By Sloane Samberson
staff writer
It is often that high schoolers will be young and in love, wanting to treat their sweetheart with meaningful gifts and the finest of dates, but oftentimes, a high school student’s budget can be a little tight, especially if their parents do not pay regularly for the things they “want”.
No worries, this Valentine’s Day does not have to be a bust like in previous years, because I have come up with four festive and sentimental date ideas that will not blow your budget.
Outdoor or indoor picnic – Depending on the weather, have a cute picnic at a local park, in your backyard or even in your gameroom. Any blanket will work, and if you have candles, you can always light them for flare. If you want to go all out, buy a rose or two and sprinkle the petals amongst the blanket. Your picnic, no matter its location, will look very romantic. For a main dish, you can make finger sandwiches such as cucumber and cream cheese or a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. For sides, buy a big bag of your favorite chips and some green grapes. Simple but delicious, and you probably already have a bunch of the ingredients at home. Estimated cost: $10-15 for food ingredients, and for decorations $2 per rose stem and $8 for a set of plates and napkins.
Candle lit pizza dinner (and a movie) – I mean, who doesn’t love pizza? Light a few candles, order out a large pizza from Papa John’s or Pizza Hut and choose your favorite romance or romantic comedy movie, you’ll be set for a laid back night. Estimated cost: on average a large cheese pizza costs $15, and depending on if you need to buy candles and festive plates/napkin, your total will be around $25-$30.
Homemade Italian dinner – For those who love to cook, make spaghetti. It is cheap, delicious and perfect for your sweetheart. Click here for an easy and cost friendly spaghetti recipe. On the side of the website, they even show you what is on sale at your local grocery store. You could also buy frozen garlic bread. I prefer New York Brand: The Original Thick Slice Texas Toast with real garlic, which costs only $2.42 at Walmart. To set the mood, play italian music or Frank Sinatra, and light a candle or two. Estimated cost: $20 for spaghetti ingredients and garlic bread.
Double date with friends – If you really want to go out and face the Valentine’s Day craziness of restaurants, invite another couple and split the cost! You’ll have an awesome time bonding over food and laughter. Some awesome date places close to home would be Palio’s, Simmer and Black Walnut Cafe. Estimated cost: $10-$20 per person; go for a more cost conscious dish if you don’t want to break the bank, or split an entree.
For more Valentine’s Day decorations go to Party City:
735 Hebron Pkwy
Lewisville, TX
(469) 549-9930
or visit their website here.
Party City typically has coupons or special deals on select items, you just have to keep a look out. Right now they are selling all patterned tableware for 50 percent off the original price, this includes all patterned Valentine’s Day plates, napkins and cups.
