Let’s face it, whether you believe that it’s a day for consumers or a chance to express love to your significant other, escaping Valentine’s Day is an impossible task.

The most popular theory about the origins of this inescapable occasion is that of Emperor Claudius II who didn’t want Roman men to marry during wartime.

And so the story goes that Bishop Valentine, the Catholic patron saint of love, went against his wishes and performed secret weddings. For this act of love, Valentine was imprisoned and executed.

It’s safe to say this traditional view is losing its relevance. With the rise of mobile technology, we have seen the slow demise of romantic grand gestures give way to the rise of digital fairy tales commonly known as Tinderella.

This time of the year, we are bombarded with all sorts of commercial pressure to go out and spend a fortune to show the true merit of our love. According to a survey conducted by chillisauce and marketresearchworld, Brits are expected to splash a whopping £622 million this Valentine’s Day – a significant increase to the £595 million spent in 2014.

When cupid fires his arrows, the heart is the intended target, but it’s evident many of us hit the bank instead. Here at AAT we are adamant that Valentine’s Day needn’t be a currency splurge.

And true to our word we have compiled our top five favourite ways to pull off that special day romantically and creatively.

1) Ride a Ferris wheel

A classic ride dating back to the beginning of funfairs, the Ferris wheel is the ultimate in old-school cool for thrill seekers and romantics alike. Crucially, this is where the Notebook’s Noah falls in love with Ally – now if that’s not romantic then we don’t know what is.

2) Write a poem

We concede, on the outlook this suggestion cries out cliché comparable to the likes of a bouquet full of red roses but let’s not be hasty. Remember, this is a sure way to give your partner something unique and your labours will not go unnoticed. The main cost involved here is effort. And the rewards? We’ll let you get creative with this one.

3) Rent a bike

Many cities offer cheap and easy bikes for you to rent. So why not be spontaneous and ride out to the country for a scenic afternoon followed by a romantic lunch. This idea screams adventure and inexpensiveness. Win, win!

4) Venture out into the waters

Renting out a canoe or paddleboard at your local park certainly guarantees romance especially when coupled with a jam-packed picnic basket.

5) Go back in time

If originality is on the agenda then why not take a walk down memory lane. Go back and visit some of the special places from your early days of dating followed by a home-cooked meal. Avoid the unnecessary costs and restaurant rush with a Valentines dinner for two.

AAT Comment offers news and opinion on the world of business and finance from the Association of Accounting Technicians.