Every year around this time people spend extravagant amounts of money on items to show their love and appreciation for one another on Valentine’s Day, a holiday that has become a day about showing love through money.

For a holiday based on love, it seems like there is more focus on what to buy as a gift for someone, rather than to buy less and show love in a more simple and impactful way. In 2017 Americans spent a whopping 18.2 billion dollars on Valentine’s Day gifts, according to the National Retail Federation.

It seems wrong to make it a competition on who gets their significant other a better gift. Chocolates and roses come and go, but making new experiences and memories with someone lasts a lifetime.

There are a variety of sources from magazines to websites filled with ideas for what to buy someone for Valentine’s Day. There’re also so many sales that pop up around this time of year especially in jewelry and candy stores. With that being said, it seems like buying someone something is the only thing you can do to show love on Valentine’s Day.

While yes, buying gifts for someone is nice and romantic, no one should go broke on material items. For many, it’s not always the thought that counts. Buying love is so pushed on by companies that it is almost expected by people to get gifts on Valentine’s Day.

Create an impromptu movie night at home and enjoy snacks like candy, popcorn, chips and guacamole. Take a trip to the Grove in Los Angeles, the perfect place to walk around together and grab lunch. Visit the Santa Monica Pier, as it’s a great spot to walk the beach, play games at and watch the sunset. Try following an online cooking tutorial together and make a homemade dinner.

Overall, it’s more significant to share time with someone special than to spend money on products that are less memorable and valuable.