Valentine Days - Tips to Surprise Her

Valentine's Day Tips for the Guys
1. The flowers- If you want something sent to her, order well in advance (like now!). Also, even if you bring them yourself, either try to find her favorite flower, or keep it simple and go with the never-go-wrong roses. Here's a quick color guide if you want to pick the right rose for
what you want to convey:
Red- deep feelings of love and romance
Pink- appreciation and admiration, a little lighter feeling than red
Yellow- friendship, great for the friends-only status (careful if you don't mean to put yourself in that zone)
White- because they represent innocence and purity, they're often associated with marriage, which can also mean new beginnings
Orange- desire and enthusiasm, exciting romances
Lavender- a symbol of enchantment, often associated with love at first sight

Also, unless she just loves them, don't feel obligated to add balloons. I, myself, don't prefer them, and if you're having them sent to the office, they're a pain to get home.

2. The jewelry- Obviously, if you're popping the big question, you know what to do for this category. If not, I say keep this simple too. Take notice of what she wears a lot of. If she never wears bracelets, you could take a chance on something you think may look great on her, but if it drives her nuts to wear it, don't be surprised if you don't see it much afterwards. And keep it real! A tiny, yet real, diamond is better than a big fake one for the same price, and many are allergic to fake gold or silver.

3. The candy- It doesn't have to be chocolate; does she have a favorite candy (i.e. jelly belly, twizzlers)? But, if you're going to do the proverbial box of chocolates, do it right. Don't go with the giant box of cheap stuff. You may think you look awesome showing up with a heart-shape box the size of your car, but I think she'd much prefer a smaller box of gourmet truffles, or other chocolate by maybe Godiva or even that new choxie at Target. Plus, if she's dieting (like 99% of us) she'll appreciate the smaller portion. Btw, even if she is dieting, never go with light candy (at least not on this day)!

4. The card- Whether you go with the mushy-romantic type, or the goofy-funny type, make sure you include a little more than just Love, your name. Try writing a little note in the card, or even enclose a separate letter. If you're gonna try your hand at the letter, make sure you hand-write
it! No just printing off the computer and signing it. She'll appreciate it much more, even if she can't read half of it.

5. The stuffed animal- Unless she still collects them, you can probably just skip this one. But, if you must, think of her favorite animal, or a new one she just discovered she likes. Maybe even one that reminds her of you (that would be a koala for my husband)!

6. The lingerie- First and foremost, ask yourself, 'will she wear this?'. If it's just something you yourself fantasize her in, make sure she would be comfortable (physically and mentally) wearing it. I know, I know, women wear uncomfortable things all the time for the sake of fashion. But this is precisely why she needs home to be a place of comfort and relaxation. Or, you can go with the thong and corset and hope she'll wear at least two or three times a year (maybe this day, anniversary and your birthday...if you're lucky).

7. Salon/spa gift certificates- These can be a great idea, or the silent treatment waiting to happen. If you go for the full make-over at a nice (note nice, not supercuts) salon, be mindful of how she may take that. If she's been complaining that she needs one, it may be perfect, just present it in the right way. For instance, just before she opens the envelope tell her you don't think she needs it in ANY way, but you hope it will make her feel happier about herself. Otherwise, just do a day of pampering at a spa. Or even write your own little certificates for a back massage, feet rub, etc.

8. Other gifts- Unless, she specifically asks for something as practical as a hairdryer or toaster, most girls are expecting something they'd want, not need. This is not the day to buy something 'you can both use!' either. Think personal and specific to her, something she wouldn't or couldn't always buy for herself.

9. The restaurant- Most women don't prefer to have to dress up and make reservations to eat, so think of where she would enjoy the evening most. Her favorite is always a good bet, but you could also surprise her with a new place. Maybe a place that just opened she's been wanting to try. If you do need reservations, call far enough in advance (like at least a week), especially for this day.

10. Cooking at home- Most important, don't if you can't! A burned up kitchen doesn't exactly say I love you in the best way. So, if you really want to surprise her with dinner at home, order out and serve it on your nicest dinnerware.
And, no, it can't be pizza. There are nice restaurants (especially italian) that will deliver, or you can pick up. Remember any allergies, and of course, her favorite foods. Don't forget the candles (unscented--no clashing with the food aromas)!

11. The movie- If you're going out to a theater, obviously all you have to do is let her pick. This is not the day to bicker over her romantic comedy or your action-adventure. If you're staying home and doing blockbuster, either both go, or if it's a surprise, pick at least three to choose from you know she'll like. They don't have to all be new releases either, think of her all-time favorites too.

12. Your attire- She's always on you about this all the rest of the year. Today, remember what she'd tell you in advance. If you're going out, think of where you're going and dress appropriately. Even if it's casual, don't go too casual on a special day like this. Unless she just really doesn't care what you wear, at least find a t-shirt and jeans without holes. Another idea, if you're staying at home, you could suggest wearing the ultimate in comfort, pajamas.

13. The kids- Whether you're going out or staying in, take them to a sitter and well in advance. No dropping them off on the way, or right after dinner (if at home). This is a special night, start it right. Try making it more special for her, and take care of this all on your own.

14. Last, but most important, remember that number! Feb. 14th is the big day! Write it where you can see it everyday, record it on your little voice-recorder thingy, do whatever it takes to remember! But, don't let it stress you out, remember also to have fun!