This Valentine’s Day, let your partner know how special they are to you without breaking the bank. If the goal is to keep your budget as well as your sanity intact, you’re in luck. Here are five creative and original gift ideas under $20 that are sure to please.

Custom Music CD $15
Let your partner know just how special they are to you by putting together a custom made CD. Include 10 to 15 songs that have special meaning or significance to the two of you. You could also just put together a mix of songs that you know your mate would love to hear. With millions of songs in their databases and at only $0.99 per song, you could really go to town with this project. Check out either of these websites to get started: www.itunes.com www.aol.musicnow.com

Chocolate Covered Strawberries $5
Instead of spending $50 on a box of fancy truffles, why not try and make your own? Even the most culinary challenged person could master this simple task. First, head to the supermarket and pick up a bag of chocolate chips and a pint of strawberries. Wash and dry the berries while being careful to leave the stems intact. Set the berries aside and microwave the chips on high for 30 seconds to a minute. Remove the chips from the microwave and gently stir. Hold the strawberry by the stem and dip it right into the melted chocolate. Place the dipped berries onto a wax paper lined cookie sheet and refrigerate for a few hours. Remove the cooled berries, arrange on a plate, and you’re all set to go. Your date will definitely be impressed!

Magazine Subscription $15
Treat your valentine to a one or two year subscription to their favorite type of magazine. Whether they’re into sports, fashion, or current events, there is sure to be a magazine out there custom tailored to their interests. Not only will they appreciate your thoughtfulness, but you’re sure to be on their mind every month when the newest issue arrives.

Custom Designed T-shirt $15
Tap into your creativity gene and design a personalized t-shirt for that special someone in your life. Include a funny nickname or one of their favorite sayings. You could even try out a funny or inspirational quote. The sky is definitely the limit on what you can put on the shirt, so be creative and use your imagination. Check out these user friendly websites for more information: www.zazzle.com www.acustomtshirt4u.com

Nostalgic Candy Bars $15
Forget the boring and traditional route of buying your sweetie a box of assorted chocolates. There just isn’t any novelty in that anymore. Try and think outside “the box” and get a little bit nostalgic. Put together some fun chocolate classics in a little basket. Think about including Zagnut bars, Bit-o-Honeys, Sky bars, Abba-Zabbas, Nut Goodies, and maybe even a Wonka bar. You could include two of each and you’d still come in under budget. Check out these sweet websites for more info: www.carolscandycorner.com www.candydirect.com www.groovycandies.com

Jeff Cohen - About.com Dating Guide  From meeting someone new to getting serious, breaking up, or engagements, you'll find it all from your About.com Guide to Dating, Jeff Cohen. Jeff is also the author of the "30 Minute Guide to Online Dating" eBook.