We’re just two weeks away from Valentine’s Day, so if you’re planning on ordering anything online . . . you should probably get on that.

According to an annual survey by the National Retail Federation, the average person in Shreveport and the ArkLaTex expects to spend around $190 on Valentine’s Day!

That’s up from an average of $175 last year . . . but down from $196 in 2020. 

Most people are planning to spend the same on significant others and family members as last year . . . roughly $130.  Or two-thirds of the $193.

The increase this year is in the non-Valentine category:  Gifts for pets . . . friends . . . coworkers . . . classmates . . . and teachers.

People ages 35 to 44 plan to spend the most . . . $336!! They’re followed by people ages 25 to 34, who plan to spend $238.  Since those are well above the average, those ages 45 and older plan to spend a lot less.

So what are people buying?  57% will pick up candy, and 40% will purchase greeting cards.  Others will shell out for more expensive stuff like:  Flowers . . . an evening out . . . an “experience” . . . jewelry . . . gift cards . . . and clothing.

Of course, not everyone celebrates Valentine’s Day.

Among the people who don’t, 28% will still mark the day in some way, with some non-Valentine’s gifts . . . treating themselves to something special . . . or planning a get-together with single friends and family members.