Valentine’s Day deals for 2021

What should you expect from Valentine’s Day sales for 2021? The sales have already started, so shop early.

Shopping early means you’ll not only have a better selection, but you’ll also save on shipping. This is especially true when it comes to floral arrangements, as those prices will spike January 31 to February 1. And they’ll only get more expensive as the holiday approaches.

Here are the best deals on Valentine’s Day gifts, according to DealNews.

Jewelry

Look for deals at Target and Kohl’s first because they’ve had good sales in the past. Also check Macy’s, Kate Spade, Amazon, eBay, and Szul.

Flowers

If you shop early, you can lock in low prices and schedule your delivery closer to the holiday. Avoid roses if you can. They’re the premium flower for Valentine’s Day and prices reflect that. Opt for rose-free floral arrangements to save money.

Keep an eye out for Wayfair's sale on Valentine’s Day florals and wreaths. Last year, the retailer took up to 70 percent off and included artificial arrangements, which are cheaper and will last longer.

Chocolate

Compare prices at the end of January and the beginning of February to find a decent price and varied selection.

Look for items such as frosted cookie multipacks from $20 at Cheryl’s, but also keep an eye out for deals at stores such as Target, Amazon, and Godiva, as well as Kate Spade and Macy’s.

For Godiva, you’ll need to check its website frequently. Last year, deals ranged from 20 percent to 40 percent off with free shipping ranging from $15 to $60.

Dining

Most restaurants are offering takeout options these days for pick up or you may be able to have dinner delivered. Watch for offers such as “buy one, get one half off” or even “buy one, get one free.”

Personalized presents

You can create custom photo books and prints at sites such as Shutterfly and Snapfish. They tend to offer discounts in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day, sometimes as high as 55 percent.

I’ve made photo books through Walgreen’s for the holidays, and it often offers 45 percent off deals. Some of my friends make photo books through the Costco website and have reported good results.

You also may be able to find free photo offers. Last year, Walgreens offered an 8x10 print for free if you picked it up at a local store; otherwise, shipping was $1.99.

If you can’t find Valentine's Day discounts on items, compare prices. Gifts with your photos including coffee cups, calendars, posters, collages, banners, and stationery aren’t that expensive. You will need to plan ahead, though, to get them on time.

Other gifts

Check the price of electronics. You won’t find the best deals of the year now, but you could find something worthwhile.

I’ll be checking the price of an iPhone 12. At Christmastime, they were $700. Now, they’ve gone back up to $800. One salesman suggested trying around Valentine’s Day, so maybe I’ll find a lower price.

If you can’t find any deals at the Valentine’s Day sales, Presidents’ Day sales may be better. There will be bargains on clothing, bedding, furniture, and home decor.

Maybe a coupon for a new sofa would be a good gift Valentine’s Day gift for a practical-minded partner.