ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (CBS) — On this Valentine’s Day, about 70 couples tied the knot in huge wedding ceremony in Atlantic City, NJ.

For some of the couples at the big Boardwalk Hall wedding, it was Day One of their marriage.

But for Mimi and Elmer McNamara of Cherry Hill, NJ, it was “21,915 days, today,” said Mimi. “Actually, today is the first day of the rest of our lives!”

The McNamaras (top photo) renewed the vows they made 60 years ago.

(Credit: Mike DeNardo)

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“We’ve been coming for six years, ever since it started,” Mimi tells KYW Newsradio.  “And it’s just so lovely and everybody is so nice. It just seems like a great big wedding reception!”

And Elmer, ever the romantic, says getting married on Valentine’s Day has saved him money:

“I don’t have to buy an anniversary present — I just buy a Valentine’s present!” he said with a laugh.  And luckily, Mimi laughed too.

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Seven local couples gathered in Reading Terminal Market’s center court today to take part in a very special Philadelphia tradition.

Each year on Valentine’s Day, Judge Jeffrey Minehart takes a break from his high-profile homicide trials to preside over wedding ceremonies and put a special stamp on marriage certificates dated February 14th.

Juan and Melanie (below) were among those tying the knot.

“It’s about love, devotion, and trust,” he said.

“I’m excited and overwhelmed by all these people,” she added.  “I just hope I don’t trip.”

(Juan and Melanie celebrate their wedding day. Credit: Steve Tawa)

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Harold and Aleshia also exchanged vows.

“It’s all good,” Harold said.  “It’s a good day to get married — in Philadelphia, in the Reading Terminal.”

His new bride agreed with everything he said, but admitted that may change once their vows are exchanged.

The tradition began in 1977 when a confused couple wandered into a Philadelphia courtroom in which Judge Bernard Goodheart was hearing a jury trial.  During a break, he married them.  Every year thereafter, until his retirement in 2005, Goodheart oversaw hundreds of couples exchanging vows on Valentine’s Day at City Hall.

The ceremonies moved to the market in 2002, and now Goodheart’s colleague, Judge Jeffrey Minehart has taken up the lovely duties on Valentine’s Day.

(Edward and Gina had to postpone their wedding three years ago. Today, their son Joshua took part. Credit: Steve Tawa)

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And Reading Terminal merchants show the love, too.  Brides carried bouquets from Market Blooms, Termini Brothers whipped up a wedding cake, Iovine Brothers brought fruit, and they savored it all with Old City coffee.

WATERVILLE VALLEY, N.H. (CBS) — Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if planning a getaway combining fun and romance is creating high anxiety for you, here are a few stress relieving tips.

The tranquility of a moonlight sleigh ride?   Or the invigorating thrill of a downhill run on scenic ski trails?   It doesn’t have to be one or the other.

A winter Valentine’s getaway can blend romance and action.  Here are three places to enjoy it all…

The Snowy Owl Inn, near the center of picturesque Waterville Valley, NH, is an elegantly rustic setting for a getaway filled with those sleigh rides, cross-country skiing to nearby restaurants, and downhill skiing on one of New England’s premier mountains.

Then there’s Woodstock.  No, not that Woodstock -– the one in Vermont, where a piano accompanies meticulously prepared meals.  The Woodstock Inn is a romantic backdrop for lounging with wine in an in-room hot tub, between downhill and cross-country runs at nearby mountains and Nordic trails.

(The Japanese spa at the Woodstock Inn, in Woodstock, Vt. Photo provided)

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Closer to home, head for Lackawanna County and the historic Fern Hall Inn (below), within site of the Elk Mountain slopes.  Once a country retreat for the Johnson & Johnson founders, it offers the luxury of period furnishings and fine dining -– a perfect Valentine’s combination.

(Fern Hall Inn, in Clifford, Pa. Photo by Jay Lloyd)

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Happy Valentine’s Day!

“Jay Lloyd’s Getaway” Main Page

Valentine’s Day can be stigmatized as a commercial holiday meant to help sell cards, flowers and candy. However, it’s interesting to know that the tradition of Valentine’s Day has vestiges that date back centuries before Christ and takes on various forms all over the world. While the notion of expressing one’s love on Valentine’s Day is basically the same, different countries have their own traditions for this beloved holiday.

Italy
 

Photo Credit Thinkstock.com

Italy has a long history when it comes to Valentine’s Day traditions, celebrating it as a Spring Festival. Couples would spend the day surrounded by the beauty of springtime in natural settings like tree arbors or ornamental gardens. Their time was spent listening to music, reading poetry or strolling through the garden. 

Another tradition in Italy’s Valentine’s Day history was the notion that the first man a girl sees on Valentine’s Day would be the man (or look like the man) she would marry within a year. Unmarried girls would wake up extra early to sit by their window to look for men who walked by. 

While the candy tradition in the United States usually consists of some sort of heart-shaped box of assorted candies, the traditional candy gift for Valentine’s Day in Italy is a chocolate-covered hazelnut called a Baci Perugina. The candy is accompanied with a small piece of paper that contains romantic poems in four different languages.

South Korea

Photo Credit JUNG YEON-JE/AFP/Getty Images

Although the traditional Valentine’s Day is celebrated on Feb. 14, South Korea celebrates similar days of love on the 14th of every month. Each monthly celebration has its own significance and traditions depending on the corresponding holiday. 

The actual Valentine’s Day holiday tradition is meant for only women to be the givers of chocolate to their significant other and the following month it’s the men’s turn. March 14 is named White Day and men are meant to give their female counterpart a non-chocolate candy. April 14 is marked as Black Day and is geared towards those who are not in a relationship. The tradition for Black Day is for single people to mourn their single lives, hence the name of the holiday. Single people are supposed to eat jajangmyeon noodles, which are black in color, on April 14. While the tradition of women giving chocolate to their partners on Valentine’s Day is a widespread tradition in Eastern Asian countries, South Korea takes the tradition a step further than other countries with a bigger amount of chocolate given.

Great Britain

Photo Credit Mark Large - WPA Pool/Getty Images

 
Britain and Italy have a few similarities in their Valentine’s Day traditions: Both had similar stories about how the first man a woman saw on Valentine’s Day morning will be the one they will marry. However, Britain also has traditions all its own. 

