Valentine’s Day Dos and Don’ts

From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002

For Men:

DO
1. Write a love letter (or, if a “tekkie”, send a love e-mail or text message to your Valentine’s cell phone).
2. Give something to your Valentine in the morning that she can wear or carry throughout the day.
3. When meeting your Valentine for a romantic dinner, make an effort to dress up.
4. Focus on the romantic aspects of Valentine’s Day.
5. Most importantly, remember that Valentine’s Day is February 14.

DON’T
1. Appear cheap–at least splurge on roses or a nice restaurant
2. Be late.
3. Plan a long evening stroll if your Valentine is wearing high-heeled shoes.
4. Eat garlic or onions.
5. Forget to say “I love you”.

For Women:

DO
1. Remember to show your appreciation for all that your partner does for you throughout the year. (e.g. tell him that he is the greatest).
2. Keep Valentine’s Day quiet and exclusive. (For some time alone, hire a babysitter for the kids.)
3. Leave hints or clues about what you would like to do or receive for Valentine’s Day.
4. Wear something sexy.
5. Cook him his favorite meal.

DON’T
1. Organize things with friends or other couples.
2. Be upset if he doesn’t think Valentine’s Day is as important as you do. (Men are like that.)
3. Ask for or expect expensive gifts.
4. Gossip about the neighbors or your co-workers over a candlelight dinner. (It’s best to keep the chatter to a minimum and focus on building the romance.)
5. Leave all of the planning for Valentine’s Day to your partner. (Take part in preparing a day or night that you will both enjoy.)