When your honey hands you a gift this Feb. 14, beware: it may be a little skimpier. Couples plan to spend about 4 bucks less on their significant other this Valentine’s Day than last year, says a survey by the National Retail Federation. The average expenditure will be $63.34, down from $67.22 last year.
Maybe some of that money is going toward your furry friend. The same survey shows that pet owners will spend $3.27 on a Valentine trinket for Fluffy or Fido, up 50 percent over last year. (I’m missing something here. My cat is expecting a gift? She can read a calendar?)
But returning to humans... If you’re heading to a restaurant, make your reservations now. Eateries are expected to be full, since Valentine’s Day falls on a weekend (it’s this Sunday), and the following day is a holiday (Presidents’ Day).
To find a top-rated restaurant for any budget, check out this recent Consumer Reports survey. And for the inside scoop on how menus get you to spend more, click here and here.
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