While many countries’ citizens deliver handwritten notes and poems to their significant others on Valentine’s Day, paper Valentine’s were so popular in England during the 19th Century that they gave way to the production of mass-produced greeting cards we see today. In earlier times, a tradition for women the night before Valentine’s Day was to secure four bay leaves to each corner of their pillow before sleeping and to eat hard boiled eggs with salt while removing the yokes. This tradition was meant to provoke dreams of their future husbands on Valentine’s Day eve. Women would also write names on pieces of paper wrapped in clay balls to be dropped into water and the ball that rose to the surface first would be their future husband.

Denmark

Photo Credit Matt Cardy/Getty Images

People of Denmark referred to Valentine’s Day cards as “lover’s cards” and they were once made from transparent material that reflected a picture of a lover bestowing a gift to his or her significant other when it was held up to the light. Instead of the red roses many Americans associate with Valentine’s Day, Danish people give white flowers that they call “snowdrops.” People used to give pressed white flowers to their Valentines, but these days they have switched to bouquets. While love poems and romantic notes are given on Valentine’s Day, the Danish people also write unsigned, funny poems on neatly cut paper called “gaekkebrev.” If the girl is able to guess who sent it, she will receive an Easter Egg later in the year. Denmark takes its Valentine’s Day holiday pretty seriously and many people tend to take off work or book parties to celebrate this love-filled holiday.

France

Photo Credit FRED DUFOUR/AFP/Getty Images

 
France is often referred to as the most romantic place in the world but the country’s older Valentine’s Day traditions are anything but lovey-dovey. In the past, the French custom called “drawing for” or “a lottery of love” would gather single people in houses facing opposite one another and make them call out the name of their hopeful partner through the window. Women who were jilted by their hopeful Valentine would gather to burn the images of the ungrateful lovers in huge bonfires. The bonfire events would turn pretty ugly, with women yelling and hurling abuses into the fire. Because the ritual would turn into an ugly event filled with ridicule, the French government eventually banned this practice. The St. Valentin Village located in Indre has held a festival since the 1960s to celebrate Valentine’s Day every year from February 12th to the 14th.

Sara Lugardo is a Korean American who thrives in writing about Asian community news in Chicago. She has a Bachelor’s in Communication and is currently working on her Master’s. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

For fresh couples or even those who have gotten past the seven year itch, an important part of staying in love is spending time together, doing things you both enjoy. The activities are limitless; you might just need a few ideas to spark your imagination. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here is a short list of great couples’ activities that you can do year-round. 

Dining Together

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Become your own restaurant of the month club. Explore new dining-out ideas and pick the ones that sound most interesting to both of you, then make a reservation and get ready to have a night on the town. Stick to the same day every month to ensure you will always have time to dine together. This is a great opportunity to explore out-of-the-way places or new types of cuisine you’ve always been curious about but never tried. Build in a few romantic nights and feel free to embarrass other diners by making out shamelessly at the table.

Educate With Love

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Do both of you have an interest in do-it-yourself household projects or photography? Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to make sushi, wood working or Italian. Adult-education classes represent a great way for the two of you to expand your horizons and knowledge base together, plus acquire a practical skill of value. Make sure to choose an interest you both share and find ways of enjoying it outside of class, too.

Have A Breakthrough 

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Couples-only retreats offer you the opportunity to not only explore your relationship but also enjoy activities like hiking, boating, couple’s massage or yoga together. An added plus is being with other, like-minded couples and forming new friendships, which are healthy for any relationship. Look for weekend retreats in interesting locations either close to home or far away, then suspend your current reality and enjoy being together in a completely new environment.

Have A Ball 

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Pursue a sports activity together, such as golf, bowling, paddleball or running. Make time to go to the gym or take tennis lessons. Some couples enjoy friendly competition, while others prefer to play games together as if they were little, goofy kids. Whatever your sports style might be, find physical pursuits you both can share that will help you keep both your bodies and your relationship fit and healthy.

Have An Adventure 

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Become tourists in your own home town by visiting sight-seeing destinations and attractions, like boat or bus tours, museums and landmarks. Pretend you don’t speak the language and ask people to take your picture together. Re-visit your own personal landmarks, too, like the place where the two of you met or the houses you both grew up in.

Take Time Out 

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Make the world go away by closing the door, shutting off the phones and dimming the lights. Remember that the little, day-to-day moments you share are just as important as the time you plan around activities together. Be a universe of two and spend some time remembering what brought you together in the first place. Congratulate each other on how terrific you are and celebrate being a couple, in any way you choose.

For idea’s on what to get your loved one this Valentine’s Day shop at YourHolidayHints.com

Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

When it comes to expertly designed flower arrangements, Ten Pennies in South Philadelphia has long been a favorite of both locals and celebrities. With a huge variety of flowers and plants to choose from, pleasant and knowledgeable staff, and same day delivery services, this is the go-to place for breathtaking, last minute gifts this Valentine’s Day. Take a look at the amazing photo gallery of center pieces and bouquets to get an idea of what you’re looking for beforehand–and hopefully save some time in the store.

If you’re in need of an impressive piece of jewelry for your special someone, stop into Lagos in Rittenhouse for a statement item that will last a lifetime. Based in Philadelphia, this luxury line of artisan designed pieces is internationally known and celebrated for its superior quality and bold, show-stopping baubles.

Related: Top Jewelry Stores In Philadelphia

For a gift that will keep on giving, purchase a membership at Iron Hill Brewery’s “Mug Club” and get rewarded for drinking their specialty craft beers. The loyalty program offers a slew of perks, including a points program in which members receive a $25 credit for every 300 points accrued, 24 ounce signature handmade beer mugs to drink out of on each visit, and 24 ounce refills for the price of 16 ounce pints. The cost of membership is $35 per year, and members walk away with a collectible mug when they sign up–a perfect gift to give along with the membership.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

For the golfer in your life, stop into Springfield Country Club and purchase a season pass to this lush public golf course. For $810 for residents and $1,110 for non-residents, this is the ultimate gift for someone special. Your Valentine will be treated to all the amenities of a private course including unlimited play Mondays through Thursdays, after mornings sessions on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from March 1 to November 30. The season pass also allows for the opportunity to play at Paxon Hollow Country Club once per week (Monday to Thursday) for a reduced rate of $20 to walk or ride.

