- Joyce CaryOn Valentine's Day you will definitely want to touch the heart of your significant other. There is no better way to do this than to plan to make it the best St Valentine's Day ever. It is a day to be truly romantic and to communicate your feelings to the extent that you give him or her goose bumps.
As you start your plan, think of the personality of the partner you plan to mesmerise. Identify likes and dislikes, and if you are not sure, find out from friends, co-workers or family members. Keep the plan simple, to eliminate the chances of blunders. Plan according to time and book locations that create the space for just the two of you to share your love.
Schedules
As soon as you have made plans, be sure to make reservations at a restaurant or hotel and ask for intimate settings, given the occasion. If you are planning a surprise date, be sure to check the other person's work and social schedules, and make sure that the day and time are available. Restaurants often fill up quickly and you could find that you have to redo your plan if your favourite eatery is full. You may make requests ahead of time for specially prepared meals that may not be offered as a part of the day's fare.
Valentine's Day would not be the same without the exchange of gifts. Red roses, dark chocolates or her favourite flower will definitely send the signal of a man's armorous intent. She will be tickled and touched if you send her favourite flower. Men like flowers, too, and when they are sent to the workplace their co-workers are usually green with envy. Apart from flowers, a well-planned gift will definitely make the other person feel special. Shop for the gift early to avoid the last-minute rush and you may want to make plans to have it delivered or mailed away in time for the day.
Cards
Cards are excellent keepsakes so purchase the card before the shelves get sparse and the better samples run out. Early purchase allows you to mail the card which creates some excitement. Select cards with words that really express what you want to say. It is even more romantic to hand- write your own card, which you can make from parchment paper, other suitable stock or decorative stationery. Handmade cards are treasured in a special way and can be very heart-warming.
Although we are in a technological age, resist sending email cards. Should you send an e-card, carefully make the selection and personalise it as much as you can, sending a special message to the most important person in your life.
Home-cooked meal
You may want an intimate setting and choose to dine in at home. Be sure to send flowers home, as a beautiful arrangement sets the mood. You may want to have your meal catered or you may find it more romantic to prepare the meal together. The latter gives you an excellent opportunity to start foreplay early. Even sharing the load of washing up provides the opportunity to strengthen your relationship as you learn more about each other.
As you step out for your Valentine date, be sure to dress up to charm the love of your life. You want to make a good impression so make sure you are wearing presentable attire. Ripped or faded jeans are unacceptable. Men should shave, get a haircut and splash the cologne she likes you to wear.
Off-the-shoulder
Women should wear a dress that he gave as a gift, or one that will highlight their features. He may find her shoulder attractive so an off-the- shoulder dress would be ideal. Women should wear comfortable shoes that will not make walking or dancing difficult. Every effort should be made to look sexy, wear a seductive fragrance and nails should be well-manicured.
It is much nicer to be courteous and polite to your date. Gentlemen should remember that chivalry is not dead. Hold the door open for the lady and assist your date when sitting down at the table and getting up to leave. Ladies should not put on lipstick at the table - instead, they should excuse themselves and go to the ladies room.
Reminisce
At the start of your evening date, enjoy having cocktails while you get to know each other again. Regardless of how long you have been together, reminisce about your days of courting and recall events that are truly memorable. Take time to listen to each other and really laugh. Valentine calls for a bubbly beverage, so pop open a bottle of her favourite champagne or sparkling water, poured in delicate flutes and celebrate being together.
Is there something special you want to tell your significant other on Valentine's? If so, make the time to mull it over. When you are speaking, you want to be able to focus on your loved one and his or her reaction, not worrying if you are saying the right thing. While you may demonstrate your feelings with flowers and gifts, words are important to communicate your true feelings. It may be the time to pop the question, asking your mate to share the rest of your lives together.
Back rub
What will you do with the children? You can make plans for grandma or have a sitter for the night. If you are staying home for an intimate evening, you may have to delay the romance until the children have gone to bed. Then you can get playful and affectionate with champagne and music of your choice. A back rub or massage while you watch your wedding video and recommitting your love to each other can really put you in the mood to be cuddled by someone special. Singles can recall their early days of romance and what the relationship means now.
The hallmark of a successful Valentine's Day date is the expression of your love for the person who holds a special place in your heart, and who you claim as your soulmate and lover for life!