Read. Pick one. Do it. (You're welcome)

To me, whatever it is I do, it only makes sense if it is special. Special to me means I am taking my time to do plan something memorable, whether it is simple or over the top. Special occasions, such as birthdays, V-Day or holidays are the time of the year that we can get our creative juices flowing and add even more flavor to our lives! I always take advantage of these special days not only because I always like being creative, but mainly because I like showing just how much my significant other means to me.

You're probably asking yourself "Why is she writing all this cheesy crap?" Well darling, because Valentine's Day is ALREADY around the corner and I've received a few emails asking for tips on what to do this V-Day. I'm going to post a list of date ideas that men should be planning out for you, but, if you're a woman reading this and you're not sure what to do this Valentine's Day, just browse through this list and either: plan the date yourself (in case your guy is somewhat of a dead fish and doesn't take initiative), plan it with your man (in case your guy is the kind that is not creative enough to come up with the ideas himself but still wants to participate) or if you have an awesome boyfriend you can just close your browser cause he is probably already planning something awesome.

Moving on now, the following date ideas can accommodate any budget or relationship style/phase and they range from simple, to cute, to over the top awesomeness.  
Next to each idea one you will see one or more of the ratings below. It is my particular rating and how I look at each of the different date ideas. 
  

1) Do something artsy together. If you just started dating and you haven't even met each other's private parts yet, you probably want to stick to something less romantic and more artsy. So, you can go to one of those pottery art studios and paint something for each other, like a mug or a frame. Most of these places will let you bring in your own wine, so add a twist to this cute date and show up with a little vino.

2) Take a day trip. This is also if you just started dating and looking for something more laid back. Find a town nearby where you can stroll around, look at shops and have a nice lunch or dinner somewhere quaint and cozy.

3) Tell him to come to your house for dinner. Buy a few bottles of red wine, buy something READY from a restaurant that you like, instead of slaving in the kitchen for hours, and buy something delicious you know you'll both like. This way, the hours before he gets there you'll be able to get ready without worrying about food and prep the house with candles, candles and more candles. Also, spicy it up buying a new sexy lingerie and soon after your first few glasses of wine make sure you tell him you've got something sexy on. If you're a guy you would ideally invite her over to your house for dinner, and if you're intimate enough to get her some lingerie, DO. The night should be magical.

4) Dating a sports freak and there's a game on Valentine's night? Take them to the game. Even if you hate sports, just make that sacrifice and take him to the game. Perhaps after the game is over he will recognize your sacrifice and take you to a nice dinner.

5) If you really want this night to be memorable, have your significant other meet you at the lobby bar of a nice hotel nearby. Somewhere you could pretend you're having dinner at. Book a room at the same hotel, stop at the store and get 3 bottles of wine or champagne, some cheeses, crackers,  and whatever else finger foods you both like, get to the hotel at least an hour before your date is supposed to show up. Go to the room and prep the food, candles, booze, and the works. When your guy/girl gets there, have a drink at the lobby bar and then surprise them by taking them up to your room for the night. Great night, guaranteed.

6) If you both appreciate the arts, find a local play or opera and dinner reservations somewhere romantic. A classic date night that most couples can appreciate.

7) There are many spas that offer couples massages and you can both be in the same room together. Book a massage for both of you in the late afternoon, bring your things so you can get ready at the spa and then leave directly for dinner together. You will both be super relaxed, so choose to have dinner somewhere quiet and cozy.

8) If you find out your guy or girl's favorite band will be in concert on V-Day or a few days before or after, take them to the show! If the show is not on V-Day, then tell them you'll be busy working/studying/whatever on V-Day so you will be celebrating it on a different night! You will both have a great time and your significant other will love the surprise!   

 9) Now, this is the mother of all V-Day ideas. However, it requires both of you to have the time to do it and one of you to have the budget. Plan an amazing weekend getaway somewhere nearby (or far!) and do ALL OF THE ABOVE!