamper pack: Hit the local market or beauty outlet stores for a bar of homemade soap, a cheap shower puff or set of exfoliating gloves, shower gel and moisturiser and a single-treatment face mask sachet from the supermarket or pharmacy. Run a bath for her when she gets home and have a glass of wine ready!
• Romantic night in: Hire a DVD from your local rental or buy a cheap film for next to nothing at the likes of JB Hi Fi or Big W. Stock up on popcorn, soft drink and a selection of small pick-and-mix chocolates for some tasty show time treats then sit back and enjoy.
• Small and lacy: Spoil the girl in your life with a cute lingerie or PJ set. This doesn’t have to cost the earth; visit outlet stores at DFO such as Peter Alexander for some fantastic bargains on past season goods.
• Roses are red: Traditional doesn’t mean boring! A bunch of flowers, a single rose or even a posy picked from the garden will melt her heart and score you brownie points for the rest of the year.

Bargain gifts for boys
When it comes to romantic gifts, guys can be a little bit trickier to buy for. Forget about the schmaltz factor and just do something for him that you know he’ll love!
• Sweet treats: It’s said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Give this tactic a go and bake him some cookies, a cake or maybe his favourite dessert. Presentation counts so don’t forget to have some cellophane and ribbon on hand to wrap the completed goodies.
• Dinner for two: Forget an expensive restaurant; cook your man’s favourite meal! Light some candles; hit ‘play’ on some mood music and pop the cork on a nice bottle of wine.
• Cheese please: In keeping with the food theme, prepare a hamper for him with a selection of deli cheeses and seasonal fruits, all of which can be bought at the local markets. Complement this with a bottle of red wine and some crackers and you’ve got yourself a cheesy picnic.
• Gift vouchers: But not for his local book store... Customise a book of coupons with services you can provide. A free massage, cuddles on demand – this is a winner for both of you!
• Practical gifts: Consider your man’s hobbies: the football player might enjoy a new ball that you can kick around in the park together; the amateur chef might like a new utensil for the kitchen. While this isn’t necessarily the most romantic gift, he’ll appreciate the thought and love it all the same.

What are you planning to do for your loved one this Valentine’s Day? Comment on this post or email bsgm@universalmagazines.com.au

You spoilt each other on Valentine’s Day and now that the romance is still alive and well, the cash flow isn’t. So how do we retain the spark of date-night on a shoestring?

There are many budget-friendly wooing options around if only you have the know-how, creativity and research skills to find them. Here are some of my favourites:

If music be the food of love, play on
Check out your local paper for news of budget entertainment options. Street festivals are free and offer a great day out, wandering around, holding hands and soaking up the atmosphere. Many bars around town also feature free live music — particularly from Sunday through to Thursday — offering the perfect setting to unwind over a few drinks. Concerts in the park are also good value and a unique experience; opera under the stars will bring out the true romantic in anyone.

The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach
There’s a wealth of opportunity when it comes to food dating. Pack a picnic basket with homemade sandwiches, cheese, wine and snacks and watch the sun set together in a beautiful location such as the beach or botanic gardens. If the event goes well and runs through to the evening, many an hour can be lost gazing at the sky and watching for shooting stars.

Alternatively, a home-cooked meal shows off your skills as a domestic goddess. Light candles, pick some flowers and Google recipes that are sure to knock his socks off.

Playing games
There are myriad dating options once you introduce sporting activities to the mix. From ten pin bowling and paintball to trips to the golf driving range, you can test your skills and have a heap of fun without breaking the bank.

Going for a bike ride or skating allows you to enjoy the great outdoors while simultaneously avoiding expensive bars and restaurants. Take a break when needed for a coffee or ice-cream stop.

Alternatively, organise a game night at home. From old favourites such as Guess Who and Monopoly to the more modern Nintendo Wii, this will provide hours of fun for zero cost.

Culture club
Check newspapers and websites for information on local art galleries and museums. Permanent exhibits are generally free while a trip to a touring show or the zoo will still cost less than dinner at a fancy restaurant.

Can’t be bothered leaving the comfort of your couch? Nothing’s more romantic than an old-movie marathon. Rent some DVDs, pop some popcorn and swoon to the likes of Casablanca, Roman Holiday, Breakfast at Tiffany’s — or something more modern to suit his tastes.

What are your favourite budget dating tips? Comment on this post or email bsgm@universalmagazines.com.au