Valentine’s Day: A Day of Love, Investment, and Planning for the Future

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about chocolates, flowers, and romantic dinners — it’s a day to express love and appreciation for the ones who matter most, including your partner and your family. But what if this year, we took a step further and looked at Valentine’s Day through a financial lens? As financial advisors, we understand the importance of planning for the future, and what better time than Valentine’s Day to start investing in your love, your relationships, and ultimately, your family’s future?

The Financial Impact of Valentine’s Day: A Look at the Numbers

Americans are known for going all out to celebrate their love on Valentine’s Day. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), Americans spent over $23 billion on Valentine’s Day in 2024. This includes everything from gifts to dinners, travel, and entertainment. In 2025, spending is expected to reach over $25 billion, with consumers shelling out an average of $192 per person for their celebrations.

But what does this mean for you? It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of gift-giving and the desire to make the day memorable, but it’s important to consider how these financial decisions align with your long-term goals. For couples who are looking to make meaningful decisions, this could be an ideal opportunity to shift from impulse spending to more intentional financial choices.

Thinking Outside the Box: Creative Valentine’s Gifts That Can Benefit Your Future

This Valentine’s Day, instead of splurging on extravagant gifts that may not hold long-term value, why not get creative? A great gift doesn’t have to be expensive or fleeting. In fact, some of the best investments you can make for your relationship and future lie in more thoughtful, long-lasting actions.

Here are a few creative ideas that can help strengthen your relationship and investment strategy simultaneously:

1. Start a Joint Investment Account: Investing together isn’t just a way to build wealth — it’s a way to align your goals and start planning for your future. Whether it’s saving for a family vacation, a new home, or retirement, opening a joint investment account can be a meaningful way to show your commitment to each other. By working together toward common financial goals, you’ll create shared experiences that last much longer than any bouquet of roses.
2. Contribute to a College Savings Fund for Your Kids: If you have children or are planning to start a family, Valentine’s Day can be an opportunity to make a small contribution to a 529 college savings plan or another investment vehicle that invests in your family’s future. Contributing to a college fund is a gift that lasts a lifetime, helping your children have the resources they need for their education.
3. Fund a Charitable Donation in Their Name: If your partner is passionate about a cause or charity, making a donation in their name can be a meaningful gift. It reflects both your love and commitment to something greater than yourselves. Many financial advisors encourage clients to set up charitable gifting strategies that can not only make a positive impact on your community but also offer tax benefits.
4. Invest in Experiences, Not Just Material Goods: Research shows that people tend to derive greater happiness from experiences than from material items.¹ Why not plan a Valentine’s Day getaway, a weekend retreat, or a new hobby that both of you can enjoy together? By investing in experiences, you are creating lasting memories that are invaluable.
5. Reevaluate Your Family’s Budget and Financial Goals: Valentine’s Day offers an opportunity to hit the reset button on your family’s financial plans. Take the time to discuss your future, dreams, and financial priorities. Set new goals together — whether it’s increasing retirement savings, buying a home, or starting a family. Financial advisors recommend regular check-ins to ensure your goals are aligned and that you’re both committed to the path ahead.

The Importance of Planning Ahead: Protecting Your Future Together

While spontaneous romantic gestures are wonderful, true love also involves planning for the long-term future together. The key is to be proactive and ensure that you are not only securing your immediate happiness but also preparing for the financial challenges and milestones that may arise in the future. Here’s some ways to approach your financial decisions today to help prepare for tomorrow:

• Create or Update Your Estate Plan: Estate planning is essential for couples. It’s important to ensure that your wishes for healthcare and financial decisions are made clear, particularly if you are planning to start a family or have dependents. Make sure you both have updated wills, power of attorney documents, and healthcare directives in place. Financial advisors, like our team at Global Wealth Advisors, recommend reviewing these documents regularly to ensure they align with your evolving life circumstances.
• Invest in Long-Term Insurance: Life insurance and long-term care insurance can provide peace of mind to your family’s future, helping protect both you and your partner in case of unexpected events. This is especially important if you have children or are relying on one partner’s income.
• Retirement Planning: A common goal for couples is to retire comfortably, but that requires planning. Assessing and contributing to retirement accounts, whether it’s a 401(k), IRA, or other retirement vehicle, can help secure your financial future. Setting clear, measurable goals for retirement and working with a financial advisor can assist both partners with being on the same page and set to retire with confidence.

The Takeaway: Love is More Than a Gift — It’s an Investment in Your Future

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and affection, but it’s also a perfect opportunity to reflect on your relationship and your shared financial goals. Rather than simply spending money on fleeting gifts, think about how you can make investments — both emotional and financial — that will pay dividends in the years to come.

By working together with your partner to set clear financial goals, investing in your family’s future, and making thoughtful decisions, you’ll not only grow closer as a couple but also help strengthen your financial security.

So, this Valentine’s Day, consider the gift that keeps on giving: a strong financial foundation for the years ahead.

Happy Valentine’s Day — here’s to love, investment, and a prosperous future together.

 

[1]https://news.utexas.edu/2020/03/09/spending-on-experiences-versus-possessions-advances-more-immediate-happiness

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