Want to really get your loved one’s heart racing this February 14? Skip the red roses, chocolates and teddy bears for the ultimate gift: making memories together.

Studies show most of us prefer spending time with a partner rather than receiving presents. The reason why? When we form these emotional connections with our spouses, we release hormones that lower stress and make us feel safe.

“When couples make an effort to plan quality time together, it can make the other person feel loved and appreciated,” says Dr. Houyuan Luo, psychologist and founder of MindPeace Psychology Toronto, noting this is key for long-lasting love.

Even the smallest amount of quality time we share together builds relationship bonds, he adds. “Quality time doesn’t have to be lengthy; it can range from 30 minutes to entire days.”

The good news? The gift of quality time fits every budget – all you have to do is get a little creative and think outside the (chocolate) box.

The best experiences for under $20

Give the gift of OLG Scratch Tickets. Whether it’s favourites like BINGO or CROSSWORD, or timely must-haves such as LUNAR 8 and BIG MONEY, OLG INSTANT tickets are the gifts that keep on giving. There’s the excitement of scratching the ticket – talk about getting your pulses racing together! – and the fun of watching the result emerge in real time. Then what if the ticket is a winner? It could open the door to even more incredible experiences together.

Recreate your past dates as a treasure hunt. This one requires a bit of planning, but you’ll score big points with your significant other if you can pull it off. Choose four or five spots in your neighbourhood that hold special significance to you as a couple, then write sweet, simple clues that hint at each location. Share the first clue and watch your partner puzzle their way to the destination. Once you get there, reveal the next clue. Plan to end at your favourite coffee shop: Bonus points if you get the barista to put a heart or your partner’s initials in their cortado.

Attempt a romantic painting session. You don’t need to be Georgia O’Keefe to try this easy Valentine’s Day date night plan. Simply invest in some paints and a canvas, set up your stations across the table from each other and get to work painting each others’ portraits. The results will either be deeply moving or deeply hilarious – either way, you’ll have something to keep forever.

The best experiences for under $200

Book a Valentine’s Day pedicure. Pedicures are an affordable indulgence that any couple can enjoy. Book side-by-side chairs so you can spend some quality time together while your feet are soaking. The only rule for this date? No phones! Experts say quality time is best when there are zero distractions.

Surprise them with tickets to a show. Is there anything that says “I love you” more than buying tickets to see your loved one’s favourite band? You could also check out a candlelight concert or movie screening backed by a live orchestra. Throw in matching concert tees and you’re definitely going to get a standing ovation from your spouse.

Go back to the classroom. Learning something together – whether it’s a cocktail-making class for your Negroni-loving partner or taking a comedy class with your beau – can make you feel even more connected. “Collaborating on tasks creates shared experiences that enhance closeness and intimacy in relationships,” says Dr. Luo.

The best experiences for when the sky’s the limit

Head south for a long weekend. This could be the polar vortex talking, but if budget isn’t an issue, four days in the Caribbean wins big-time romance points on Valentine’s Day. Sunny vacations are an instant mood booster, but even planning a trip together can make you feel closer, says Dr. Luo. “Even when quality time hasn’t occurred yet, anticipating it can help couples feel soothed and connected.”

Schedule a spa day. With a host of new options across Ontario – think: Finnish-inspired saunas, luxurious sound baths, wine plunges and Scandinave spas – it’s easier than ever to plan a relaxing date for two. Even better? Many spas allow you to spend the whole day relaxing even if you've only booked one treatment, so you can keep the quality time going.

Go star-gazing in luxury. In Canada, you’ll find various year-round glamping spots that offer everything from snowy horseback riding to dinner with a personal chef. Take your loved one for a night or two and show them the star in the sky you registered and named, just for them.