Related: Best Disc Golf Courses Around Philadelphia 

Independently owned and operated, Town Home is a destination for memorable gifts, jewelry, and home items in Center City Philadelphia. Known for its upscale selection and personal touches, this boutique aims to please and makes customers feel right at home. This is a great spot to grab your love a last minute gift that’s both thoughtful and unique…and looks like you spent months prepping!

Now… get out and get shopping!

Michelle Conron is a freelance writer and a style and fashion enthusiast residing in Philadelphia, Pa. Her work can be found on on Examiner.com.

“Assasination Idol”

Through March 31

For a classy theater option, choose this performance from the Tudor House. It provides the full package for the price: romance in a darkened room, live entertainment and a full-course meal with all taxes and gratuities included. As an added bonus, you get a chance to impress your date if you solve the murder mystery before Paula, Randy or Simon do.

(credit: idiopathicridiculopathyconsortium.org)

“Marriage (An utterly improbable occurrence in two acts)”

Through February 26, 2012

With a plot set in Russia that includes a matchmaker, a runaway groom and multiple suitors, “Marriage” is a recipe for a successful Valentine’s Day date. Brought to you by The Idiopathic Ridiculopathy Consortium, this Russian play is written by Nikolai Gogol. “Marriage” promises an evening of spellbound entertainment based on the roller coaster ride that is marriage and love.

Related: Theatre Review: “The King and I,” at Walnut Street Theatre

“Azuka Lounge: I Love You/I Hate You 5th Anniversary”

February 13, 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Venue in Philadelphia is TBD, Call (215) 563-1100
Price: $10
azukatheatre.org

For those looking for love, humor, hate and passion all in one night of performances, this melodramatic reading of written confessions will entertain both hopeless romantics and pragmatic cynics. Chosen as the “best of the best and the worst of the worst” from the “I Love You/I Hate You” column of the Philadelphia City Paper, guests will hear stories retold by some of Philadelphia’s best actors in a night of live performances that rival any Valentine’s Day play.

(credit: Thinkstock)

“All I Ask Of You”

Through February 19

Guests can enjoy all of their favorite romantic songs from the epic love stories found in plays, movies and theater sung live in one dreamy night. With the best and brightest voices from Philadelphia and New York City, this show includes musical numbers from “West Side Story”, “South Pacific”, “Phantom of the Opera”, “My Fair Lady”, “Casablanca” and other cherished acts from Broadway and Hollywood. For a romance bonus, serenade your date with one of these songs later on in your Valentine’s Day date.

Related: A Guide To Broadway Theaters In Philadelphia

“Burlesque”

Through February 19

On Valentine’s Day, the same melodramas, love stories and musicals typically take over the theaters. This holiday, however, choose to treat yourself and your date to a different type of live entertainment. Channel your inner passion with a romantic night of energetic glamor, laughter, dancing and short skits. If you’re not brave enough to wander into Kensington to the Walking Fish Theater, consider Peek-A-Boo Revue in the Avenue of the Arts area as a backup plan.

Lindsay Lewis is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

Hoots & Hellmouth

Hoots & Hellmouth will perform at their fifth annual Valentine’s Day concert at the Tin Angel. The Serrano Restaurant located at the same spot will fulfill all your dining needs before, during or after the show, and drinks are, of course, available. Self-described as “new music for old souls,” Hoots & Hellmouth is a Philadelphia-based folk band.

Related: Best live music venues in Philly. 

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia

The principal clarinet player of the Metropolitan Opera, Anthony McGill, will perform alongside the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia. Classical music will surround you at the Temple Performing Arts Center, as the orchestra plays Mozart and other original music selections for your Valentine’s Day enjoyment.

Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise

For the ultimate Valentine’s Day experience, choose live music aboard this venue. With a live DJ and a full buffet, you will dance and dine to your heart’s content on the Spirit of Philadelphia. Add in the champagne toast and the cash bar, and the night will be as memorable as any Valentine’s Day date ever was. Additionally, there are dinner cruises available the weekend before February 14th.

Karaoke

Make your own music this Valentine’s Day by singing karaoke. For those wanting to escape romance, karaoke is a fun and vivacious activity alone or with a date. Plus, you can snag a decent Irish meal at Downeys while you’re waiting for your turn at the mic.

Lindsay Lewis is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

South Moon Under is the store that will make your Valentine’s Day outfit one to remember. Express yourself through their handpicked collections of the latest trends in apparel, accessories and shoes. From BB Dakota to DV by Dolce Vita, you’ll find a full stock of brands that keep you fashionably unpredictable.

Addiction Studios is located in the middle of gorgeous Antique Row in Philadelphia and is home to vintage designer women’s apparel, designer accessories, jewelry, shoes and handbags. This one-stop consignment shop is not only the place to get your outfit for Valentine’s Day this year, but also a great place to get your make up done as well. Addiction Studios even has a salon onsite that will help you become gorgeous for your Valentine’s evening on the town.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

Giovanni & Pileggi’s stylists offer the sexiest, bounciest blowouts with lots of volume, movement and shine starting at $40. While you’re there, have your make up professionally applied by G&P’s in-house makeup artist Robby Nelson. He can help you learn how to master a seductive, date-night look for about $100 a session. And don’t forget that there’s nothing less sexy than a mangled manicure; G&P offers manicures starting at $20 and pedicures starting at $50.

Put your best face forward on Valentine’s Day with a rejuvenating facial from Lux Spa & Fitness, an Aveda Concept spa located inside the Omni Hotel. For a romantic flush from the inside out, try the All Sensitive Facial for $85. For silky smooth, touchable skin, try Lux Spa & Fitness’ Salt Glow Treatment (a 50 minute session goes for $105) or a 50 minute Body Polish for $100.

Passional Boutique located in the South Street Headhouse District carries a sexy assortment of corsets, lingerie and accessories that will put some spice into your Valentine’s Day celebration. With corsets starting at $39, get ready to produce shock and awe that will have your partner begging for more. If you’re in an adventurous mood, the boutique also sells liquid latex and other accessories like costumes, gloves and cuffs.

Related: Best Lingerie Stores In Philadelphia

Michelle Conron is a freelance writer and a style and fashion enthusiast residing in Philadelphia, Pa. Her work can be found on on Examiner.com.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Valentine’s Day approaches each year like the monster from Cloverfield: quiet at first, but you know it’s there, and suddenly it is everywhere, wreaking havoc from all angles. Then before you know it, it’s all over, and you probably died (or didn’t die) kissing some girl in a park.

