Last-Minute Valentine Lifesavers

Are you having trouble deciding on what to do for your significant other on the most romantic holiday of the year? There's no need to panic (well actually, if you're just reading this there is!). We've come up with a few solutions to make Valentine's Day special this year without putting a hole in your pocket during these difficult economic times.

It may be a cliché to buy roses for Valentine's Day, but they usually do the trick. Visit Victor’s Florist, 123 South Orange Ave., which has hundreds of assortments of flowers including the Dozen Pink Rose Teacup Bouquet for just $35. If you’re looking for something smaller, the Tender Trio is just $25. (The other major florist player in town, Jardiniere on Irvington Avenue, recently closed.)

If you’re clueless about flowers or just not quite sure what kind to buy, just ask owner Len Zief to point you in the right direction.

“I know guys don’t know a lot about flowers. They're not flower savvy or whatever,” Zief said. “I’ll give them the right information about whatever they need to know to impress their girlfriends or wives.”

Another way to impress your better half on Valentine's Day is to take her out to a nice, romantic dinner. If you're looking for a more upscale local option, try Papillon 25, 25 Valley St. This French/American restaurant and martini bar offers a special Valentine’s Day menu that includes the Love Ballad Salad and Lobster Bisque.

Owner Yanick Ranieri recommends booking an intimate room called the Cote D’Azur that seats up to four couples.

“This room is nice because it is exclusive from the rest of the restaurant," Ranieri said. "It provides more of a quiet setting and gets people away from distractions from other tables.”

However, maybe you’re not into the intimate, romantic restaurant scene and you prefer something casual, or you're trying to tighten your belt during these tough economic times. You can pick up takeout from Reservoir Restaurant, 106 W. South Orange Ave. The place is known for pizza and inexpensive Italian food, but they're also offering a special Valentine’s Day dessert called the Sweet Heart Truffle.

Now before you go home, don't forget to top off this very special holiday with some wine or champagne. Head over to the Wine Emporium, 25 Valley St., to learn about some of their special Valentine’s Day discounts, including 10 percent off on 12 or more bottles of wine and 5 percent off on six or more bottles.

There you have it, guys. If only every holiday were this easy.