Once, for my birthday, my boyfriend took me to the mall and surprised me with my present: to pick out the necklace of my choice at a jewelry store. It was a sweet idea, but was lacking in the romance department - especially since I wasn't into wearing necklaces to begin with. In contrast, one of the best birthday gifts I received was a few years ago when, Brian went to Charlotte Russe and picked out two pairs of shoes for me...on.his.own. They could have been Norwegian clogs and I wouldn't have cared. I was happily floored. (And by the way, they were perfect. He has since picked out the most comfortable pair of sandals that I own, of which I later went out and bought 3 more pairs in different colors.)
If you're a guy, you probably think that Valentine's Day is just a commercialized sham. That's okay. What's not okay is for you to make it lame one for your lady love. Or any other special occasion, for that matter. Which is not to say that some of you don't get it right...a select few of you have deciphered "the code."
For the rest of you, here's some ideas to demystify and de-lamefy the annual L<3VE test.
Leave the Type A woman out of it. When she asks about plans or where you're going to dinner on Saturday night at exactly 6:45, tell her that you're taking care of things this year and let her sweat bullets for the next three weeks. (P.S. - Actually having a plan is must.)
Think about what kind of woman you have, and what "language" she speaks. If she loves going out, plan an evening at a nice restaurant you've never tried or even a little weekend getaway. If she needs a break for some "me" time, give her a day at the spa...or, for even more points, go get a pedicure with her. (Note: This will not turn you gay.) If she prefers the simple things, attach a sweet, handwritten note (or post-it, as the case may be) to a small gift and leave it for her to find. If she likes fashion, you can rarely go wrong with jewelry, purses, or shoes. Let her current inventory be your guide.
Flowers. Whether you buy them or not is up to you. If you do, please do not pick out a bouquet that looks appropriate for a funeral or hospital visit. And please don't ask "Barbara the florist" to recommend something (no offence to Barbara). Simple is always better. Baby roses, tulips, tiger lillies, whatever is her favorite. Organic Bouquet's "Crown Majesty" roses are beautiful. If you're going for sap, create a bouquet of different flowers that begin with the letters of her name.
Dinner. For romance, make a reservation at Norman's at the Ritz, California Grill, K Restaurant, Timpano Chophouse, Hillstone, or Ceviche. Check out nearby hotel restaurant reviews; they're often very good and more intimate. I liked Bistro 1501 in the Lake Mary Marriott. The Nutella gelato at Ravalia's Pasta Bar is Valentine's Day in your mouth.
Date. Check out Canvas and Cheers at the Altamonte Mall, an art gallery with step-by-step guidance on how to create the featured painting. Orlando Shakespeare Theater is featuring two different Shakespeare plays during the month of February. If she's into photography, make a day trip to Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. For overnight stays, you can never go wrong with a B&B in St. Augustine (Cedar House Inn is #1 on Trip Advisor). I've stayed at the Bayfront Marin House, which has a beautiful view.
Gift. Anthropologie is one of the best "gifty" stores ever. I'm convinced their "Volcano" scented candle is one of the seven wonders of the world. Other great places/sites for unique gifts are Mod Cloth, Red Envelope, Blue Nile, or World Market, or Z Gallerie. Check out Orlando Broadway to see if there are any upcoming shows that she would like. For spa deals, Travel Zoo is a great resource.
Budget-friendly: There's nothing wrong with a quiet dinner & movie at home (did someone say kiddie sleepover at grandma's?). Stop by Whole Foods or Fresh Market together and pick up some quality ingredients for a nice meal (and dessert from the bakery!). Never underestimate the power of Marshalls or Kohl's -- always good for finding inexpensive jewelry, purses, shoes, and other gift ideas. You can find nearly anything on Etsy.com and often for half the price you would pay at a store. If you're feeling brave, pick out two Essie nail polishes you think would look pretty on her...she will love this. Finally, Enzian's "Popcorn Flicks in the Park" will be showing "From Here to Eternity" on Valentine's Day at 7:00 PM (Central Park in Winter Park). Pack a picnic and blanket and you're good to go! (Or eat at nearby Cheesecake Factory and have someone carry you there.)