Maybe it isn’t that extreme, but Valentine’s Day is inevitable, and for those of us that fall into the “single” or “considering buying friends” or “lying about my relationship on Facebook to try and make my ex jealous” categories, Valentine’s Day is usually spent trying to distract ourselves from our loneliness.

If you are one of the millions of singles just counting the days until February 15th, this article is for you. Let’s take a look at some ways you can cope with couples coddling each other while you freeze your lonely butt off in your cheap peacoat and beanie, lacking any sort of human contact. I’ll discuss ways to distract, occupy and consume yourself while you suffer through this artificial holiday.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Go Out With Other Lonely Coworkers: Remember, you’re not alone. Well, you are, but you’re not the only solo-Valentine. Everyone’s deeply hidden sadness can be cured with a few Jack and Cokes and some Dave and Buster’s skee ball. Or, better yet, Big Buck Hunter. Take out your rage on a few digital deer. With the proper mix of overpriced alcohol and shame you could be headed for an awkward morning after next to a coworker. All Vallow’s Eve (as we sometimes call Valentine’s Day) falls on a Tuesday, so embrace the morning after as a hungover hump day.

Just Play it Totally Cool: Thanks to social media, your ex(es) can track your one-person Valentine’s Day from afar, while they celebrate their newfound love aboard their significant other’s yacht. You must have a rebuttal. Photoshop yourself into some pictures with Rihanna, or on Maury for a paternity test with Beyoncé and Jay-Z. It’s much easier than ever to make yourself look busier and more popular than you actually are. Take advantage of fake retweeting a celebrity to make it seem as though they are trying to talk to you. Example:

RT @LadyGaga Hey @kyleayers, can’t wait for our Valentine’s date tonight. Kisses!

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Reconnect With Your Kids: If this option is even remotely a possibility for you, then I suggest you power down your laptop, get in your Civic and be a better parent.

Watch an Entire Television Series: Watching a single movie has too high of a probability of reminding you of that special someone, plus movies are about two hours long, which is more than 20 hours too short to consume your entire Valentine’s Day. I recommend The Wire or The West Wing, both of which avoid too many malicious relationships, and also have enough episodes to last you until Arbor Day (which I will now google to see exactly when it occurs).

There are numerous ways to make your Valentine’s Day as painless as possible. Find a way to distract yourself, and remember that Valentine’s Day is a competition. So make sure you’re having (or looking like you’re having) a better time than every single one of your exes.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

There are many rumors as to how exactly Valentine’s Day originated. Many people believe it is a holiday created purely by greeting card companies to sell flowers and chocolate. But my girlfriend assures me that is just not true, and if I believe it then I can get used to sleeping on the couch. Others murmur rumblings of Christian martyrs and Popes and love. Not together, or necessarily in that order.

When looking back historically, most people will cite Christianity as Valentine’s Day’s origins. There were numerous early Christian martyrs named Valentine, with a couple — Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Terni — honored on February 14th itself. No romantic elements arise from any of these Christian figures or their history, however.

Photo Credit: Public Domain

The first recorded instance of associating Valentine’s Day with romantic love comes from Geoffrey Chaucer in 1382, from his “Parlement of Foules“:

For this was on seynt Volantynys day
What euery bryd comyth there to chese his make.

The internet translates this to:

For this was Saint Valentine’s Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his mate.

Written to honor the first anniversary of the engagement of King Richard II to Anne of Bohemia, Chaucer’s poem spread through England. So very romantic, even taking into account that both Richard II and Anne of Bohemia were a ripe 15 years old at the time.

On Valentine’s Day in 1400, the French established a “High Court of Love” to deal with love and betrayal, as well as violence against women. Judges at this court were selected by women based on a poetry reading. Some of these poems survive to this day, and many people consider them the first ever valentines. The oldest of which is from Duke of Orléans to his wife, which was in French and very short, so I didn’t include it here.

Fast forward a couple of hundred years to 1784. The first soon-to-be-cliché love poem is found in an English nursery rhyme compilation:

The rose is red, the violet’s blue
The honey’s sweet, and so are you
Thou are my love and I am thine
I drew thee to my Valentine
The lot was cast and then I drew
And Fortune said it shou’d be you.

Isn’t that sweet?

Photo Credit: Public Domain

The transition from lovely day of expression to capitalism at its finest kicked off around 1797, when a British Publisher came out with The Young Man’s Valentine Writer, a collection of writing and verses for men who couldn’t create their own. A giant was born. By the 19th century, paper valentines had become so popular in England that they were produced in factories. Lazy men rejoiced. The first mass-produced valentines in the U.S. were produced shortly thereafter, by Esther Howland of Worcester, Massachusetts, utilizing the resources in her father’s stationary store.

Fast-forward to modern day. In the United Kingdom, 1.3 billion pounds are spent annually on cards, chocolates, flowers and hopefully awesome hot air balloon rides. The U.S. Greeting Card Association, which is apparently real, approximates that nearly 200 million valentines are sent each year, yet somehow I only accumulated three Scooby Doo valentines in third grade.

Now, with the advent and flourish of the internet, love has become even easier and more passive. E-cards, flower delivery websites, love coupons and more have allowed men all over the world to procrastinate caring about their significant others until the very last moment.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Hollywood is forever in search of the next big hit. Sometimes us movie-goers get something so fresh and exciting that we flock to theaters in droves. More often we get enjoyable retreads of last year’s enjoyable retreads. At least we know what’s coming, from the summer action blockbuster, the holiday family movie and, this week, the Valentine’s Day romance.

In our love letter to the love scene, we’ve gathered up the worst romance movie clichés. Maybe Hollywood will finally put these to bed — and start writing some fresh love stories.

Photo Credit: New Line Cinema

Kissing In The Rain

The rainy-day kiss is a romance classic, and cinematographers have all sorts of fun with it. Sure, The Notebook’s dock scene set millions of hearts aflutter. Sure, Spiderman and Mary Jane’s upside-down kiss was all the sexier with the cascading water and epic flashes of thunder. The device definitely works aesthetically. But the overuse makes it seem like most great romances occur only in Portland, during weather disturbances.

