I’m so excited to share these quick and clever last-minute Valentine ideas. Most of us plan Valentine’s Day at the very last minute, so these drugstore hacks are perfect when you need something fast for coworkers, classmates, or your best friends. Everything shown can be put together using items from a drugstore, big-box retailer, or grocery store, and they’re easy, budget-friendly, and fun.
For supplies we used cardstock and stickers, plus some letter stickers from an office supply store, but you can just write your messages with a marker if you’re pressed for time. Keep it simple, playful, and personal—these little touches make inexpensive items feel special.
Fallon For You
Cut a celebrity photo from a magazine or print one and adhere it to cardstock with 3D foam adhesive for a playful pop-culture valentine.
You Go Glen Cocoa
Divide a box of hot cocoa packets among friends and attach one or two packets to each card using removable glue dots or washi tape for a cozy treat.
Got a Lot of Starbucks Lovers
Pair a Starbucks gift card with a playful lyric or pun on cardstock. Attach with foam adhesive or a strip of washi tape for a neat finish.
You’re the Balm
Attach a lip balm—Lip Smackers or any favorite brand—to a card with a cute note. It’s practical, nostalgic, and inexpensive.
You Don’t Want No Scrub
Attach a loofah or shower scrub to a card with twine, ribbon, or washi tape. It’s a funny, themed gift for friends who appreciate a good pun.
Now Watch Me Buff, Buff, Buff
Give a nail buffer with a cheeky caption and attach it using removable glue dots or a piece of twine so it’s easy to remove and use.
You’re My Peeps. #SQUAD
Repackage mini packs of marshmallow Peeps into small cellophane or zip-top bags and tape them to cardstock for a sweet, themed valentine.
You Nailed It
A small bottle of nail polish makes a cheerful valentine for coworkers or friends. Attach with a removable glue dot so the recipient can reuse the polish right away.
1-800-HOTLINEBLING
Candy phones or novelty toy phones are a silly, budget-friendly option—perfect for a Drake-themed pun. Secure with tape or glue dots.
Your Lip Gloss Is Poppin’
Attach a gloss or tinted balm to a card with a short, upbeat message. It’s a flattering, useful little gift.
Never Give Up
Use a playful image of an inspiring celebrity and pair it with an encouraging message. Cut the photo from a magazine or print one, then glue it onto your cardstock.
When I Dip, You Dip, We Dip!
Fun Dip or similar candy makes a nostalgic and inexpensive valentine. Attach the candy packet to your card with tape or glue dots.
I’d S(Wipe) Right
A travel pack of facial or makeup wipes is a thoughtful little gift. Secure with washi tape or twine and include a short, clever note.
You Shine Bright Like a Diamond
Ring pops are an instant nostalgic win. Repackage them in cellophane or attach as-is to the card for a sparkly, playful valentine.
Rollin’ With The Homies
Divide a pack of hair rollers into small bundles and secure each bundle with tape. Attach to cards for a silly, themed valentine that will make your friends laugh.
Which is your favorite? There are so many quick combos you can create with a little cardstock, a marker, and items from a nearby store. These ideas are meant to inspire—mix and match puns and treats to suit your group. If you make a drugstore hack Valentine, share your creation on social media with your own tag so friends can see and remix the idea.
p.s. Don’t forget classic printable ideas like “Fries Before Guys” if you want more quick, free options to pair with small treats.