If you have not had the experience of walking into a grocery or drug store since Christmas, then how could you possibly know what holiday is right around the corner? Well, I am here to tell you that it is, indeed, Valentine's Day. The day where your parents go out for a fancy dinner, your significant other attempts to spoil you with something heart-shaped, or your little sibling has to tirelessly fill out generic cards that say "to" and "from" and may or may not include stickers or temporary tattoos for their classmates.

It may sound as though I am just another one of those people who have a strong hatred toward this money-making scheme we call a holiday. In reality, Valentine's Day holds a special place in my heart. Even for those of us who are not fortunate enough to have a significant other, February 14th proves as a day for everyone to show how much we appreciate each other. It is more than just being in love with that one special person.

This year as everyone scrambles to plan the perfect date, take a second to consider some alternatives that could also potentially save a few bucks (especially for you broke college kids). Or, if you aren't trying to plan a date and you are just looking for something for you and a bunch of your single friends to do instead of mope around, mix up your normal Valentine's day routine and enjoy yourself with these few ideas.

Instead of a hallmark card you can just pick up at any Rite Aid or CVS, be a little nostalgic. As kids, it was almost a competition who could buy the coolest Valentine's Day cards for your classmates. Buy a pack and fill out a bunch for anyone who you value as a friend, significant other, sibling, parent, or even the person working the drive-thru window at Dunkin' Donuts. If your budget is a little tighter than normal this year, make homemade cards. This way you can be as creative, original, and heart-felt as you want and show someone that you wanted to personalize and show your feelings in a unique and special way.

Want to go for a fancy dinner, but don't want to put up with the hassles of calling for reservations or waiting in absurdly long lines for a table in an overcrowded restaurant? Get take out or stay in and try to recreate a dish you would have ordered at one of those restaurants. This gives you more time to have a personalized interaction with your gal pals or significant other without breaking the bank.

There is always that one blockbuster that comes out just in time for Valentine's day. People rush to theaters to see this movie, but why aggravate yourselves over a movie that you may not even like and could have seen in the comfort of your own home on DVD? Get a karaoke night or a game night going. Mix things up for a change and don't be so stereotypical!

Hopefully you take some of these ideas into account while planning your special evening. You can hit all of the key portions of Valentine's day while being spontaneous and original at the same time. Whether you have the honor of spending February 14th with your significant other or a group of your best friends, make the day your own. This day should not be a big hassle or stressful beyond belief. Relax and enjoy the day as it is, not as the chocolate and flower industry tells you it should be.