Each year couples break the bank while buying for their significant other on Valentine’s Day.

Wade Westfall, electrical engineering sophomore, found some ways to steer clear of the high prices.

“There are lots of ways for you to save money while still showing that you care,” he said. “For example, something simple, like dinner and some candy, can be less pricey but it still shows you’re willing to do something for them.”

Eddie Veenstra, elementary education sophomore, suggested getting crafty.

“You can always make a homemade card,” Veenstra said. “Everyone knows homemade cards are better anyways because they have more thought.”

Westfall would agree that using creativity is often a cheaper alternative to giving traditional gifts. He suggested even using a creative flair when wrapping gifts.

“Gift bags are always something you can work up if you don’t have a lot of time to spare,” Westfall said. “I learned in elementary that you can just take a paper sack and decorate however you want and it works just as well.”

Another way to save is to use coupons. Some websites, such as coupons.com, give deals that are specific to Valentine’s Day. For instance, you can find a coupon for 15 percent off chocolate-covered cherries.

It is also important to remember that the holiday is as much about being together as it is about giving gifts.

“As long as you can spend the day together you’ll be in good shape,” Wesfall said. “Giving gifts is always nice, but even if it’s something small it’s the thought that counts, not the amount of money spent.”