Valentine’s Day is about connection, not price tags. While it’s easy to feel pressure to splurge on fancy dinners, gifts, and last-minute reservations, the truth is that some of the most meaningful moments come from simplicity and thoughtfulness.

If you’re looking for ways to celebrate love and stick to your budget, here are a few Valentine’s Day date ideas that prove you don’t have to spend a lot to make the day special.

Bank Independent is pleased to announce the promotions of Anne Osborne and Hallie Mauldin, effective January 1, 2026. These leadership advancements reflect the Bank’s commitment to long-term strategy, thoughtful succession planning, and investment in its people.

Both Osborne and Mauldin represent the fourth generation of the Mauldin family to serve Bank Independent, continuing a legacy of leadership and community commitment.

What began as a response to tragedy has grown into a lasting commitment to hope.

Founded in 2011 following the devastating April 27 tornado outbreak, Bank Independent’s Helping Hands Program was created to meet urgent community needs in a moment of crisis. Today, it has evolved into the Helping Hands Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of our neighbors across the communities we serve.

Bank Independent announced the promotions of Selena Suggs and Teresa Turner, recognizing their leadership, expertise, and contributions to advancing the bank’s strategy and enhancing the customer experience.

Bank Independent’s annual Toy Share Drive once again delivered holiday cheer to children across North Alabama, collecting 2,924 toys and raising $2,763.99 in cash during the 2025 drive.

Spam filters are helpful—until they hide something you actually needed to see. Whether it’s an email from Bank Independent, a statement update, or a confirmation you’ve been waiting on, a misplaced message can create unnecessary frustration.

The good news? You can “whitelist” trusted senders so future emails go straight to your inbox. Below is a simple, step-by-step guide for the most common email providers used by our customers.

Bank Independent was recently named one of the Best Companies to Work for in Alabama for the sixth consecutive year. This annual program, now in its fourteenth year, was created by Business Alabama magazine and Best Companies Group to recognize employers that demonstrate excellence in workplace culture, employee satisfaction, and overall employee experience.

Bank Independent was proud to recognize two students from Athens State University as recipients of the 2025 Edward Fennel Mauldin Endowed Scholarship. The pair were honored at a reception hosted by Bank Independent and Athens State representatives.

Six University of North Alabama students were recognized by representatives from Bank Independent and UNA as the 2025 recipients of the Edward Fennel Mauldin Endowed Scholarship.

Bank Independent has been named one of the 2025 Best Banks to Work For. American Banker has partnered with Best Companies Group to identify banks that excel at creating positive and supportive workplaces for employees. This is the seventh consecutive year that Bank Independent has made the list. The survey and awards program is designed to identify and honor banks with the best cultures for helping employees thrive.