This year Valentine's Day falls on a Friday, and that may be cause for celebration throughout the weekend. Whether you plan on buying gifts for your significant other, children, parents, friends, coworkers and/or pets; treating yourself to something special; or purchasing an "anti-Valentine's Day" gift, consider these ideas that cut down on waste:
Even as fewer consumers have official Valentine's Day plans, those who do celebrate are spending more than ever. Approximately $20.7 billion was spent in 2019. – National Retail Federation
Jewelry: An estimated $3.9 billion spent in 2019
Look for pieces that are long-lasting and are made of sustainably sourced metals and minerals. Or do you have an heirloom or special item from your home to gift?
An Evening Out: An estimated $3.5 billion spent in 2019
Basic Pasta Recipe - Allrecipes.com
Make a meal at home getting creative with the ingredients stocked in your refrigerator and pantry. Have you tried making your own fresh pasta?
Flowers: An estimated $1.9 billion spent in 2019
Avoid cut flowers that only last a few days and opt for a potted plant or flowers that can be planted outside in the spring. How about planting a tree with someone special and watching it grow together?Clothing: An estimated $2.1 billion spent in 2019
Instead of buying new clothing, visit a boutique consignment shop or thrift shop, and curate an outfit for your special someone.Candy: An estimated $1.8 billion spent in 2019
Two-Ingredient Fudge Recipe | MyRecipes | MyRecipes
Have leftover candy bars or chocolate from the previous holidays? Make an easy 2-ingredient fudge!Gift Cards: An estimated $1.3 billion spent in 2019
What's the appeal of experience gifts? For many consumers, it's an opportunity to create a special memory or simply be unique. Consider gift cards to dance or cooking classes, comedy shows, or a hot air balloon ride.Greeting Cards: An estimated $933 million spent in 2019
Grab a pair of scissors and get savvy using photos, stickers or other reusable or recyclable items around your home.Short on time? Print out the Valentine cards below that double as fill-in coupons for your loved ones!