NEWS
By Chris Kaltenbach | February 12, 2009
Even in a recession, people are still saying it with flowers. But with Valentine's Day fast approaching, local florists are wishing their customers would say it perhaps just a little bit louder. "We've been getting fewer orders all the way across the board," says Avalon Thompson, owner of Enchanted Petals Florist on Lombard Street, who says her business is down significantly from last year. "Absolutely, it's hard. ... We're just trying to basically wait this out, like everybody else." Several Baltimore-area florists said business has declined between 8 percent and 20 percent during the past several months.
NEWS
By Sam Sessa | February 12, 2009
High on love but low on cash? Swooning couples shouldn't have to shell out hundreds of dollars on Valentine's Day. And with the recession in full swing, who can afford to splurge on champagne and chocolate, anyway? There is a world of options available, from dancing to Frank Sinatra's hits in front of a live orchestra to sipping red wine over spaghetti at a Hampden pasta joint. Leave the roses on the shelf, and try one of these five Valentine's Day dates instead. Each one has its own theme, multiple stops and an alternative option, in case something falls through or an event sells out. It's always good to have a backup plan, after all. But the best part is: Every date on this list costs less than $50. If you want to celebrate Valentine's Day on a tight budget, here's how to do it. Dance the night away The Plan: : In the beginning of the year, a well-known dance promoter started renting out the building that used to house Gardel's Supper Club (29 S. Front St.)
NEWS
By Sandra Pinckney | February 8, 2009
If there is an upside to the downturn in the economy, it might lie in the fact that we're being forced to go back to basics. We're eating out less, spending more time at home entertaining ourselves, and figuring out what's really important when it comes to material things. Valentine's Day might be a challenge if you're used to splurging on your special one (or the one you're hoping will be your special one!). A dozen roses in a vase delivered to the office could set you back about $100.
NEWS
By Maryann James | February 8, 2009
Last year was the first Valentine's Day for me and my boyfriend. Never one to fuss over the holiday - it's purely a commercial holiday, in my mind - I casually mentioned to him that I didn't want a big deal made over Valentine's. He agreed, and not another word was said of it. But my casual attitude turned out to be easier said than kept. Since I was covering Valentine's Day for Baltamour, the Baltimore Sun's dating and relationships blog, it was all Cupid, all the time. As I crafted gift guides and picked out card suggestions for those who chose to celebrate the holiday, I fell under its spell.
NEWS
By From Sun staff and news services | February 1, 2009
Valentine's Day Package What's the deal?: The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, Va., is a National Historic Landmark and a favorite locale for weddings and other special occasions. This February, it hopes to make Valentine's Day one of those memorable occasions with a "Valentine's Day Package" that covers an overnight stay, breakfast for two, a box of chocolates and valet parking, for $215 plus tax. What's the savings?: Room rates in February start at about $255 per night and that doesn't include a meal or sweets.
NEWS
February 15, 2008
Read about movies that opened on Valentine's Day. [ Movie capsules, Page 5C]
NEWS
By Justin Fenton | February 15, 2008
Wearing pigtails and a pink sweat shirt, Jennifer Gilbert-Duran skipped up the steps of a Pasadena home to deliver a Valentine's Day gift basket. But as 21-year-old Richard McLeod signed for the package, he got a less romantic surprise. A sheriff's deputy placed him under arrest on a charge of failing to appear in court on an open-container violation. "So that isn't mine?" McLeod asked as he was handcuffed. Anne Arundel County Sheriff Ron Bateman is no Cupid, but he did spend yesterday playing matchmaker: pairing a dozen crime suspects with their outstanding warrants.
NEWS
By Nicholas Testa | February 14, 2008
Valentine's Day was established in the fifth century to honor the saint of the same name, who legend claims was executed for performing marriages at a time when they were illegal. But somewhere along the line, it became a day of chocolate and roses. If you're looking for an alternative way to celebrate, check out this sampling of Valentine's-themed events: Top of the World Observation Level --Today, admission to the Observation Level in the World Trade Center is two for the price of one. On the 27th floor, the level offers a view of the city and Inner Harbor, and is host to a Black History Month art exhibition.
NEWS
By David Martin | February 14, 2008
It's Valentine's Day, and millions of folks will be giving one another cards. That includes the denizens of Washington, where America's political leaders also exchange special greetings. Here are a few of this year's potential offerings. David Martin is an Ottawa humor writer. His blog can be found at www.davespoliticalsatire.blogspot.com. George W. Bush to Al Gore How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. From the half-million vote margin To the five Supreme Court votes, You have given me eight wonderful years I never would have known.
NEWS
By Susan Reimer | February 14, 2008
This Valentine's Day, don't say it with flowers and candy. You might be misunderstood. Say it with a movie, instead. The words you are fumbling for can probably be found in the dialogue on that DVD. "Movies are a good way to send a message," says Beverly West, co-author of a series of books on "cinematherapy," finding happiness, love and fulfillment, one movie at a time. Just figure out your romantic category - a new love to impress, an old love to jump-start, a celebration of your newly single status - rent a movie that fits, and let the pros do the talking.