According to WalletHub, shoppers shell out more than $19 billion in Cupid’s name each year. That makes Valentine’s Day the third-largest consumer holiday in the U.S. But love might not be the only motivator. Roughly 45% of people expect their Valentine to spend at least $50 on a gift, according to WalletHub’s 2018 Valentine’s Day Survey.
If you are one of the 90 percent that will be purchasing a gift or planning an event for your significant other, then we have a few ideas that won’t put a deep dent in your wallet.
1. Roller Skating
Brentwood Skate Center was named one of the top ten places in the U.S. to skate. For some of you, this will be a throwback to your youth where you spent many a Friday night skating or playing video games at your local roller rink. See the complete schedule here.
2. Paint PotteryÂ
Third Coast Clay is an independently owned pottery painting studio located in The Factory. Spend an evening painting a mug or plate or select among the 500 options they have available. It’s the perfect way to commemorate the special evening. Each time you use your new pottery you’ll think back to that time. The studio is open weekly until 7 p and on weekends until 9 p. See more information here.Â
3. Ride a Bike
Grab your bike and visit one of the many parks throughout Williamson County for a bike ride. Use the Franklin Greenway along the Harpeth for a scenic route. If you don’t own a bike, Pedego Franklin offers bike rental by the hour starting at $14 or you can rent one for a day. Pedego also offers tours of downtown Franklin, or try the romantic adventure where you rent two bikes with a picnic lunch. Visit Pedego Franklin for more information.
4. Visit Rippavilla Plantation
Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Rippavilla Plantation is a must-see for everyone – tourists, Civil War history buffs, students and Tennessee residents alike. Hear the story of the property owner, Nathaniel F. Cheairs IV, and his wife, Susan. Plus, learn about the home’s construction in the 1850s and its full restoration over the years. Guided tours are available daily from 9:30 a – 4:30 p and Sunday 1 p – 4:30 p. Visit the Rippavilla Plantation website for more information.
5. Tour the Leiper’s Fork Distillery
Leiper’s Fork Distillery is partnering with the community to bring back the history and heritage of small-batch whiskey production to Williamson County. With an admission price of $10 you can take a 45-minute up-close look behind the scenes and end with a tasting. For more information, visit the Leiper’s Fork Distillery website.
6. Couples Cooking Class at Sur La Table
Instead of dinner out, try something new with a date night cooking class. The class is limited to 16 people, and you learn a new recipe as well as cooking technique. After your hard work, you get to enjoy the meal! There are several classes to choose from Surf & Turf, Â From Paris with Love featuring roasted chicken with a dessert of creme brulee, and Cooking with Wine where you learn to incorporate wine into a four-course meal. See the complete schedule here.Â
7. Dine and Bowl at Kings Dining and EntertainmentÂ
Kings Dining and Entertainment is a place where you can grab a bite to eat from their new menu. We highly recommend you try the tuna Philly tuna bites and finish your meal with the chocolate fondue. After dinner, have a friendly competition on the bowling lanes or check out the entertainment in the Whiskey Room. Find more information here.Â
8. Send Your Sweetie a Cuddle GramÂ
Send your sweetheart, co-workers or friend a puppy or kitten Cuddle Gram on Valentine’s Day, Thursday, February 14. Williamson County Animal Center will deliver kitten cuddles or puppy breath to any workplace in Franklin or Brentwood. For a donation of $100, your loved one gets 15 minutes of cuddles from one of our shelter pets (kitten or puppy). For $125, they get not only the cuddles, but one pet adoption at WCAC will be sponsored in their name. A Valentines rose and candy is included.
Sign-ups begin January 28 at 615-790-5590 or in person at the shelter, 106 Claude Yates Dr. in Franklin. Space is limited.
