by Sandra Piddock

Created on: February 13, 2011   Last Updated: February 14, 2011

Despite what the advertising people would have you believe, celebrating Valentine's Day does not have to involve spending a fortune. There are many things you can buy, but you can't buy love or happiness, so why max out your credit cards to show someone you love them when there are great ways to celebrate Valentine's Day on a budget? Here are some ideas to get you thinking.

Go for a picnic

Nothing is more romantic than a picnic, whatever the time of year. If it's too cold to picnic outdoors, take a drive to your favourite beauty spot, park the car so you have the benefit of the fantastic view, and picnic in the car itself.

If it's really cold, pack hot water bottles and a couple of rugs to keep you cosy. Take along a flask of hot soup and whatever else you fancy. Enjoy the view, the food and each other's company. Talk about things that don't matter at all, or talk about the really important things, as long as you're talking and - equally important - listening to each other. This could be the most fantastic picnic you'll ever have, simply because you're spending time together with no outside distractions.

Write a poem

Instead of spending a fortune on a fancy card with a formulaic verse that could apply to at least half of the planet's population, why not write your own, personalised poem for your Valentine? Then play around with the formatting to produce a nice script with an appropriate decorative border, or a favourite photo. Print it off and pop it into an A4 envelope to give to your lover on Valentine's Day. It costs nothing but time and thought to produce, but it will tell your other half just how much they are loved and appreciated.

If the thought of writing a sentence let alone a poem sends you into hysterics, don't worry. There are some great, free Valentine's Day poems here. You can still add that personal touch with formatting and illustrations.

Have a movie night in

Going to the cinema can be an expensive night out these days, so why not enjoy your favourite movies at home, sharing a bottle of wine and your favourite meal? Choose films you both enjoy, either from your personal collection or from the DVD rental store. Or arrange to exchange films with a friend or neighbour, so you each have something new to watch without having to spend anything.

Valentine's Day is a time to share experiences and quality time with the person you love. The flowers and chocolates and meals out are all well and good if you can afford them, but just making time to enjoy each other's company costs nothing, and can be every bit as enjoyable as a swish night out. Take the trouble to look good for each other, as you would if you were going out, and just enjoy the day as a couple.

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