Harris: 10 ways to love your mate and love your money

By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Coach at Southern Bancorp

According to the lyrics of a popular song, love is a many-splendored thing! Being in love is wonderful when it’s with the right person, and when your finances are thoughtfully considered in the dynamics of the relationship. Loving your mate and loving your money can happen at the same time with careful and creative planning. Below are some suggestions for planning a special Valentine’s Day moment with someone you love — while staying gentle on your budget.

1. Cook or cater a special multi-course meal.
   You can save money and skip the crowded restaurant scene by cooking together. You can also consider hiring a private chef to prepare an exclusive meal just for you and your mate.
   
2. Schedule a “quiet” night.
   Ask friends or relatives to take your kids for the evening so you can have the house to yourselves. Enjoy uninterrupted time together. Be sure to return the favor for them another time.
   
3. Create a Do-It-Yourself gift basket.
   Choose five or six things you know your partner loves — candles, snacks, drinks, fuzzy socks, and more. Create a DIY gift basket to give on Valentine’s Day. Supplies are easy to find at a local dollar store.
   
4. Watch a YouTube cooking class.
   Select a menu and set up your own personalized cooking class using YouTube videos to guide you through making a fancy dinner for two. I’ve watched my son and his then-girlfriend (now wife) do this, and they loved it! Pre-planning — like choosing the menu and purchasing ingredients — will help. Quality time and quality food with your mate are priceless.
   
5. Plan a movie marathon.
   Pick a theme — romantic comedies, thrillers, or a favorite actor — and binge-watch together. Make it extra cozy with blankets, pillows, and plenty of snacks. Rent or pre-record the movies and watch to your heart’s content. A cozy evening for two will be the only “spending” you’ll be doing!
   
6. Go “off the grid.”
   Unplug for the day by turning off your phones, smartwatches, and TV. Focus entirely on each other with no distractions. It’s a simple yet powerful way to reconnect — and you may even save a little on your electric bill.
   
7. Plan a surprise for each other.
   Take turns surprising each other with small, thoughtful gestures, such as breakfast in bed, a heartfelt note, or a favorite homemade treat. The element of surprise adds excitement to your day.
   
8. Write a romantic handwritten note or letter.
   It might sound old-fashioned, but it works. A heartfelt message sharing what you appreciate about your mate, a favorite memory, or what you’re looking forward to in the year ahead costs nothing and often means more than a store-bought card. Anyone can purchase a gift, but expressing your feelings in writing is something your partner may treasure forever.
   
9. Plan a “no-spend” date night.
   Turn budgeting into part of the experience. Challenge your mate to plan a date using only what you already have at home. Creativity encouraged — and no money required.
   
10. Schedule a personal couples’ spa night.
    Give each other massages and enjoy pampering sessions at home. Purchase inexpensive facial masks, foot-soak products, body oils, or press-on nails. Take turns caring for each other and spend time focusing on your mate’s comfort and relaxation.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to be meaningful. Whether you’re sharing laughs over a game, exploring the outdoors, or creating a one-of-a-kind experience, the focus should be on building memories and celebrating your love. Get creative, have fun, and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.

The most memorable Valentine’s Days aren’t about how much money is spent — they’re about feeling special, loved, and connected. If you’re working to stay on budget or reduce financial stress, choosing affordable Valentine’s Day ideas isn’t “settling.” It’s making intentional choices that support both your relationship and your financial well-being.

Money stress can spill into personal relationships every day, but thoughtful planning — whether for holidays or long-term goals — can ease that pressure and make more room for what truly matters: love.

For more information on this and other financial topics, you can email me at charlestienharris77@gmail.com, or write to me at Post Office Box 1825, Clarksdale, MS 38614.

Until next week — stay financially fit!

Charlestien Harris is our financial contributor, a retired financial coach with Southern Bancorp.