Alpha Consumer

Valentine’s Day: Spend or Save?

By Kimberly Palmer

Posted: January 29, 2008

The National Retail Federation reports that the average person will spend almost $123 celebrating Valentine's Day this year. But instead of buying candy or flowers, which will be slightly less popular, consumers will lavish the objects of their affection with nights out and even gift cards.

Have you decided what you're getting your loved one yet? Does it come close to the $123 average? I'm all for romance, but that sounds like a lot to me.

For the men out there, here's one more fact to keep in mind, based on the NRF survey: Men, on average, will spend almost twice as much as women to celebrate the day: $163 compared with $85. But before men feel pressure to keep up with that average, let's ask the ladies if they really want such lavish gifts. Personally, I'd rather my husband kept that money in the bank.

Oh that's so sweet! I love getting flowers.

Kimberly Palmer of DC @ Jan 31, 2008 14:37:17 PM

We typically shun valentine's day... until I realize that everyone around me has gotten flowers and I have asked for nothing. Luckily they're usually waiting for me when I get home :)

Nicole of IL @ Jan 31, 2008 10:37:37 AM

I think gift baskets are a great idea because its romanitc and can be personal. Its a day of love and spending it with those you love makes sense. You can get a gourmet gift basket and go on a picnic. Great for the whole family or two. You could buy a romance gift basket and make it a day to use it all the time.

Mireya-ExpressionableShopping.com of CA @ Jan 29, 2008 23:39:41 PM

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Alpha Consumer

Alpha Consumer

Kimberly Palmer, senior editor for U.S. News & World Report, writes about how to save money, avoid scams, manage debt, and be a savvy shopper. Send your personal finance questions to her for expert money advice.


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