How to treat your loved one without breaking the bank

MORE than half (56%) of adults bought Valentine’s Day gifts for a partner last year, spending on average £27 each, research by American Express reveals.

And it wasn’t just partners receiving Valentine’s treats. Some people (19% of the 2,000 surveyed) showered their pets with gifts too, spending £5 a pop on average.

Planning to show the love by dipping into your wallet this February 14? American Express offers these top tips for avoiding Valentine’s Day overspend:

Swap dinner for brunch or lunch

If you plan to dine out, the time of day can influence the bill, so why not go out for brunch or lunch instead of the traditional evening meal? Often restaurants have weekday lunch, and avoiding peak times guarantees a more intimate setting. Meaningful gifts If your loved one is notoriously tricky to buy for, consider a personalised present – from jewellery engraved with their initials to a bottle of wine from your anniversary year. Check for last-minute tickets A last-minute theatre, ballet or comedy show can be an ideal spontaneous date. Often you can get discounted seats if you buy tickets the morning of the performance. Share the love Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to be just for two, so why not organise a group dinner or trip with friends and family? A group gettogether also means you can split the cost between more people – although perhaps check whether your partner is OK with this first. Points make presents Whether it’s your partner or pet that you’re spoiling this Valentine’s Day, check how many points you’ve accrued on your credit, charge or loyalty card, as you might be able to redeem them for some gifts.