Valentine's Day is the annual celebration of love. And it seems to sneak up out of nowhere. If you've forgotten to get the love of your life a thoughtful card, don't panic. You can send a free electronic card through the power of the internet. It doesn't get more romantic than that.

We'll run through a variety of different sites that offer clever, funny or cheesy e-cards for the cost of nothing. Maybe it's for a new love, a long-term partner, or just a friend you want to show appreciation to.

1. Just Wink

Just Wink offers a range of modern card designs across a range of categories---it has a specific selection of LGBTQ cards, for example, or for those people who are anti-valentines.

The designs take the shape of virtual cards. You can customize the insides of them: add a photo, a message (along with the font and color), and your signature. Your receiver can then click and drag to open them up.

Many of the cards are free to send, though you will need to register for an account. Some cards are locked to purchase through the iOS or Android app, but you should be able to find something suitable within the free range.

2. Got Free Cards

Got Free Cards does what it says on the tin. They have over fifty animated cartoon videos for you to choose from and deliver to your Valentine, featuring things like cute animal scenes or general heart imagery.

The videos are short, sweet and they make a nice change from a static card. Not only are they fully animated, but they're also accompanied by fun sound and music. Or why not try streaming some great love songs in person?

You can add a personalized message beneath the video. They can then be sent directly via email or it can generate a link for you to send via messaging apps or social media.

3. 123Greetings

There are hundreds of cards for you to choose from on 123Greetings. Certainly many more than 123! Forgive the slightly old-school site design, because the range makes up for it.

Whether you want to express love or friendship, say "I love you" or "I miss you", or provide some cheeky humor, you'll be covered here. The animated videos are charming and sure to put a smile on your valentine's face.

You can even customize the music on the videos, plus you can add a personalized message to appear alongside. It even lets you send a card to up to 100 people if you're a very loving sort.

4. 123cards

123cards is another website with a number in its title, though this time it doesn't have that many. Nevertheless, it has a great selection of e-cards to choose from, like singing frogs or falling roses.

The card will open up from an animated envelope and then play to your recipient, complete with sound. Be sure to type a message alongside so your sentiment is known.

Before you send your card, note that by default the form will preselect to starting a free premium trial. Obviously, it can't do this without your payment information. Change it to "No thanks, send as a Basic card with ads" to use it for the price of nothing.

5. Punchbowl

Punchbowl isn't explicitly about cards, but rather invitations. They're themed to look like ones you'd get in the mail, with funky envelopes and differently designed invites inside.

Perhaps you want to invite your valentine out for a meal or on a day trip. Whatever your plan, you can express it with Cupid, cake, cats, and more. There are many free choices, but note those marked as "plus" cost money.

While creating the invite, set a date, time and other location details. Then your valentine can RSVP and let you know whether they're on for the romantic shindig.

6. Kisseo

What's a better website name for Valentine's Day than Kisseo? If you do want a smooch, or only want to express your appreciation, Kisseo has a variety of modern videos for you to choose from.

Unlike some e-card websites, which we haven't listed here, Kisseo doesn't use the outdated Flash technology. As such, all of its cards are mobile friendly.

Simply choose which video you want to send and then distribute it via email or through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp. You could even play a sweet Valentine's Day game via text messages too.

Keep the Romance Flowing

Hopefully, you have been able to find the perfect electronic Valentine's Day card from the broad selection on offer.

But now that you've got the card sorted, what are you going to do for the present? Don't fear. Check out our round-up of the best Valentine's day apps for a romantic date night. You don't necessarily need to buy anything to have a great day!