Thrifty Thursday: V-Day Gift Ideas

On Monday I ranted about forgoing Valentine's Day gifts. Unfortunately when you have children, that's almost near impossible. Kid's love Valentine's Day. Remember (girls) how excited you used to get for the classroom Valentine's Day party? Every year I would sift through the box of those really cheesy cards sorting out what classmate would get which card. God forbid, I give a boy one that might hint I had a crush on him. I would then tape the card to a box of Sweethearts and call it good.

Remember those??

Sadly nowadays, that simple gesture would be considered so taboo. How dare you buy a pre-made card. With all the crafty moms, free printable templates online, buzillion styles of craft paper and how-to blogs on making creative, adorable projects, it's expected that you step up your game. Right? I'm thinking more like, (Humph) "YEAH RIGHT!!!!!" Hopefully being a mom of boys I won't have to ever worry about stepping up my game but if you are feeling a little pressure to get cutesy this Valentine's Day, I suggest one of the following inexpensive ideas that I particularly loved compliments of Martha Stewart:

Treat Packages {For their classmates or closest friends}
To make these custom treat packages, cut out a picture of your child, scan it, and print onto heavyweight matte paper. Cut tags using pinking shears for the bottom edges, draw hearts, and stamp or write a message on each one. Fold the tags and tape them to cellophane bags filled with sweets. I think pink, red and white M&M's would be adorable in the clear bags.

Heart-and-Lollipop Flowers {For the classmates}
With just a bag of lollipops and some construction paper, colorful hearts flourish as the petals of a new flower variety - one with a lollipop center and stem. For the tutorial on how to make these, click here.

X's and O's Cupcakes {For the class party}
These cupcakes bear hugs and kisses and will put a sugary smile on everyone's face. All you need is a box of Red Velvet cake mix, cream cheese frosting and some red candies.

Heart-Shaped Tea Bags {For the teacher or a mommy friend}

Warm someone up by adding a handwritten note to a tea bag. Package tea bags with coffee mug in cellophane wrap for a memorable gift that will warm anyone's heart. For a tutorial on how to make, click here.

Clap Happy {For the teacher}

Give your children's teachers a big round of applause and a little luxury: a tube of hand lotion.

Sweet Surprises {For a teacher, friend or special someone}
If you're giving chocolates as a gift, count the ways sweetly on small paper disks, and place one beneath each candy. There's nothing better than a surprise gesture from the heart.

 
Coupon Books {For your children or someone special}

I've always loved this idea. In fact, I've made a few back in my day. They are a cute idea to give to your kids from yourself. You can include things they particularly love like: "Good for one - day at the park" or "Good for one - dinner of your choice." You can also make them for your special someone with things specific to his/her likes. Need some coupon ideas? Just Google "Love coupon books" and your screen will overflow with free templates.

Didn't see one you liked? Click here for many more ideas from Martha.