by: Jack Roman

Old Blue Eyes got it right when he said, “A simple I love you means more than money.” And that’s what Valentine’s Day is all about, creative ways to say I love you with out getting caught up in the over hyped commercialism of it all. For this first edition of The Blue Print I sat down with Ben Christiansen of Waterford Wine Company, and Danielle Gray and Libby Mast of Miss Groove and Miss Groove Intimates to offer up some low maintenance ideas that will make your valentine’s heart melt.

Day-time Romance

Many women say that anticipation is the most essential part of having a romantic night. Even in 2007 nothing will make a woman anticipate seeing you like getting fresh flowers at work. It’s not just the gesture, or the fact that women love gifts, but also because the other women in the office will talk about what a great guy you must be. While red roses are the traditional for love, try a different color, white or yellow ones are just as stunning. Or ask your florist to come up with a custom arrangement, something that includes your woman’s favorite flowers.

Pre-Dinner Romance

It’s time to have a few moments before you rush out to that romantic dinner. A perfect way to unwind is with some champagne and some chocolate. Ben Christiansen, an expert sommelier, says that nothing that can relax you and inspire candle light romance like champagne. He suggests a Rene Geoffroy Selectionee, describing it as, “A floral, rich and rounded wine. Like a million simple pleasures or a slight kiss in a glass.” A little champagne will definitely do the trick in getting your heart in the mood, he says. When she comes home from work meet her at the door with a glass of bubbly, some quality dark chocolate and a neck massage. Just a few intimate moments early on will go a long way later in the night.

Romantic Dinner

Even for food lovers, this is sometimes the most mundane part of Valentine’s Day. It’s expected that you will make reservations for “the best table in the house” at the swankiest restaurant in town. But that does not have to be the case. Instead, try a restaurant that she wouldn’t expect on a special occasion. For romance, some of the favorites were a back table at Good Life, an oversized booth in the bar of The Knick, or the incredible downtown view that Roots Cellar offers. What’s important is to think differently about needing to have to go to the busiest, newest, or most expensive place in town, just because it is Valentine’s Day.

Evening Romance

Everyone agrees that waiting until after the night has wound down to exchange gifts is a great way to keep her excited throughout the night. When you get back home she will be anticipating some things. Libby and Danielle say that lingerie should certainly be on that list of “some things.” “Maybe a comfortable two piece boy short and top is a good start,” says Danielle, “Or the I Love You Bag, which has panties that say those magic words in seven different languages.”

Either way she says that women love lingerie and getting her something that is sexy, flirty or fun is a good way to go.

Guys, no matter how you handle Valentine’s Day it is important to remember that it is a special day to recognize and appreciate your most meaningful relationships. Libby sums it up best as, “The best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is expressing your love in an unexpected way. I think that’s what every girl wants.”

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