View Feedback | Send this Article | Published 2/14/03

Graphic By: Jonelle Thackston

Flowers: Flowers are a simple traditional way of showing you care. Realistically, if youäre reading this now itäs too late to order from a florist. You might want to try a grocery store or Wal-Mart, but donät give the flowers in the cheap plastic in which they are sold. Buy an inexpensive vase to achieve the Üflorist� look. If your lady is traditional, buy roses. If sheäs more unique, try daisies. If sheäs totally her own person, try some bright lilies. Just remember to personalize the flowers somehow, whether it is with the type of flowers or simply braiding them with ribbons.

Chocolate and Candy: Candies and chocolates present a youthful approach to Valentineäs Day, but use good judgment when buying sweets. If your girlfriend is on a diet, then candy is not appropriate. If your boyfriend doesnät like caramel, then simply avoid caramel candies. Chocolate lovers will delight over a box; however a simple box of candy lacks creativity and heart.

An Evening Dinner: Almost everyone can enjoy a relaxing meal away from home. Remember that almost every restaurant will be packed with fellow love birds, so plan carefully. If you have plans following dinner, be aware that you may have a long wait before dinner and allow some time for flexibility. Small locally-owned restaurants will have shorter waits and may provide a more intimate atmosphere. Choose wisely when selecting what type of food to eat (there is nothing less romantic than an evening filled with post-burrito flatulence). Choose a restaurant where you will both enjoy the meal.

Gifts for Her: Girls are relatively easy to shop for. You can almost never go wrong with jewelry; everything from a 6 karat ring to bangle bracelets is sure to please. Girls also love teddy bears, perfumes, shower gels, lotions, unique socks, and so on. When you go to the store, just look for something that reminds you of her or something she has, that way you know sheäll love it.

Gifts for Him: Guys want to be loved and spoiled on Valentineäs Day also. You can shop traditionally for cologne, a watch or simple jewelry, or you can choose a more creative route. Take him out to dinner, pay for a health club membership, buy him a massage or better yet, offer him a personal massage. Valentineäs Day isnät meant to be a day where only girls receive goodies, so show your guy what he means to you.

Last but not Least: Even if youäre flat broke, totally out of shopping time, or simply donät have the means to pull something together, you can still let your special someone know how much you love them. You donät need to buy a card; just grab a pen and get creative. Sometimes non-traditional and unique gifts are the most memorable and appreciated. Valentineäs Day is about showering the one you love with undivided attention and love. When itäs all said and done, gifts or no gifts, just express your feelings to that certain someone.