Mom Knows Best

Useful information intended for college students and graduates starting out on their own, from daily living tips, to recipes, freebies, budgeting and much, much more.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Countdown to Valentine's Day: A Guide for the Frugal College Student

No, you didn’t miss it! There is still time to remember your mom, dad, grandparents, siblings, significant other, and friends on Valentine's Day, but you need to get moving if you are planning to pop a card or gift in the mail and hope that it arrives by Saturday. No sense breaking your budget. There are many options to consider.

First of all, instead of paying $3, $4, $6 or more for greeting cards, consider a few more reasonable and practical options. Many dollar stores frequently sell greeting cards for the amazing price of 2 for $1 and sometimes even designer handmade cards for $1, if you time it right. Take a look around at the variety of other Valentine treats worth considering. From decorations for your dorm room, apartment, or common area, to candy, boxed cards, and even helium balloons for all occasions (though I am not encouraging balloons since they are bad for the environment!), you are bound to find something festive all for the remarkable price of $1.

Secondly, consider an e-card. Hallmark.com offers a decent selection of free e-cards for any occasion. The best part is that they can be sent at the last moment, in case you neglected to plan ahead. Feel like splurging? You will find additional themed e-cards for 99 cents, with characters from some of your favorite shows and movies, like 30 Rock, The Office, Juno, and more, all on the Hallmark site.

On Americangreetings.com choose from a limited selection of free e-cards. In addition, there are a variety of free cards to print, for Valentine's Day and other occasions.

The stores are overstocked with Valentine treats. With a weak economy they are eager to move the merchandise, so be on the lookout for lots of terrific last minute sales. Stores, like Target for instance, sell dollar items perfect for holiday celebrations, from the sublime to the ridiculous, and many in between. Themed holiday socks are always available for a dollar or more.

You needn't be extravagant when celebrating Valentine's Day. However, this holiday provides you with the perfect excuse to let those who have positively impacted your life know that you value them.

When all else fails, there is always the cell phone. No excuses. We all know that you are never without your phone. Take a minute to call your mom. She will be impressed that you remembered and it will be our little secret.

As for me, I will be nibbling chocolates while I wait for the phone to ring, or perhaps a text message. Share the love.

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