Most couples I talk to who have been in a significant relationship for awhile aren’t really fussy about Valentine’s Day. They usually opt for simple plans like staying in for dinner and enjoying a bottle of wine together. So how much are you planning to spend on Valentine’s Day?
Researchers surveyed 1,000 participants about Valentine’s Day spending and found some interesting results:
How much should someone spend on Valentine’s Day for his/her partner?
-The amount ranged from $26 to $159. The overall average for Valentine’s Day gift(s) is around $134.
Who should spend more, men or women?
-Participants were pretty close in response to this one. Women suggested a range of $21 to $153 while men suggested a range of $30 to $165.
If you think you’ll be having sex, will you spend more?
-When people are expecting sex, spending increases significantly. The biggest spenders being men expecting to get some.
Does the amount you spend say something about your relationship?
-Participants who reported being in love were willing to spend $40 less on their gifts than those who were not in love.
-Those who are in long-term relationships may not see Valentine’s Day as a big deal and will therefore spend less. These couples are also likely to spend more throughout the year on anniversaries or their partner’s birthday.
-Newly dating couples may have more to prove to their partner and likely to go with grand gestures and more expensive gifts to win them over.
Amy Yew is a registered clinical counselor and relationship therapist. She is also the author of a fashion and lifestyle blog Style Du Jour. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to amyvancouvercourier@gmail.com.
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