Valentine's Day flowers do not have to be pricey

There might be cheaper ways to declare your love on Valentine's Day than by saying it with flowers, but that doesn't mean having to forgo a bouquet. Just put more thought into the presentation.

Sometimes less is more, such as attaching a caring note to a single long-stemmed rose rather than ordering a pricey dozen. Or mix a few stellar roses with a big selection of lower-priced blooms to make a statement.

Sprinkling a layer of rose petals on pillows or floating them on a candlelit bubble bath has been known to warm a Valentine's heart. Be creative about showcasing whatever you can afford.

"Flowers are a luxury, a discretionary purchase, but they're an affordable luxury," said Jennifer Sparks, vice president of marketing for the Society of American Florists in Alexandria, Va. "A lot of people may be going away for the (Valentine's) weekend, but with the economy the way it is, many more will be staying home and having dinner in. Flowers accent that and create a little romance at the same time."

Here are some ways to prune your Valentine's Day floral costs even further:

► Shopping ahead of time next year can earn you some incentives. "There's a better chance you can get free delivery, better selection or an early-bird discount," Sparks said. "It certainly should guarantee they'll arrive on time since Valentine's Day this year falls on a Sunday when there's no mail or express delivery."

► Buy a small but extravagant assortment of lesser-known cut flowers. "Red roses are probably the most popular gift, but there are so many other options and price ranges," Sparks said. "Carnations and tulips are great alternatives. There also are

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