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox

Fixing It All With A Stunt

We know that for the sake of a story, everyone’s romantic problems have to be solved in quick satisfying bursts. But since Hollywood also likes to make sure that couples hit huge roadblocks in their relationships, this can make for some utterly ridiculous solutions to big fights/character flaws. Did one of you make a huge mistake? Just hold a boombox outside of the window. Has one of you been a complete jerk to the other? Just sing a song from the rooftops. Or sing it on an airplane!

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Valentine’s Day, like New Year’s Eve and Independence Day, is a holiday that sometimes seems to let us down. It’s supposed to be fun — even magical — but we’re often left wondering why we were ever so excited. It just doesn’t live up to the hype. And it’s worse for those unattached types, who have to suffer through what might also be called “Singles Awareness Day.”

Instead of getting down and out about your Valentine’s Day situation, gather a group of friends and celebrate not having to fake smile when someone gives you a giant red stuffed bear! Here is a stellar menu for an “I Love My Friends But Hate Valentine’s Day” party!

Also Check Out Recipes For A Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Roasted Tomato Bruschetta

Ingredients:

* 15-20 Roma tomatoes, sliced in half lengthwise
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped, plus 15-20 full basil leaves
* 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
* 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
* 2 ounces goat cheese
* Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

2. Mix together the garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt and pepper in a small bowl.

3. Place the halved Roma tomatoes on a sheet pan and brush the tops of the tomatoes with the oil mixture.

4. Roast for about 40 minutes or until softened and the edges begin to darken.

5. Toast the bread slices in the oven until just lightly browned.

6. Spread each piece with goat cheese.

7. Top with a tomato half and a basil leaf.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Baked Brie

Ingredients:

* One wheel of Brie cheese
* Honey
* Pumpkin seeds

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Place the wheel of Brie on a small baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is oozing out from the bottom.

3. Place the baked Brie on a serving platter.

4. Top the brie with about 1/2 cup of honey and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds.

5. Serve with pieces of crusty bread or crackers.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Parmesan Popcorn

Ingredients:

* 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 3 tablespoons melted butter
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Pour the oil into a deep, heavy-bottom pan and heat briefly.

2. Add the kernels, cover the pot and shake it over the heat until the kernels pop.

3. Pour the popcorn into a large bowl and add the butter. Toss to coat

4. Add the grated cheese and garlic powder. Toss again to coat.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Spiked Chocolate Fondue

This may not be a traditional Valentine’s Day party, but you can still have a Valentine’s Day-themed dessert! This one has a little liqueur to kick up the flavor and fun.

Ingredients:

* 1 pound semisweet chocolate, chopped
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 4 tablespoons Grand Marnier liqueur
* Morsels for dipping (sliced banana, strawberries, raspberries, cubed poundcake, pretzel sticks, graham crackers, brownie bites… whatever your single heart desires)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler over barely simmering water, heat the cream.

2. Add the chocolate and liqueur, stir until melted.

3. Once melted, serve with skewers and any your delicious accompaniments of choice.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Every Valentine’s Day, people scramble for flowers, candy and restaurant reservations. It’s so stressful, so annoying… so anti-Valentine’s Day! In lieu of buying a bunch of love-themed stuff and shoving it in your sweetie’s face, woo them with a romantic, home-cooked dinner. It’s intimate and special. More than a phone call to a local restaurant, it shows that you care.

Cooking dinner at home can be stressful and time consuming. We’ve put together an impressive, but simple, menu for your romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. These three delicious courses are each brimming with aphrodisiacs; they’re guaranteed to put any couple in the mood. You’ve been warned!

Also Check Out Recipes For A Valentine’s Day Singles Party.

Photo Credit: Christine Hinrichs

Spinach And Arugula Salad With Goat Cheese And Figs

Arugula and Figs are the aphrodisiacs in this dish! It’s easy to toss this salad together while the rest of your dinner is cooking away.

Ingredients:

* Large handful of spinach leaves
* Large handful of arugula leaves
* 1/3 cup chopped figs
* 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese
* Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
* Drizzle of balsamic vinegar
* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the spinach and arugula in a large bowl.

2. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Add the chopped figs and crumbled goat cheese and toss to coat ingredients with dressing.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Saffron Couscous with Roasted Vegetables

Saffron is expensive, but a little bit goes a long way. This “vegetable gold” adds the romance to your main course!

Ingredients:

* 1/4 teaspoon (a small pinch) saffron threads
* 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth, use more if needed
* 1 cup pearl (Israeli) couscous
* 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
* 2 golden beets, peeled and diced
* 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
* 1 large shallot, cut into half-moon shapes
* Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

2. Line a baking sheet with foil.

3. In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with about a tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkling of salt and pepper.

4. Spread the vegetables on the baking sheet in an even layer.

5. Bake until softened and browned, about 35-40 minutes.

6. In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable broth with the saffron threads on medium low heat. Let the threads steep in the warm liquid for about 15 minutes.

7. In a larger saucepan, drizzle some extra virgin olive oil and add the couscous on medium heat. Toast until just browned.

8. Add the saffron liquid and cook couscous according to the directions on the package. Add more liquid if needed until the couscous is cooked.

9. Fluff with a fork. The saffron will give the couscous a lovely, yellow color.

10. Serve the couscous alongside the roasted vegetables and round off the meal with a piece of crusty bread.

11. Top with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Chocolate Fondue

Chocolate is always a surefire winner. Extra points if you feed each other the dipped morsels.

Ingredients:

* 7 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
* 1 cup heavy cream
* Morsels for dipping (sliced banana, strawberries, raspberries, cubed poundcake, pretzel sticks, graham crackers, brownie bites… whatever your in-love heart desires)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler over barely simmering water, melt together the chocolate and cream.

2. Once melted, serve with skewers and any your delicious accompaniments of choice.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Has Valentine’s Day got you down? Is meeting that special someone proving more difficult than you ever thought it could be? Maybe it’s time to change your approach to dating.

Dating websites have come a long way since Match.com launched in the mid-1990s. And the stigma of meeting someone online is all but gone. These days, dating sites offer many opportunities to make a good first impression without the pitfalls of the dreaded “pick up.” You can be sure that the person on the other end wants to meet someone too. With all the personalization features these sites offer and the traffic they receive, the right person is probably out there somewhere right now.

