The Wake

Aahh…February again. Out come the pink hearts, red flowers, squishy teddy bears and enormous amounts of stress for both the single and the committed! What to do? Where to go? And how to say what you feel? Here are a few guidelines to help you out on the holiday:

Single?

DO: Smile flirtatiously at your crush. People are looking for love and/or booty this week more than any other, so he or she may be more apt to take the hint and say hello. Wear something you feel sexy in, whether it is a T-shirt and jeans, or a cute skirt or slacks. Others will notice your added confidence.

DON’T: Stay at home and watch bad romance movies by yourself. And please don’t go out with a complete jackass just so you can say you had a date on Valentine’s Day.

DO: Have a party with your single friends, or if you’re 21, head downtown! This is the one night when you (almost) don’t have to worry whether the attractive person at the table next to you is single or with someone else. Go over and talk to the person, if they had a serious date they wouldn’t be at the bar.

DON’T: Get sloshed and become an emotional drunk. This screams late-night phone calls to the ex, which you are sure to regret in the a.m.

DO: If you might bring someone home, clean your house and your room! Dirty boxers and empty food bags kinda ruin the mood. Light a scented candle or at least use some Febreeze to clear away bad smells and throw your clothes in the closet.

DON’T: Go to a restaurant if you’re going to get upset by watching happy couples and PDA – it’ll be everywhere! Grab take-out with friends.

Places to go?

If you’re looking to meet people and dance the night away, head to Fahrenheit, Drink, The Saloon or Escape ($).

In a Relationship?

DO: Make the night extra special by going out of the way for your honey. Clean his or her car and/or leave little notes telling the person how you love the way they laugh, smell or smile.

DON’T: Buy flower(s) at the gas station. I understand you’re trying to be romantic, but seriously, the gas station?!?! Stop at Target and pick up a card instead of reaching for the nearest thing in the checkout line at Super America.

DO: Make a card! I know this may sound cheesy and cliché, but it works. This is not just for the crafty. Your partner will appreciate this project even more if the hearts are pointy and the letters crooked. This is the one time when being inept will be endearing to your mate.

DON’T: Sound like a greeting card. I once dated a charming guy who had all the lines, but the words that got me the most were off-the-cuff remarks, which even took him by surprise! It’s easy to see through the “player” lines, which can be used with any girl in almost any situation. If you care about the person you are out with, personalize your compliments. Remark about the person’s personality or interest – the things that inspire and amaze you.

DO: Spend the night on your best behavior. If you’re normally late, be extra punctual. Space out during conversations? Diligently listen to every word. If your partner wishes you’d wear a skirt/clean shirt/tie, put one on for at least a little while. These gestures don’t cost money (you can borrow the clothes), but they make a huge impact.

Need a place for a romantic date?

Check out the Loring Pasta Bar, Ciatti’s, or stay at home and have a candlelit dinner and Village Wok takeout.

Good Luck!