5 Budget-Friendly Valentine's Day Ideas

This year most of us are probably looking to keep Valentine's Day budget-friendly. If you are looking for Valentines ideas that won't cost a fortune, we've gathered some simple tips that will save you money and make things romantic at the same time. Instead of worrying about impressing your Valentine with pricey gifts or night out, try showing you care with a romantic evening at home.

Love shouldn't cost a thing! So don't feel guilty about cutting back - just make sure you add to the celebration with thoughtfulness.

Get Close & Shut the World Out

A romantic dinner isnt so romantic if the two of you are miles apart at a dining table made for six or eight.

Instead, try setting the breakfast nook or a TV table in the living room. The closer together you are the better, and changing the atmosphere in your own home will make you feel as if youre in a hip new restaurant.

Shut the phones off, too! Cut the rest of the world at for the evening - you can resist the urge to Facebook or Tweet your Valentine's special treat for the evening. No distractions mean you'll only have eyes for your sweetie.

Flowers & Aphrodisiacs

Be sure to have some type of flowers on the table--even a single flower across each plate or in a delicate vase makes a big impression. Or get a deal on day-old blooms and sprinkle petals on the table.

Although roses may be considered the standard for Valentine's Day we recommend going an alternative route. Lots of blooms are available in reds or pinks and won't run your bill as high.

Also consider more aromatic flowers that are also known aphrodisiacs. Jasmine, lavender and basil are a few options to try.

Valentine Votives for a Romantic Glow

Set the mood with candles. Put tea lights in dainty tea cups or float them in a water-filled wine glass. You can even color the water to match your decor.

Repurposed Valentine Decor

Using what you already have is the best way to save money. You dont have to decorate everything in pink just because its Valentine's Day. Use your red table cloth and linens from Christmas, or use other royal colors like deep purple or gold.

Embellishments to Add a Special Touch

Layer a lace table cloth or curtain over a solid colored table linen. Or use a pretty scarf as a runner across the center of the table. No matter what color scheme you choose, as long as you have candles, your table-scape will be romantic.

We love the idea of pulling out mismatched silver or crystal tableware to create a romantic vintage look, too.