Diamonds might be a girl’s best friend, but not every romantic gift has to drain your bank account. If you need a gift for the love of your life but money is a little tight right now, you can easily find sentimental, thoughtful, and even romantic gifts for under $30. Sometimes the perfect gift just takes a little extra thought and effort. Put an emphasis on what your partner loves rather than on the price tag and you’ll see what we mean. Here are seven great ideas for romantic gifts under $30 to help get you started.

#1. Personalized Handmade Gifts That Tug At The Heartstrings

Support small businesses and get a personalized handmade gift through a local seller or on the popular maker space ETSY. You’ll find a variety of customizable products to fulfill every personality and taste. Pillows, artwork, blankets, keychains, jewelry, glasses and so much more can be personalized with names and dates.

Personalizing items with names and dates is a great romantic idea for birthdays, anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day. You can choose the date you met, your first date anniversary, your wedding day, or any important event in your life together. According to Business Wire, the global market for Personalized Gifts was estimated at US $25.8 billion in 2020 but is projected to reach a revised size of US $43.3 billion by 2027. This is evidence that the personalized gift market is super trendy and popular right now, making it a great gift idea for any occasion.

#2. Framed Photos To Preserve Your Favorite Memories

The very act of framing a beloved photograph goes beyond simple home decor. By providing a framed photo as a gift, you’re telling the recipient that this is a significant memory for you that should be immortalized and cherished. Finding the just-right frame can be a gift within itself. Have your favorite photo of the two of you enlarged and framed to fill a special spot in your living room, bedroom, or office. This framed photo can be a constant reminder of your love for each other and the good times you’ve had as a couple. Check out these romantic things to do in Nashville and enjoy an amazing time as a couple.

#3. Fun Socks And Other Clothing 

The humble sock shouldn’t be overlooked as a romantic gesture. What’s so romantic about a pair of socks? A cozy pair of patterned socks say you care about your loved one’s comfort and admire their sense of style. A stylish pair of socks will always come in handy, and some companies like No Cold Feet even offer special occasion gift sets for holidays like Valentine’s Day. You can even get a customized label for your sock gift set.

For other low budget apparel ideas, you can get a funny couple’s t-shirt, some comfy pajamas, or other classic accessories like bags and ties. The important part is knowing the personal tastes of your partner and showing them that you pay attention to details.

#4. Gratitude Journals, Planners, And Diaries

Not everyone wants a sappy romantic gift. To some people a practical and useful gift means the world. A stylish planner can make a very romantic gift, especially if you fill it in with future date nights and activities planned for the two of you. Bookmark the dates you filled in for an extra special touch. Another thoughtful romantic gift is a gratitude journal. A gratitude journal is like a diary, but in it you record just the things in your life that you are thankful for. This is a great gift idea for anyone that is empathetic and reflective.

#5. Candles Are Very Romantic

Setting the mood usually involves lighting a few candles so why not stock up as a romantic gift? Candles come in a lot of different sizes, colors, and scents. You can buy something off the shelf or get a customized candle online. Here are some candle scents that are generally perceived to be romantic:

  • Wild Jasmine
  • Ylang Ylang
  • Rose
  • Sandalwood
  • Amber
  • Lotus Blossom
  • Warm Vanilla
  • Strawberry 
  • Dark Cherry
  • Merlot

You can use candles on the table during romantic dinners, to add ambiance to any room, or around your tub for a relaxing bubble bath.

#6. Spa & Self-Care Gifts

While a day spa gift card might cost a pretty penny, there are plenty of at-home spa and self-care gifts you can buy for under $30. Self-care has been a popular buzzword for the last few years, especially in the context of mental health and relaxation. What better way to show you care than inviting your BAE to take a break and pamper themselves? You can combine a few spa gifts together in a basket for an elegant presentation.

One great addition to any spa gift basket is bath bombs. Bath bombs are colorful scented balls of soap and essential oils that help create a relaxing bubble bath. Relaxation techniques are especially important this year as we navigate a global pandemic together. This Newsweek article explores more about self-care in the time of stay at home orders. Show your soulmate that you care about their feelings and emotions with this sweet gift.

#7. Food To Fuel The Heart

The way to any man (or woman’s) heart is through the stomach. Let’s face it, everyone loves to eat their favorite foods. If you’re shopping for a romantic gift with limited funds, you can make $30 go a long way with treats and desserts. Your treats can be store-bought, from a local bakery, or made with your own two hands. If you’re looking for a great gift to give each other, you could cook a meal together. Cooking and eating together strengthens our bonds and helps us make enjoyable memories together. When you’re totally out of ideas, you can always give chocolate, which is the ultimate sweet aphrodisiac.

What other fun gifts can you think of that say “I love you” without costing an arm and a leg? Romantic holidays don’t have to be expensive if you use a little imagination.