Even if the words “Valentine’s Day” strike fear in your heart, coming up with romantic ideas for Valentine's Day for your sweetie needn't be an impossible, nor an overly expensive, task. With a little thought and effort, a romantic Valentine's Day is well within reach.

Special Gifts
In lieu of the traditional dozen red roses, consider giving her a bouquet of flowers that will bring up a past memory. If you are married, give her an arrangement of the same flowers that were used in her wedding bouquet. If you are not yet married, give her a bouquet of wildflowers that will remind her of that special picnic you took in the park last summer. Include a thoughtful card reminding her of that day and the memories the flowers evoke for you. Such a thoughtful Valentine's Day gift is sure to melt her heart this year without breaking your budget.

Instead of giving one present, leave thoughtful little presents around the house for her to find throughout the day. Place a rose next to her pillow, one next to the toaster and one in her car so that she will be continually reminded of how much you care. Other thoughtful Valentine's Day presents might include some of her favorite hand lotion, a small box of decadent chocolates, a bottle of nice wine for the two of you to enjoy once you arrive home, a miniature, single-layer replica of your wedding cake, or a letter telling her how much you love her. These gifts do not need to be expensive; they are just thoughtful little mementos that will let her know how much you care as she goes about her day.

Remember the Past
One truly romantic idea for Valentine's Day is to surprise her with a spontaneous trip back to the place where you first met. Even if it is an evening of spicy hot wings and cheap beer at an old college bar, you are sure to have a wonderful time reminiscing about the first moments you spoke to one another. Alternatively, take her back to the place where you had your first date for a romantic supper. Revisiting the foundations of your relationship will help rekindle those first romantic butterflies you both experienced so long ago.

If your budget allows it, consider planning a weekend getaway for your romantic Valentine's Day celebration. It is not necessary to travel a long distance or to an exotic destination to enjoy a fabulous and relaxing trip. No matter where you live, you can find interesting spots for a weekend away within several hours of your home. Rent a rustic cabin in a nearby park. Reserve a room at a bed and breakfast in a nearby town. Arrange to stay overnight in the hotel you stayed in on your wedding night. Getting away from the hustle and bustle of your ordinary lives, even if just for a night, can be enough to renew the spark in your relationship and help to ensure that your Valentine's Day will be a day to remember.

She Comes First
Another great romantic Valentine's Day idea is to purchase tickets to a concert, event or museum your significant other will enjoy. If she is a history buff, show her how much you care by taking her on a trip to a local historical site or museum. Buy two tickets for both of you to see her favorite band, comedian, play, opera or ballet. Such a present will be especially meaningful if it is something that you yourself would not normally select. She will be impressed by the thoughtfulness of your Valentine's Day present and she will appreciate your willingness to set aside your preferences and put her wishes first for an evening.

If your budget is particularly tight this year, consider giving your sweetheart a book full of thoughtful coupons she can redeem at a later date. Include romantic Valentine's Day coupons for a 20-minute back rub, a car wash, an afternoon where you will watch the kids while she goes out with her friends, a dinner out at her favorite local eatery or a night when you will cook dinner for the family (complete with dishwashing, of course). She will be both impressed and touched by your thoughtfulness.

Create lasting memories on Valentine's Day, not with the presents you buy, but with the memories you make. By focusing on what truly matters, you are that much closer to sharing the most romantic Valentine's Day of your life with your special someone.