Expert shares affordable ways to celebrate Valentine's Day without breaking the bank

WASHINGTON, D.C. (7News) — Americans will open their hearts and their wallets for Valentine’s Day.

Last year spending reached a record $26 billion. And spending this year is expected to top that, at $27 and a half billion, according to the National Retail Federation.

Whether it's a heart-shaped box of chocolates or a dozen red roses, people are looking for ways to express their affection this Valentine's Day without breaking the bank.

Shopping expert Trae Bodge shares some of the biggest trends this year.

"For Valentine's Day, I think the big category is going to be self-care," Bodge said. "Believe it or not, there's a Bread Financial poll that found that 74% of Americans are spending more in self-care. They're prioritizing this, and men are outspending women now. So we're talking about wellness and also skincare, hair care, fragrance. And so if you've always wanted to take your male partner for a couple's massage, this might be the year to do that."

If you're looking for traditional flowers, Bodge said, shop around.

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"Lots of flower providers will be offering deals, but sometimes they tend to inflate the cost and then discount the inflated cost," Bodge said. "So just shop around a little bit. See if it's better to maybe do delivery, or perhaps buy a few bouquets at your grocery store and put them together in an artful way. That's a great way to save money."

A new DoULike survey found almost 70% plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day, and a quarter of those say dinner is the best gift of all.

But to save money, avoid going out on Feb. 14.

"I am not a fan of the romantic dinner out on Valentine's Day, simply because so many restaurants have a prix fixe. You're locked into certain things that you may not want. Maybe you don't want five courses, for example. I just don't love it. I think it's good to go on another night if your partner is open. My husband and I always do this," Bodge said. "We go a couple nights before, a couple nights after, and have just as fabulous a time at a fraction of the cost. Or cook at home, and that's very romantic to do, to plan a menu and cook that menu together. I love that for Valentine's Day. Very romantic."

Jewelry is another popular item for Valentine's Day. Many retailers will be offering sales. Bodge said to wait until the last minute to buy chocolates.

You could get them for 50% off if you shop on Valentine's Day. And if you're looking for a Valentine's Day card, you can find a great deal at the Dollar Store.