Here are the top 5 dating websites that can change your dating life with just a few clicks:

Photo Credit: Match.com

Match.com

www.match.com

Arguably the best known of the matchmaking websites, Match.com boasts a membership of over 20 million. The site uses your profile to personalize the matches that it delivers to you. It also offers a high level of search customization; the Mutual Match function, for example, allows you to find people who are looking for someone like you. While viewing member profiles is free, a subscription is needed to contact someone (member conversations happen via email, chat and instant messaging). Membership plans range from one to six months.

Photo Credit: Plenty of Fish

PlentyofFish

www.pof.com

POF (as it’s typically called) relies on profiles created through a “chemistry test.” This test tracks five personality dimensions, each of which contributes to building a romantic relationship. Members can view profiles and send messages to people who interest them. The heavily used and well organized forums are there for the viewing without even signing up. Video and audio chat capabilities are also available. The site is free to use, though a paid version may improve one’s chance at a love connection.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

You don’t have to travel far from home to enjoy a romantic vacation with the one you love. The Philadelphia area is filled with cozy little hideaways in and around the city where you and your partner can rekindle the romance this Valentines Day.

The Rittenhouse 1715 is located on the historic and breathtaking Rittenhouse Square Park in Center City Philadelphia. The high-end accommodations are a perfect way to have a romantic Valentine’s Day. Rittenhouse 1715 is offering a special Valentine’s weekend package which includes; Champagne in the room at check in, a bouquet of freshly cut red roses or rose petals in your room, candle lit room with drawn bath by request. They are also providing a wine and chocolate pairing and breakfast room service. Bring your loved one here to pamper during the romantic holiday.

Hours: Daily; 24/7
Click here for packages and reservations

The recently renovated Wayne Hotel is located in the heart of Wayne, PA, just about 30 minutes outside of Philadelphia. This quaint town has plenty of fine dining, historic landmarks and traditional architecture to capture your interest. The hotel offers a special that includes the “Luxury Romance” package with a king-sized four post or sleigh bed and breakfast for two with complimentary champagne. Aim to impress with the “Premiere Romance,” with roses, Godiva chocolates plus various other extravagant and romantic treats. It’s the perfect little get away if you don’t want to stray too far away from home.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Hours: Daily; 24/7
Click here for packages and reservations

This family-owned award winning bed and breakfast is located in the beautiful countryside of Chester Country, Pa.  Duling Kurtz offers romantic combination packages, these include; an overnight stay in one of their 13 guest rooms, a continental breakfast, a four-course dinner and a bottle of Champagne in your room at the end of the night. You can also enjoy a hot air balloon rides, visit local wineries, or explore the area on your own. The Brandywine Valley has many museums and historical sites that you can visit.

Hours: Daily; 24/7
Click here for packages and reservations
Cape May, New Jersey is perfect all year round for a romantic getaway. The Victorian town is rich with architecture and historic landmarks from the Victorian Era. Stay at the renowned Queen Victoria bed and breakfast for a night. Take a step back in time and celebrate Valentine’s Day along the sea. You can take a carriage ride around town and enjoy the beautiful and colorful Victorian homes that line the streets along the one-of-a-kind beach town. The bed and breakfast has 32 romantic rooms decorated in the traditional Victorian style. Your stay includes a full breakfast and true to English tradition, complimentary tea and sweets in the afternoon.

The Inn at Lambertville Station sits right on the Delaware River and over looks the quaint town of New Hope, PA. The Inn has been a Lambertville landmark for more than 25 years and is home to one of the towns best restaurants. The restored 19th century train station has old world charm with a stunning view of the river and the coast of Pennsylvania’s beautiful Bucks County. Every room comes with a river view and fireplace. The Inn at Lambertville Station offers several packages from the casual overnight to the extravagant romantic weekend.

Related: Top spots for a (winter) first date in Philadelphia.

Christina Thompson is a freelance travel writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

Most of us will never date a celebrity. But we can dream, right?

Hot celebrities square off in a Valentine’s Day edition of Pick-A-Side. And you choose the winner.

Select a category below and get started…

Most of us will never date a celebrity. And, in certain cases, that’s just fine.

Nightmare celebrities square off in a Valentine’s Day edition of Pick-A-Side. And you choose the, er, winner.

Select a category below and get started…

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

This social club offers certain privileges for its members including the late hours. The elevator takes you upstairs to the second floor where international and local DJs help pack the dance floor. Six different bars feature an eclectic variety of liquors. Exclusive bottle service areas, two elevated VIP spaces overlook the dance floor below, and four large screen televisions are all part of the cutting edge experience. Singles range in age from 30s to 50s and don up-scale casual attire.

With its modern chic décor, sophistication rules at this location. Using LED video technology, G’s signature wall is composed of tiles that produce more than one billion colors to form artistic patterns that transport the guests into another world. With an extensive range of music, DJs, celebrity sightings, local talent and VIP bottle service, G represents a new beginning each weekend.

At the forefront of the Rittenhouse scene, this hotspot blends up a mix of vitality, sophistication and culture.  While taking a break from dancing, choose to sit at the dramatic bar in the center of the space. You can also relax the couch lounge, or watch a Grindhouse Film at the satellite bar. The top of the line sound system drop beats by some of the most talented DJs and performers the East Coast has to offer.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

Tucked away on a busy block between Sansom and Chestnut, Vango Lounge and Skybar offers different theme nights and no cover charge. The diverse crowd ranges from 24 to 55 years old. Spice up your life on a Monday and enjoy Latin night. If you are looking to meet young professionals, stop by on a Wednesday for a happy hour geared to career driven folks. Meet new people while enjoying a late night snack at this up and coming hotspot.

The younger set of singles ranging from 25 to 35 years of age tend to frequent this lively, casual meeting place that lends itself to socializing amongst strangers. Open since 1983, the pub has seen numerous sports figures, politicians and other local celebrities occupy its barstools, to add a little excitement.

Ready to take the next step? Check out the best places in Philadelphia for a first date in winter.

Cyndy Drue is a longtime radio and TV personality in Philadelphia. She lives in Center City. Visit her website at http://www.cyndydrue.com or check out her work here.

So if a girl is short on funds, she must employ all her energy toward re-framing the context, by kindling her own sense of adventure. This is wildly simple to do. She need merely send herself and her chosen companion to the bohemian neighborhood of East Kensington on a Saturday afternoon.

There, she may wittily alarm her partner by announcing, ‘Let’s go to the Soup Kitchen.’

