PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

With Valentine’s Day slowly lurking around the corner, couples just starting out can feel a lot of anxiety building up as to how to approach such a romantic milestone. Expensive jewelry, pricey get aways and black tie engagements are off the list, and candy and flowers can be misconstrued as either being more friendly than romantic or simply lacking in creativity altogether. Fear not, for there are lots of inexpensive yet cherishably memorable ways to beat Cupid at his own game and set the tone for the rest of the year!

To start, take into consideration all the things that define your special someone and eliminate the obvious answers. Beneath the career and major passions lies that nugget of gold that will direct you to finding the perfect way to celebrate the Big Day. Where did she grow up? What did he do before starting his job? Does she occasionally indulge at the local greasy spoon? Does he amazingly break away from his closest friends to check out the newest art exhibit? Without coming straight forward with these types of questions, you can peer into your new love’s background and come up with some great ideas!

If she grew up in rural Alabama, a big city like ours can make her feel a little homesick at times. Why not grab a cook book and learn how to make an authentic southern dinner! Stop by her home with a bag of groceries and take the time to write out the recipes onto sheets of paper, perhaps with a cute background for her to keep. Remember to select recipes that are fairly simple and require very few pot and pans. Remember, the idea is to share the experience of getting to know each other through creating a meal, and not to groan over ruining her pans and leaving a mess! And yes, a vase full of cheerful daisies and marigolds would be very appropriate, along with a light hearted, romantic comedy on DVD.

If your special guy used to play bass in a garage band back in high school, find out which performers were his idols as a kid. Then, check the local papers to see if any bands in his preferred genre are playing and head on out! Now mind you, you don’t have to score Van Halen reunion tickets; if your man’s into 80s rock bands, finding a local bar that hosts cover bands would be just as fun! And hey, those guys usually take requests! Top the night off with a quick bite to eat at a short order diner and chat over coffee and pie until you both feel the need to wind down.

Tomorrow, I’ll share a couple of my most memorable Valentine’s Day celebrations with you that should spark your imagination even more! Stay tuned!