February 14, cherished by some as the most romantic day of the year, is just around the corner. And unless you’ve already chosen a gift for your loved one you’d better start thinking quickly.
In recent years, men have become far more relaxed about being seen carrying a bouquet of flowers up the street or battling for the best and biggest cards in the shops across Mayo, but apart from the cards, chocolates, and flowers associated with St Valentine’s Day, people are becoming far more imaginative in their choice of gifts.
If you have a special someone, make sure you ask her to circle February 14 on the calendar to be with you. Once the date is secured, start making some plans.
Say it with flowers
Flowers are a good start and give everyone an emotional lift, we all feel special when flowers arrive in our honour. Besides, no one can complain about gaining weight from a lovely arrangement of your choice.
The downside is they are gone in about a week. So why not add to them? Add a few twigs to the arrangement (ask the florist to add them ) then tie a few small gifts to ribbons attached to the twigs. For instance tickets to a special event, a little box of jewellery, or a tiny bottle of perfume.
Dining out
Couples who are relatively new to one another are usually most comfortable going out for dinner on Valentine’s evening, while many who have been intimate for a while prefer a cosy night at home.
Local restaurants are always booked out for Valentine’s night so make reservations now while you still have the chance. It doesn’t matter if you are first loves, romantics, or have more grandchildren than you care to admit, St Valentine’s Day is a day for romance, caring, giving, and above all celebrating your life and love.
Enjoy the relaxed ambience, friendly staff, efficient service and culinary expertise in some of Mayo’s fine restaurants well worth visiting for that special night out.
Dining in
If on the other hand you’re planning a romantic dinner for two at home, setting the mood is very important. An extra special Valentine’s dinner can mean lighting candles and munching on take-out food or it can mean spending some quality time to plan and make everything perfect.
For your dinner choose a setting that is new and different. Perhaps a small table in front of the fireplace, by French doors, or in the porch. If you have a view of water or city lights, even better.
Decorate your tabletop with something romantic - flower petals, heart-shaped glitter, or Valentine sweets are some ideas. And be sure to have candles. White, pink, rose, silver, or gold are good colour choices and fit the theme.
Romantic getaway
A getaway for you and your sweetheart is sure to make her love you forever. Where you go isn't as important as choosing an atmosphere that puts you and your partner in the mood for love.
Make reservations, get the brochure, and tie it up in a card or a decorative keepsake box. If you can’t get away to some place exotic, then arrange a picnic by the fire, a morning at a health spa, or a day trip to a neighbouring county.
