She wanted roses but you brought daises. You thought she was a size 14, instead she’s a 10. She’s expecting dinner out, but all your wallet can afford is the drive-thru. Sounds like you need a Valentine’s Gift Plan before hearts get broken.

Manage Expectations
If your Valentine is expecting a dozen roses but your wallet can only afford marigolds, manage expectations. Be honest about your finances and chances are better that feelings won’t be hurt.

Stay Within Your Means
Leave the credit cards for emergencies and plan out what you can spend on Valentine’s gifts without causing any financial issues. Love is free, but interest on credit cards is not. Create a budget and stick to it.

Know the Refund and Return Policy
If you’re purchasing jewelry, electronics or clothes, either online or through a store, be certain you understand the store’s return policy. If your Valentine isn’t thrilled, knowing that it will be an easy return or one that could cause headaches will make a difference on where you shop.

Know Sizes and Styles
If you want to surprise your Valentine with lingerie or clothing, be certain on the size or give a gift card instead. You don’t want to upset or offend your Valentine with too small or too big a size. If you’re unsure, keep it kind and clip a picture of what you want to purchase and get a gift card to go with it.

Is She Just Being Nice or Does She Really Love Cheese?
Before going on a quest to call your Mother for her recipe for heart-shaped cheese your girlfriend raved about last weekend, make certain this is something your Valentine would really want. Too often a polite gesture is misunderstood and people are given gifts they don’t care for. If you’re not sure, ask.

Remember, it’s all About the Love
Valentine’s Day is about celebrating your love. If you’re tight on funds, then plan little ways to let your special someone know how much they mean to you. Leave notes in the car, cut heart-shaped toast for breakfast or show up at the office and bring them a handmade Valentine’s Day lunch. The key is adding the love to this special occasion.