Photo Credit: Stephanie L Jackson

If the date has any intelligence at all, judgment will be restrained until she has sampled brunch at this cozily appointed bistro, perhaps with a goat cheese, arugula, walnut pesto and avocado sandwich on multigrain ($7.50). Thriftier options are no sacrifice – breakfast sandwiches on a bagel (bacon or asparagus extra!) start at $4.50, and will get you through till dinner with an adequate glycemic index.

Then you may suggest a drop-in tour at the Philadelphia Brewing Company.

This antique and fragrant hideaway may as well be in Napa, for all its laid-back elegance and solid understanding of fermentation processes. The tasting room is the best-kept secret in Philadelphia – vaulted, burnished and engendering the sense of intimate privilege that every rake must conjure. Best of all, tours (Saturdays from 12-3pm) are free. You may be forgiven for suggesting that the owner is a friend of yours.

Mildly intoxicated as you now are, conversation may flow sufficiently well for you to wander down Frankford Avenue, taking in the sights. You may want to stop at the legendary Atlantis: The Lost Bar, and remain there till evening. You may want to stop in at the Rocket Cat Café, a bastion of avant-garde culture. You may wish to grab a latte at Leotah’s. You may poke your noses into any of the budding art galleries or boutiques that have arisen – seemingly overnight. The options are endless!

Or, if you are feeling superbly adventurous, you may wish to venture all the way to Bookspace, and prove your cutting-edge credentials beyond a doubt.

Photo Credit: Stephanie L Jackson

This barn of a coffee house intellectual’s pipe dream is hot. It is dusty. It is cluttered floor to skylight with disarranged works of literature, obscure bric-a-brac, and remnants of someone’s failed installation art project. It features jazz on Thursdays, circuses on First Fridays, and random shows on random occasions.

You can tell a lot about your date by how they respond to this. If they dive enthusiastically into the nearest stack of clutter and fail to re-emerge for half an hour, they’re worth the walk. If they roll their eyes and complain about the heat, you may pack them gently onto the Market-Frankford el train at the Girard Avenue station, retire to a café with your bargain used book, and congratulate yourself on an afternoon well spent.

Soup Kitchen
2146 E. Susquehanna
Philadelphia, PA 19125
(215) 427-1680
Hours: Mon 7:30am-4pm; Wed to Fri 7:30am-4pm; Sat to Sun 9am-4pm (brunch menu)
Prices $2-$8.50

Philadelphia Brewing Company
2439 Amber St.
Philadelphia, PA, 19125
(215) 427-2739 (BREW)
Hours: Free tours on Saturday 12-3pm; Retail Beer Sales: Tues to Fri 10am-6pm; Sat 11am-5pm

Bookspace
1113 Frankford Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19125
Hours: Tues-Sun 12-5 pm
see website for evening events: http://phillybookspace.com

Stephanie Lee Jackson is a lapsed artist, blogger and owner of Practical Bodywork in Philadelphia. You can find her archives at stephart.com, and her thriving massage practice at Practical Bodywork. 

Asparagus Salad

8 oz. Asparagus Spears, blanched, angle cut into 2” pieces
2 oz. Organic Baby Arugula
1/2 tsp. Kosher Salt
Pinch Freshly Ground Black Pepper
1 ea. Lemon Wedge
1 Tbl. Olive Oil Blend
1/4 oz. Parmesan Chards, 3/4” to 1” pieces
2 tsps. Lemon Zest, 1” pieces
1 oz. Roma Tomatoes, diced

Place the asparagus into a clean stainless steel mixing bowl. Add the arugula, salt and pepper into the bowl.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice (1 tsp.), and drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and arugula. Gently toss together to incorporate.

Place equal amounts of the asparagus and arugula mixture onto the center of the serving plates. Mound the ingredients as high as possible.

Sprinkle the parmesan chards, over the asparagus, and arugula making sure to distribute them evenly.

Sprinkle the lemon zest and tomatoes over the asparagus, and arugula making sure to distribute them evenly.

Crostini with Shrimp Scampi

1 small slice Brioche Bread (or personal choice)
1/2 fz. Butter (unsalted), melted
2 tsps. Olive Oil
2 each Shrimp, 16/20, peeled & deveined, tails removed, split in half lengthwise
Pinch Kosher Salt
Pinch Freshly Ground Black Pepper
1 tsp. All-Purpose Flour
1/4 tsp. Fresh Garlic, minced
1 fz. White Wine
2 fz. Cream
1 each Lemon Wedge
1/4 oz. Roma Tomatoes, diced
1/4 tsp. Parsley, chopped
1/4 tsp. Basil, chiffonade
1/4 tsp. Parsley, chopped

Brush the bread evenly on both sides with the melted butter. Place the bread onto a preheat grill and cook for approximately 2 minutes. After the bread has become golden brown and crispy, flip the bread over and continue to cook another 2 minutes, or until the bread is hot throughout.

While the bread is grilling, heat the olive oil to a light sizzle in an 8” non stick sauté pan set over medium high heat.

Place the shrimp into a clean stainless steel mixing bowl. Season the shrimp with the salt and pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the shrimp tossing together until evenly coated.

Place the shrimp into the sauté pan and cook for approximately 45 seconds or until the shrimp are about half done.

Add the garlic into the pan tossing quickly to incorporate and to avoid burning. Add the white wine into the pan and cook until the wine is reduced by half. Add the cream into the pan and continue to cook until the shrimp are done and the cream has reduced and become slightly thickened.

Remove the bread from the grill and cut in half, at an angle. Place the bread portions (shingled) onto the center of the serving plate. Layer the shrimp and sauce over the bread, allowing the some of the sauce to run onto the plate within the rim.

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp and sauce.

The Cheesecake Factory “Cheesecake Fondue”

Ingredients
6 T Heavy Whipping Cream
7 oz Premium Semi Sweet Chocolate
Cheesecake (deeply chilled) cut into 1”x1” cubes (We suggest The Cheesecake Factory “Original,” White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle® , Fresh Banana Cream, Adam’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple, and/or Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake)
Assorted Fresh Fruit (strawberries, sliced Bananas, pineapple chunks, orange segments and sliced pears)
Assorted chopped nuts
Chopped Salty peanuts
Chopped Toffee almonds
Chopped English Toffee
Large Marshmallows

Directions
“Deeply chill” cheesecake by placing in freezer for 1 – 2 hours. Cut cheesecake slice into 1” cubes. Begin by cutting slice in half length wise, cut across to create cubes. Some will be a little smaller as you cut toward the tip. Keep cubes in freezer until ready to serve.

