Romance On A Budget

Looking to celebrate a holiday or a special occasion? Being a downscaler can pay off big. In romance, ingenuity counts more than cash. Consider these ideas from Edith Kilgo, editor of Creative Downscaling newsletter. 

Go for nostalgia: Give your beloved a gift recalling the tender days of your courtship: a photo collage; a book of poetry you read together long ago; an enlarged and framed favorite snapshot. 

Give a serenade: Tapes of romantic music you’ve enjoyed in the past are good, but even better is a music box that plays “your song.” 

Plant one: Roses are expensive. Consider a tree instead. What? You don’t think a tree is romantic? Ever hear of moonlight and magnolias? 

Candy is dandy: forget the standard chocolates. Most of us have some kind of nostalgic yearning for something mundane that’s hard to find. Whether it’s gumdrops or jellybeans, go the extra trouble to find what he or she really craves. 

Make a special evening: Maybe you can’t afford much, but a home-cooked meal, a luxurious bubble bath, and a massage are always welcome. 

Serve up a theme: Serve him a heart-shaped cake. Give her a locket. Rent a romantic film at the video store. Take a heart-healthy, long, moonlight walk together. 

Get framed: Poetry is nice, but most of us aren’t up to it. Instead, write your beloved a letter of praise. Have it copied in calligraphy script and framed. 

Create a romantic basket: Choose any or all of the following to present in a pretty basket: romantic music on a cassette or CD; a favorite video or a wonderful love story; a classic love story in paperback; love poems; bath crystals; your favorite drink; two scented candles; and a wonderful edible in just two servings. 

Take over a chore: Does your sweetie hate washing the car or making dinner? Even if you aren’t good at it, the effort will be appreciated. 

Revisit your childhood: Make a crepe paper box and stuff it with declarations of your love. It is better than a store bought card. 

Excerpt from the book: The RoMANtic's Guide  by Michael Webb

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