by Lori Buttermark

Created on: February 08, 2010   Last Updated: April 09, 2010

Cupid is on a mission for one day only. Walking passed the store windows, the huge red heart displays all but scream Valentine’s Day.

While tradition is safe, creativity and unique are the true crowd pleasers, provided they are done in good taste and with style.   

The “dating” cycle suggests “Proceed with Caution” – you are learning his/her likes and dislikes while finding a common ground; hence, tradition dictates candy and the small red stuffed animal OR, let your creative/unique skills kick in with the novelty small red pillow and its lettering “Hi Valentine” – add a heart-shaped keychain and, the final touch, a scented candle in fruit, espresso or dozens of other delicious fragrances. These gifts make great first impressions and will be remembered for years to come.

 Long-term relationships suggest “All Lanes Open”. The comfort zone ensues; hence, possibilities are endless.

For Him

A digital camera equipped with all the bells and whistles or, that wristwatch he’s been eyeing, but waiting to purchase. 

For Her

Is jewelry her fetish? Give her the gift she only “dreams” of owning.   

Gift Certificates are always in vogue: A day at the Spa, Victoria’s Secret, Macys, or Barnes & Noble for her current school project or hobby.

Valentine’s evening finds you both cuddling on the couch, feeding each other strawberries dipped in chocolate sauce. 

The “Married” suggests “Merging Traffic”: You’ve traveled the marital highway for many years, yet does your “significant other” enjoy the path to surprise (creative, unique) or prefer the traditional protocol?

Take her out for a special dinner and dancing at the restaurant commemorating your first date. During dessert, “wow” her with the Journey Necklace, begin adding a diamond for every year of marital bliss.

He is your power tower, yet special occasions bring out the little boy in him. A gift card or cash tucked in the pocket of a new sports shirt will send him strolling through his favorite stores.

Your kids are grown with families of their own; hence, some quality time with your mate suggests a Bed ‘n’ Breakfast Red Letter weekend getaway. This temporary “life of leisure” translates into a different concept. You’ve arranged in advance to have a small heart-shaped chocolate mint be placed on each bedroom pillow and breakfast to be served as “Room Service Deluxe”, rather than the main dining room. After breakfast, a horse-drawn carriage for two awaits you in front of the B ‘n’B for your sight-seeing tour.

Valentine’s Day comes from the heart. Your date or mate will appreciate the time and effort spent to make it as special as they are. 

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