VALENTIME IS RUNNING OUT

Valentine's DayAndrew Crighton

Life Editor

February 14 is fast approaching.

Short on ideas?

Well here’s some coaching.

Conventional Date Night

Don’t fix what isn’t broken, be sure to impress with this tried and true date idea. Take opportunity to put your best duds on and show each other off over dinner; pick somewhere fancy or special. Splurge a little and pick them up with roses and candies to put an extra cherry on top.

“…Let me count the ways.”

Break out a deck of cards, some paper, a pen and a glue stick. Write down 52 things that you love about them on a stripe of paper and then glue one onto each card. Can’t narrow it down to just 52? Don’t be afraid to slip in the Jokers for a little bit of extra credit.

Sneak Away for the Weekend

If you have the funds, reserve a few days in a romantic cottage or themed suite (if not’s too late that is). A themed suite can make it feel like you’re half the world away.

If you’re too late to grab one of those, then a nice hotel room in the next city over is a good alternative. Just that little change of scenery can make it feel extra special.

The Shakespearian Route

If you’re short on cash, but have a capacious lexicon, then compose a whimsical ballad to display thy smitten-ness. In all seriousness though, it’s free and as long as you’re not too cliché, it will mean a lot. Plus, if you’ve got the chops and the talent, throw it to some music and make it a song.

Surprise Night In

If you’re the socially awkward type or just don’t like people, then have a romantic night in. Order in or make it yourself; enjoy a romantic dinner in your PJ’s…or less…

Artistic Route

Draw, paint, carpentry or film, there’s an endless amount of media to use to make something entirely unique. It can be of you, of them, both of you or anything that would be sweet and thoughtful. Just don’t use it as an excuse for something last minute; make sure it’s nice.

Hit the Club

Quiet and alone just isn’t some people’s style. Head to the local bar or club and you’re sure to find something going on that could be a lot of fun. Dance and party the night away. If you’re single maybe you won’t be by the end of the night.

Bake Your Heart Out

There’s absolutely no limit to what you can do with a few baking skills. Anything from heart shaped cookies to a molten chocolate cake because they ‘melt’ your heart. Something sweet for after dinner is just a little bonus.

Hit the Road

It’s nothing extraordinary complex, but it can be a ton of fun. If you and your special someone have been together for a while, taking a long drive with beautiful scenery, funny stories and dramatic renditions of what’s on the radio can be an absolute blast. Plus, who says that drive doesn’t end with a special dinner?

Make Something Sizzle

Roses are nice, but they can be a bit boring and cliché. With a little bit of effort you can satisfy the carnivore in your life with mouth-watering bacon roses. It’s fun and unique, not to mention oh-so delicious.