Bring cream to a simmer in heavy medium saucepan. Add chocolate; whisk until melted. Remove from heat. Pour fondue into a bowl (or fondue set); place bowl in the center of a platter. Ring the platter with deeply chilled cheesecake, fruit, nuts and marshmallows.

Use wooden forks (or fondue forks if using fondue set) to dip the cheesecake and assorted goodies into the warm chocolate. Once dipped, roll in chopped nuts to give your creation texture or try dipping a piece of fruit along with your cheesecake.

Til Death Do Us Part
Laurel Hill Cemetery
3822 Ridge Ave.
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb. 12, 2 p.m.
$20 general admission, $17 members, $15 seniors and students
www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org

At the Laurel Hill Cemetery, “til death do us part” isn’t just a wedding refrain, it’s literal. Tour the cemetery with your guide, who will tell the love stories of those interred beneath your feet. Whether those stories end happily-ever-after or in tragedy remains to be seen, but it’s a given that this slightly creepy cemetery tour will be picturesque, interesting and totally unique.

Somebody Loves Me: The Music of George Gershwin
World Café Live
3025 Walnut St.
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb. 12, 7 p.m.
See website for prices
www.worldcafelive.com

Enjoy a night of Gershwin classics like “Embraceable You” and “I Got Rhythm” with Demetria Joyce Bailey and her trio, plus dinner and drinks a la carte. If that’s not a V-Day excuse to dress up, don red lipstick and mentally transport yourself back to the Roaring Twenties, I don’t know what is.

Bad Cupid: An Anti-Valentine’s Cabaret
L2 Restaurant
2201 South St.
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb. 12, 8 p.m.
$15
www.diversionproductions.com

For the cynics among us, there’s “Bad Cupid,” a “raunchy, sexy cabaret.” That cherubic, chubby Cupid we all know and love? No more—in this show, he loves drinking, smoking and porn, and he hates his job. Show up early for a pre-cabaret drink to drown your Valentine’s sorrows…or just to gear up for all of the laughs this performance will is sure to induce.

Mural Arts Love Train & Screening of Love Letter
Love Park Welcome Center
1599 JFK Blvd.
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb.13, Check-in by 2:30 p.m.
$80 per couple
www.muralarts.org

Philadelphia’s Love Train is seriously special: it’s the only one of its kind in the world. Now in its second year, the train takes couples on a slow ride around the city, while one lucky pair is married en route…by Mayor Nutter. Post-tour, there will be a champagne and chocolate reception, plus a screening of Love Letter, which tells the story of the Love Letter mural project through documentary and narrative.

Romeo & Juliet
The Academy of Music
1420 Locust St.
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb. 13, 2:30 p.m.
$10-122
www.operaphila.org

If you prefer star-crossed lovers to fairy-tale endings, the Academy of Music’s new production of Romeo & Juliet is right up your alley. In this version, the feuding families are portrayed as rival fashion houses, and Juliet is the face of The House of Capulet. Think the same general plotline and classic French music (though with English translations), just updated and paired with vibrant, avant-garde costumes created by students from Drexel University’s Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, Moore College of Art & Design and Philadelphia University.

Wine & Chocolate Pairing
Chaddsford Winery
632 Baltimore Pike
Chadds Ford, Pa.
Feb. 12 & 13; 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m.
$25
www.chaddsford.com

Go classic with a twist at Chaddsford Winery’s wine and chocolate pairings. Nibble three-time “Best of Philly”-winner Éclat’s luscious and uniquely flavored chocolates, and sip from a selection of six Chaddsford wines. With three relatively short classes offered on both Saturday and Sunday, you can easily fit another activity or two from this list in as well.

Philadelphia Belle Valentine’s Day Cruises
Pier 3 at Penn’s Landing
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb. 12 & 14, 7 – 10:30 p.m.
$74.90 for Sat, $69.90 for Mon
www.philadelphiabelle.com

Hop aboard the Philadelphia Belle for a swanky night on the Delaware with your loved one. You’ll enjoy a STARR Events-inspired four-course meal, plus a glass of champagne and the beautiful views from the cabin. Live music and a red rose for your special person completes the picture.

Valentine’s Day Ghost Tours
Starting at City Tavern (138 S. 2nd St.) and ending at Powel House (244 S. 3rd St.)
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb. 12, 13, 14; 8 p.m., with an additional 9:30 p.m. tour on Sat.
$18
www.ghosttour.com

The notion of spirits wandering the city streets is romantic in and of itself, but coupled with stories of love won and lost and the glow of candlelight, it becomes borderline cinematic. Now add yourself and your significant other, bundled up and cuddling close, to this candlelit tour.

Singing Valentines
Sounds of Liberty Barbershop Chorus
Anywhere in the Greater Philadelphia Area
Feb. 12, 13, 14
$60
www.soundsofliberty.org

Leave your loved one speechless with an old-school Singing Valentine–the Sounds of Liberty Chorus will serenade your sweetie anywhere in the Greater Philly area during Valentine’s Day weekend. They’ll also deliver a rose and personalized card…wearing tuxedos, of course.

Wild at Heart
The Philadelphia Zoo
3400 W. Girard Ave.
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb. 12 & 13
Packages range from $20-50
(215) 243-5235 for tickets
www.philadelphiazoo.org

There are few things more adorable than the playful, fuzzy, innocence of animals, but animals in love? That might just be too much cuteness to handle. Before I lapse into squee mode, here’s a summary of the Philly Zoo’s Wild at Heart: a personalized tour by a zoo expert of some famous animal couples, hot chocolate, and the chance to ooh and aww over as many of the zoo’s 1300 animals as you can, with your own sweetheart.

Sweetheart Skate
Blue Cross RiverRink
Columbus Blvd. at Market St.
Philadelphia, Pa.
Feb. 14
6 – 9 p.m.
$20 per person (includes skate rental)
215-923-6533 or email riverrink@delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com for tickets
www.riverrink.com

Brush up your pairs-skating skills and head to the RiverRink’s Sweatheart Skate. Ladies get a complimentary red flower, and with a DJ, photo “keepsakes,” and prizes handed out by the CW Philly crew and B 101, it’s almost like the prom all over again. Without the bad hair and ugly dress. And on ice.