Romance isn't dead. Though if you show up this Valentine's Day with a $4 Hallmark and some carnations, you just might be. No need to stress. Even if your short on impressive ideas, Bellmore's retailers and restauranteurs say when it comes to buying for your love, it's all about knowing where to shop. So whether you're in the mood for a candle-lit dinner or something a little more intimate, want to buy an extravagant present or have only got a few bucks to spare, we've got a few ideas to spice things up. From the most romantic spots to dine to sweet confections and even the best places to score some engaging jewels, here's our guide to impressing your sweetheart this Valentine's Day. Because with all the heart-stopping options out there, there's no need to look like a stupid cupid.
Best Bet: Threads
You shouldn't need a reason to get dressed up, but Valentine's Day? Come on. Why not step into those heels and kick it up a notch with a knock 'em dead dress. Totally You on Merrick Road in Bellmore stocks a wide selection of evening wear and accessories for women that are sure to make you dazzle on date night.
Best Bet: Dinner Date
They say the French are a romantic lot. But if you can't sweep your amour away to Paris for the weekend, Bellmore's Sage Bistro is the next best thing. Nestled on Merrick Avenue, this cozy bistro-style hideaway may be a neighborhood favorite, but for very good reason. The menu of French culinary classics is well prepared, the staff is friendly and most importantly the mellow atmosphere makes for a perfect date night-whether it's your first or 50th. And on Valentine's Day the menu's appetizing array of aphrodisiacs is enough to warm even the coldest of hearts. Think oysters on the half shell, bottles of bubbly and succulent dishes like Coq au Vin and Duck Confit. And oh la la, the deserts. Perfect for sharing, their dreamy chocolate cake comes served over ice cream and drenched in a decadent chocolate sauce. Grab a spoon and prepare to swoon.
Best Bet: Flowers
Roses are red. Violets are blue. And come Valentine's Day you better believe no ordinary arrangement will do. Before you resort to flowers of the 1-800 variety, check out the custom arranged buds on offer at The Petite Florist in Bellmore. Known for their attention to detail and design, the little shop uses a variety of brilliantly colored blooms to create one-of-a-kind bouquets perfect for impressing your sweetie. For those of you looking to really score some points, their elegant display of two-dozen roses comes in a large green vase accented with baby's baby's breath and a matching bow. If you're on a more modest budget, their Daisy of Love bouquet features a mixture of fresh flowers, set in a cute ceramic coffee mug with a heart-shaped chocolate pop.
Best Bet: PG Rated
Candy is sweet, but the little loves in your life... they're a whole lot sweeter. But in addition to all those hugs and kisses you're sure to be doling out, why not give your kiddos some real sugar courtesy of Bellmore's coolest confectioner, My Candi. Far from your average candy counter, owner Dave Mayo stocks his sacharine shoppe with everything from old-fashioned lollipops to a wall of Jelly Belly beans and even 15-varieties of decadent chocolate covered pretzels. If you're cavity conscience, there's also a huge selection of gifts and cutesy novelties. And as for that sugar-high...well, that's what the babysitter is for.
Best Bet: Jewelry
So what if it's a perfectly predictable? Valentine's Day was practically made for (gasp) getting down on one knee and making things official. But before you can officially have her hand, you're going to have to put something big, sparkly and expensive on her finger. Easier said than done, right? Enter Polara Jewelers. Family owned, the upscale Bedford Avenue jeweler stocks an array of bold bridal baubles perfect for popping questions and yes, even some eyes. Whether you've got $100 bucks or a blank check, their helpful staff is there to guide you through all the facets of the selection process. And if you've already put a ring on it, Polara also carries a covetable range of estate and costume jewelry as well as luxury watches. Now, ahem, what did you want to ask?
