Vancouver: Last-Minute Valentine’s

Yes, Valentine’s Day is tomorrow. Possibly, you have not shopped for the lady in your life. If you have done so, bravo, but studies show most men leave gift-buying until the last minute. Unlike Christmas, should you still be seeking that perfect gift (well, or that functional one), the shelves will not be bare. Whether you’re out to spend a little or a lot, here are numerous ideas that will surely guarantee her shoulder remains warm tomorrow.

Spa: Absolute Chocolate Experience
The ultimate in last-minute gifts, as you needn’t even leave your desk to order the online gift card for a trip to the spa. Order up the Chocolate Manicure ($55), Chocolate Pedicure ($75), or the Chocolate Escape — a 60-minute massage, pedicure and gift set. If you’d like to join her, the couples packages start at $250. Six locations, from Richmond to Vancouver.

Jewellery: Tiffany – The Blue Box [pictured]
Spend a little or a lot with jewellery in the little blue box. Tiffany has everything from heart-shaped pendants to Paloma Picasso Loving Heart Earrings. They also carry engagement rings, just in case the time is right for taking the relationship to the next step; just be sure to keep the receipt, in case she isn’t. In fact: just, don’t propose to her on Valentine’s Day. Locations at Oakridge, Holt Renfrew and Burrard Street.

Lingerie: Lace Embrace Corsets
While you may be tempted to grab a tiny pair of panties, or a see-through teddy, most women don’t want uncomfortable undergarments that are really bought for you, not them. With Lace Embrace Atelier,  corsetiere Melanie Talkington will work with your lady to craft a corset that she’ll actually like. Set up an appointment at the East Vancouver studio and you’ll be get to see this item on her, rather than shoved into the back of the panty drawer. 219 East 16th Ave., 604-737-1119

Kitchen Love: Heart-Shaped Cookware
While giving housewares is generally a Valentine’s no-no, a heart-shaped cast-iron pot ($200) might score you points that could be redeemed if not in the bedroom than at least the kitchen. The bright-red casserole will lead to many shared meals, which is quasi-romantic, non? Le Creuset also offers other heart shaped items such as ramekins and pie dishes, should you wish to put major metaphoric emphasis on your love.

Swept Away: Romance at Rowena’s Inn
Just 90 minutes east of Vancouver lies a luxurious 160-acre estate with rustic waterfront cabins. Book a weekend or night away any day until Sunday, February 19 for $350 a couple and receive breakfast delivered to your doorstep, a bottle of bubbly, and fruit and cheese platter on arrival, long-stemmed roses, chocolates, wine and $50 towards dining at the onsite River’s Edge Restaurant. Add massage treatments, golfing, cooking classes or a winter adventure at the nearby Hemlock Valley Resort, or just lock the door and escape. 14282 Morris Valley Rd., 604-796-0234

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Image courtesy of minxlj.

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