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How to spoil your partner this Valentine’s Day

Station valentines day native

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, there are a few dividing camps many of us fall into.

The purists—who go above and beyond to fill every available space with flowers, chocolate and heart-shaped doilies. The critics—who roll their eyes and scoff at any mainstream display of affection marketed to feed the Hallmark machine. And the hopefuls—who fall somewhere between the other two.

Alas, as with all matters of the heart, Valentine’s Day can be fraught.

Regardless of your outlook come February 14, there’s no other day of the year shamelessly dedicated to ooey-gooey expressions of love, and that alone is worth celebrating. Take the opportunity to lean into the Valentine’s Day classics and spoil your loved one senseless.

The perfect dinner date

Go out for a luxurious prix fixe meal at your significant other’s favorite restaurant or stay in for a candlelit dinner at home? This choice can be tough and will probably depend on your budget and schedule (don’t forget: Valentine’s Day falls on a Wednesday this year).

If you’ve yet to secure a reservation, consider splitting the difference and hire a personal chef for the evening. It’s decadent and unexpected, and it offers the best of both worlds: quality cuisine within the comfort of your own home. It also allows you to work with the chef to fine-tune the menu and ensure all your preferred dishes are accounted for.

For a traditional option, a French tasting menu complete with foie gras, coq au vin, crème brûlée and plenty of red wine is always a win. Or go rogue and put together a mismatch of everything you and your partner like. Buffalo wings and pad thai, followed by a big banana split? Find a chef who can make it happen and enjoy!

After all, this dinner should be about you and the person you love.

The staycation of all staycations

As Las Vegans, we’re fortunate to live in a city with some of the most extravagant and opulent resorts in the world. However, many of us don’t take advantage of this as often as we could. Enter the couple’s staycation.

Book a night at your favorite hotel, and leave the kids, pets and computer screens behind. Getting out of your normal environment for the evening can help couples recharge and reconnect—paving the way for a truly exceptional Valentine’s Day.

Order room service, put out the do-not-disturb sign and bask in uninterrupted private time with the object of your affection.

For high rollers, Red Rock Casino offers a luxurious staycation package that includes Cartier bracelets, an in-room violinist, butler service, a romantic champagne brunch and more worth $25,000.

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for all-inclusive Valentine’s packages and promotions. There are many discounted date-activities and giveaways that may allow you to live it up with your lover.

A couple’s massage

If you or your partner find yourselves stressing about the perfect Valentine’s Day plans, schedule a relaxing couple’s massage and leave your tensions at the spa. It’s good for the mind, body and soul, and the opportunity to unwind with your partner can do wonders for your date night afterward.

Imbibe with the good stuff

Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to indulge in the finest wines and spirits.

Champagne is a lavish and celebratory option, so dig up that special bottle stashed away or stop at an upscale wine store. There’s nothing quite like a glass of bubbly to set the romantic vibe. There also are tons of great Champagne cocktail recipes you can use to dress up a budget-friendly bottle—extra points for including edible rose petals.

If Champagne isn’t up your alley, pamper your partner with a flight of top-shelf liquors. Once you find a favorite, buy a bottle to take home and save it for your next romantic occasion.

Don't forget...

Gifts, chocolate and a bouquet of red roses are all synonymous with Valentine’s Day festivities. Cheesy, sure, but that’s part of the fun. Grab pink cardstock, craft the perfect love note and keep the chocolate-dipped strawberries on standby.