That one day of the year that pressures you into showing your partner how much you care about them is quickly approaching! Yep, I’m talking about valentine’s day ideas.
Many people think Valentine’s Day is overrated/superficial/lame and don’t pay attention to this pressure.
But for those of you who do and don’t want to break the bank, here are some cheap and easy college-friendly Valentine’s Day ideas.
And if you’re feeling lazy, you can always pick up one of these awesome (and affordable!) Valentine’s day gifts to go with these ideas!
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Romantic Indoor Picnic
Depending on where you live, February can be a cold month. So why not cozy up in front of the fireplace with your date for a romantic indoor picnic?
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bedsure Fleece Blanket Twin Blanket Burgundy - 300GSM Soft Lightweight Plush Cozy Twin Blankets for Bed, Sofa, Couch, Travel, Camping, 60x80 inches to sit on
- Dailyart Globe String Light,LED Starry Light Fairy Light for Wedding,Xmas Party (Warm White, Battery-Powered, 13feet/4meters) to set the mood after dimming the room light. (P.S. You can also use these as decorations to transform your college dorm room)
- BESKIT 3000 PCS Artificial Silk Rose Petals for Valentine Day Wedding Party Flower Decoration (Dark Red) to lay around the room
- No products found. to set the mood. You can also opt-in for a scented candle as well
- champagne (if you’re over 21) or sparkling cider, chocolates, roses, cupcakes or any foods and treats of your choice
Jar of Love Notes
This is an easy DIY gift that will show your date how much you care about them without breaking the bank!
Here’s what you’ll need:
-
- list of romantic quotes or personal messages you’d like to write on each message (consider creating a Word/Google doc)
- a glass jar – Bormioli Rocco - SYNCHKG122276 Fido Clear Glass Jar with 85 mm Gasket,1 Liter (Pack of 2) | Anchor Hocking 1 Gallon Glass Penny Jar with Lid (4 piece, silver metal, dishwasher safe)
- TANMIT Gel Pens, 36 Colors Gel Pens Set for Adult Coloring Books, Colored Gel Pen Fine Point Marker, Great for Kids Adult Doodling Scrapbooking Drawing Writing Sketching
- optional: Red Curling Ribbon (1 roll) (can also be used for balloons or on gift bag)
“Open When” Letters
A great alternative to the jar of love notes is a collection of handwritten letters designated for a specific event/emotion. You can have notes to “open when” they’re sad, bored, angry at you, missing you, and more! Be sure to make them handwritten to add that personal touch that will melt their heart!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- your list of emotions or events when your partner should open the letters (and your messages) pre-planned in a Word/Google doc
- TANMIT Gel Pens, 36 Colors Gel Pens Set for Adult Coloring Books, Colored Gel Pen Fine Point Marker, Great for Kids Adult Doodling Scrapbooking Drawing Writing Sketching
- envelopes – either #10 Security Tinted Self-Seal Envelopes - No Window - EnveGuard, Size 4-1/8 X 9-1/2 Inches - White - 24 LB - 100 Count (34100) or 1InTheOffice EasyClose Neon Brights Color Envelopes, #10, Assorted, 4 1/8"H x 9 1/2"W, 50/Pack (Assorted Neon Brights)
- you can also use this great guide for 153 open when letter ideas!
Romantic (Netflix) Movie Night
Not just any regular movie night, a romantic one! Since most restaurants will be packed, opt to spend the night in and order some take-out or cook.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- a Netflix account (who would’ve thought) or Redbox movies
- BESKIT 3000 PCS Artificial Silk Rose Petals for Valentine Day Wedding Party Flower Decoration (Dark Red) to lay around the room
- take out of your choice unless you decide to cook!
Send them flowers at work/home
Maybe you’re in a long-distance relationship and won’t be able to see your valentine this year. Sending them flowers and chocolates with a personalized message can still make their day!
At the end of the day, Valentine’s day is about showing that person how much you love and care about them. Make your gift/date ideas personalized and sweet and they’re bound to love it!
Before you go! Don’t miss out on some amazing gift ideas to throw in with these romantic ideas:

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