Feb. 14, also known as Valentine’s Day, can look different for everyone. A day that was originally celebrated as a pagan festival in Rome, and then in order to Christianize the day, St. Valentine declared the day in the middle of February as a Festival of Fertility. Which has now evolved into a day of love. Oh, and sometimes there are gifts.
As a college student, it might not fit in the budget to buy an expensive, showy gift. Here is a Top 10 list of gifts to buy for a significant other, friend, or even yourself, all for under $30.
1. Box of chocolates
Let’s start out by keeping it simple. One of life’s simplest pleasures is chocolate. Not only does it taste amazing there are also properties in this treat that can release dopamine, a compound that can help you feel satisfaction and motivation. You can get a simple box of chocolates at any store, such as Target, Walmart, or CVS for as low as $2.98.
In order to elevate your chocolate game, another option is a heart-shaped box of M&M’s that can be personalized for $25.99.
2. Bouquet of flowers
Another simple, yet beautiful idea is a bouquet of flowers or a flower arrangement. Red roses are the symbol of love, as are carnations and tulips. Acme sells a bouquet of 12 roses for $10.99, or you can venture out to a local flower shop. Whichever one is chosen; flowers are always a tried-and-true gift that everyone will love.
3. Personalized song plaque
These personalized song plaques have been going viral on TikTok and Instagram. Add a picture of whoever or whatever, pick a favorite song, and customized the text. The plaque also comes with a display stand, or a keychain. There are many different places to buy this item, but this one on Etsy for $17.99 is a great option.
4. Memory film keychain
Film cameras are back in style, with younger generations becoming obsessed with this throwback way of taking pictures. A unique gift for a lover of vintage style or a photography enthusiast is a customized film strip of negatives featuring your own photos. MyCameraRollKeychain is currently having a sale, with keychains retailing at $15.95.
5. Initial necklace
When Taylor Swift sang “I want to wear his initials/ On a chain round my neck,” in “Call It What You Want” she had everyone in a chokehold. Whether wearing a significant other initial, or even your own initial, these necklaces are timeless pieces that can be cherished for a lifetime. Etsyshop JewelVers sells a darling necklace that can be finished in either silver or gold, costing $11.70.
6. Candles
Candles are the universal gift. There are so many different options and scents to choose from that can transport you into a different state of mind. Remember, Cabrini University does not allow candles to be burned in dorms, but if living off campus or when home, lighting up a Homesick candle changes the room. They have so many options and are currently on sale for $28.50.
7. Cozy blanket
Cozying up on Valentine’s Day with a loved one, with friends, or alone definitely calls for a blanket. Whether watching movies, or going outside to watch the stars, blankets are a must-have. This one from Target is currently on sale for $22.99 and is adorned in a cute heart pattern. There are also other many different designs to choose from.
8. Squishmallow
For the last 2 years Squishmallow’s have taken over the world. These plushies are perfect for people of all ages and are great companions. There are hundreds of different squishmallows available, but this axolotl from Walmart is adorable. This squishy friend can go for as low as $10.97.
9. Heart slippers
Who doesn’t love a pair of slippers. They are essential for college students, roaming the dorms or even just walking around their rooms. These pink ones with hearts are available at Target for $20.00.
10. Perfume or cologne
Choosing someone else’s fragrance can be hard, but it also is a thoughtful and useful gift. Here are two suggestions that seem to be loved by all.
The brand Sol De Janeiro has taken over TikTok, and it seems that everyone is wearing it these days. Their scent Brazilian Crush Cheirosa 68 Beija Flor is a personal favorite, but scent 62 is also very popular. A 90ML bottle of this perfume mist usually sells for $24.00.
Cremo is known for making body wash for men but also offers a variety of products. Their Spice & Black Vanilla spray cologne is popular on their site and currently retails for $22.99.
