Money and Valentines Day
Here is another snippet in my series on Money and Valentines Day. This is how UK money blogger Nikki views money
and Valentines Day. You can check out her blog at The Female Money Doctor.
Do come back to check out my funny valentine story later.
Nikki was asked about her views on getting children involved in Valentines Day activities. Her views are below.
I don’t have kids, but I remember when I was young (maybe 11 years old?), having the humiliation of not receiving any cards on Valentines Day when other kids around me did (except I did get one from my mum, which, looking back was very sweet, but only made me more embarrassed at the time). Maybe I’ll think differently when I have children, but in all honesty, I don’t feel it is necessary for children to be involved in Valentines Day. It’s added pressure to be “liked” by someone, and could potentially be devastating for them if they’re not.
If they absolutely need to be involved, why not make it about something worthwhile like giving a hand-made card or gift to an older person living on their own to brighten their day. I’d rather this than expose a child to what is ultimately a popularity contest at school.
Nikki shares her views on her significant other’s spending habits at Valentines:
It wouldn’t bother me if he didn’t spend much. An acknowledgment with a card or breakfast in bed would be enough! We show that we love each other throughout the year, and one day isn’t going to suddenly enhance that!
Do you think couples should agree to a spending limit for valentines? Why or why not?
Yes, I think they should, especially if one earns more than the other. It takes the pressure off. There is no need to go crazy with spending at Valentines. It’s another “holiday” that has been taken over by various different companies selling gifts and cards in an attempt to separate us from our money. I’d rather save up and do something memorable together like a trip away which can be done at any time. I don’t need another teddy!
What’s your view on the statement that ‘men are rubbish at choosing/buying proper Valentine’s gifts?
No, I don’t think they are. I think men can be very good at choosing presents. My boyfriend knows me very well, and in fact, probably knows me better than I know myself sometimes! He has no problems with the gift giving department! It doesn’t hurt to leave hints around though. Men aren’t generally receptive to subtlety, so if there is something you really want, tell him (or tell his mum, and she can tell him!).
Now the Fun Bit on Money and Valentines Day
Share a funny Valentine story
It’s not exactly a funny story, more a romantic one. Two years ago, I was in Australia as part of a 5-month trip away. My boyfriend was back at home in England, so I decided to send him a parcel for Valentines Day. I had collected together bits from Australia which included TimTams (if you’ve never done a TimTam Slam you’re missing out!), Aussie-sweets and a mini guidebook for Thailand (which is where we were meeting at the end of my trip). It was all going well until the post office made me write in detail what was in the box on the outside label. Obviously, this gave away what was inside, which sucked, because it ruined my surprise, but thank goodness it wasn’t anything risqué! Needless to say, it all ended well, and he appreciated the gifts. We just need to go back now to pick up some more TimTams!
What would you like for yourself for Valentines this year?
I’d love a surprise experience for Valentines Day – may be a long weekend somewhere or a hot-air balloon ride with champagne. Incidentally, I and my partner are off to South Africa in February, and we’ll be celebrating the day there! We don’t have any plans yet, but I know we’ll find something fun to do. I can’t wait!
Thanks so much to Nikki for her thoughts. My favourite take from it is this statement: Valentines is just another “holiday” that has been taken over by various different companies selling gifts and cards in an attempt to separate us from our money.
What are your views on money and Valentines Day? Are they even related? Share your comments below. You can check out what some of the male UK money bloggers had to say about love and money.
My daughter always take part in Valentine’s Day …it feels so good when you receive their lovely cards and gift htt…great post
I think is pretty common for people to feel under some sort of pressure to impress their loved one with extravagant gifts. Its is a commercial holiday and I genuinely believe most people have lost sight of the true meaning now. I personally dont feel the need to spend any money, I prefer something personal such a nice cooked meal homemade card, massage etc. There are better ways to show your love and it should be all year round too!
Definitely, agree with the added pressure put on children to be liked on Valentines! I have a distinct memory as a child of handing out beautiful, handmade valentines to my classmates only to have them ripped up in front of my face 🙁 For years I hated Valentines due that incident, luckily my now husband gave me the best Valentines ever the first year we were dating to make up for it!
Oh! Hugs Olivia. I’m glad you’re on the happier side of the celebrations now. Thanks for popping by.
I totally agree – there is so many fun celebrations for kids. No need to make Valentines day to be also “big deal” for them
Thanks for your opinion Ethel. And thanks for stopping by.
Valentine’s Day does bring in a lot of pressure to those in love as you do want your partner to feel special .But I do not support going extravagant , any thoughtfully chosen gift will do .I am very happy with a simple flower too .
You’re better off not setting your expectations too high. Thanks for stopping by.
I loved this, thanks for sharing this. It was super helpful xo http://www.themoderndaygirlfriend.com