Consumers spending less on Valentine's Day, but not Locally

SOUTH BEND ‒ The National Retail Federation say couples will likely spend about $63 on each other this Valentine's Day as people curb their spending. Despite those low expectations, local people are still feeling the love. Roses and champagne are staples of a traditional Valentine’s Day, and Paula Dauss hopes love is in the air this year "Come in and buy flowers. We have chocolates and bears and balloons and a little bit of everything," says Dauss. Dauss has owned the English Cottage Floral Shop in South Bend for nearly a decade. But times have been tough, the economy has taken its toll ‒ and now that Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center has moved away, business has been slow. But thanks to Valentine’s Day, things are looking up. "They are starting to come now, the orders, we just don't know as to how much," says Dauss. And even though business is better nationally, people are spending less this Valentine’s Day. On average, couples will spend 6 percent less, cutting out expensive options like jewelry and eating out. LaSalle Grill hasn't noticed a difference, however. "This I project to be about 25 to 30 percent greater than in the last three or four years," says Mark McDonnell, the owner of LaSalle Grill. Chefs are planning to cook up meals for a full house the entire weekend. The fine dining restaurant is normally closed on Sundays, but decided to open the doors for the special holiday. So far, reservations are coming in full force. "I think there is a lot of pent up demand. People want to get out regardless of the economy," says McDonnell. And for local businesses, that is Valentines Day they are hoping for. The study by the National Retail Federation found that shoppers are more likely to buy more personal and practical gifts this Valentine’s Day. But traditional gifts like flowers, cards and chocolates are expected to still be a popular gift choice.