Modern Valentine’s Day celebration ideas

Indulge in a couple’s spa experience: Side-by-side massages, hydrotherapy soaks, facials and side-by-side pedicures — taking a journey of the senses together will only enhance these joys.

Overnight stay in a jacuzzi suite: Leave responsibility at home and focus on each other. Suites with in-room whirlpools can be found in most cities…and some are surprisingly affordable. Be sure to choose a hotel that offers continental breakfast and late checkout times!

Give lessons: Skydiving, horseback riding, rock-climbing, snowboarding and skiing are just a few suggestions — anything you have talked about trying but have never made the time or opportunity. Share the exhilaration of the ‘first time’!

Plan a day trip or weekend getaway: To your love’s favorite spot, or explore a new city together. Arrange transportation and accommodations in addition to organizing a tentative itinerary to make the most of your time. Don’t forget to pencil in romance!

Give organic or environmentally-friendly products: Assemble a gift basket of carefully chosen goodies. If your loved one is eco-conscious, this is a gift that is certain to show them that you care about what matters to them.

Technology:  An MP3 player can be loaded with songs by your lover’s favorite musician or a cell phone can be programmed with your phone numbers — even a laptop can be personalized with a mushy screensaver. While this might be overkill for newer couples, it’s a great modern idea for a longtime partner who has everything!

Foodie gifts: If your significant other is an aficionado of gourmet food, fine wine or organic beer, then this might be the route to go. Seek out a particular product they have mentioned wanting to try or put together a package with a few interesting choices. The way to the heart is through the stomach after all!

Home-cooked meal: The alternative to an expensive night out dining is to stay in and cook your lover a meal made with love. If they’re game, you can even cook your special meal together. Make it a leisurely evening, sip wine and exchange plenty of steamy hugs and kisses between taste tests. No need to worry about dessert.

Scrapbook of memories: This is a fantastic way to give a very meaningful gift in today’s economic climate. The kicker is that you have to plan ahead, keeping mementos and photos of shared experiences. Putting them all together in a scrapbook to present to your love on Valentine’s Day will make a real impression. An alternative is to have a special photograph, drawing or painting framed as a gift, which is a personal gesture that will mean a great deal.