Looking for that special gift to pay homage to your honey? Here are five ideas to cut costs, and create a memorable gift that can’t be fully store bought. 

Bring a Restaurant Home: If you want to avoid the crowds lingering at restaurants on Feb. 14—and create an unique experience—put together your own menu that offers a few selections for appetizers, dinners and deserts. You can even bring it to a local Kinko’s to laminate it or print on special paper. Stumped for ideas of what to cook? Look for specialized classes in your area, such as those at Whole Foods in Capitola.

Proclaim Your Love in Icing: A talented baker can put just about anything on a cake. In Watsonville, order a photo cake from Freedom Bakery or pick up some Valentine's Day cookies at Second Street Cafe—they look so sweet!

Create a Card: Making cut out Valentine’s cards isn’t just reserved for kids. Here are some examples of homemade cards that are easy to assemble and likely more memorable the store bought variant. Look out for craft stores in your area, such as Beverly’s Fabrics and Crafts in Soquel.

Give the Gift of Experience: Want an excuse to take a vacation, be it an overnight in San Francisco or week escape to Europe? Many travel agencies, such as Adriatic Travel Agency in Watsonville, can help you out. Then craft a DIY coupon voucher, promising a trip in the coming year. 

Assembly a Photo Montage: Purchase a piece of poster board, and decorate it with photos (or print outs of photos) of you and your significant other. You can also create a border with the photos, and write a Valentine’s message inside. Print photos at Walgreens, Target or RiteAid. Check Patch Places, the business directory on Patch, for more help with photos.