Although many of us harbor bitterness toward the big 'ol V-Day, there are a few broke romantics still out there. Forgive the bad poetry, but it’s got to be done:

Chocolate and flowers,
cards and gifts,
use your RFB powers,
to make little shifts,
that’ll keep your lovers,
diving under the covers.

Our first suggestion is to try and convince your sweetie that the day after Valentine's is actually the best time to celebrate. Why? Because all the candy and heart shaped decorations go on sale! Why pay full price when a short, 24-hour delay will bring discounts galore?

If your valentine isn't buying your cheapskate plan, make a dollar store your best friend. For just a buck, you'll be able to pick up red-packaged chocolates, candies, cards, and decorations. Make the thought count by choosing candy jewelry (necklaces, not underwear), a chocolate rose, and other themed treats and stuffing your finds into a glitter encrusted gift bag. Cheap, but it doesn't have to look that way. Remember, presentation counts. Even a single bloom (plucked from someone's garden only with permission) will shine if wrapped in brown paper and tied with a ribbon.

Going out on V-Day is often pretty pricey. Offer to cook dinner. Even your unskilled self can't do too much damage to a package of pasta and jar of red sauce. A couple of bottles of Two-Buck-Chuck, dollar store ingredients (the 99 Cent Only Store even carries lettuce!), and molten lava cakes (under $5!) from Trader Joes guarantee a low muss/fuss evening of romantice bliss. Don't forget to set the mood by lighting a few candles. Most dollar stores carry tealights or candles of some sort. Avoid strong scents as they will interfere with the enticing smells of your cooking.

You can also go old school. Bust out the doilies, scissors, and felt tip pens. By crafting a giant, tacky card and inscribing it with some inane message of affection, you are sure to win points. Everyone likes to think someone took the time to make a special gift. This isn't for your mother so don't expect it to be hung on the refrigerator, but it may just earn you some very un-mommy-like expressions of thanks.

Happy V-Day! Will you be ours?