At first, I like the historical aspict of St-Valentine. Many variants do exist, and the one I prefer is the story of a priest celebrating marriages in secret when the lovers could not have a public one because of familly or political issues.

This is how open I think chruches should be...

I don't really appreciate all of the commercial buzz around St-Valentine's day. It seems that it is now run by florists, chochlate makers, and cards sellers with the sole purpose of their benefits !

If were a florist, I would certainly lower my prices on St-Valentine's day, helping my clients to please their beloved ones. From a marketing point of view, the clients will probably come back later to such a shop... Got it, florists ;-) ?

Oh, by the way, if you think of an e-card to look modern, I'm not sure whether she would find it modern or cheap !

If you want to go beyond chocolates, and want something else than a shining jewel, here are a couple of ideas:

• Some lingerie, preferably red
• A week-end trip - good in 2008 14th is on a Friday
• Voucher for a top-quality urban spa
• Flowers delivered at her office

But don't forget the most appreciated gift ever: some time together where your care for her !

A symbolic gift on St-Valentine's day is always appreciated, but I do love my wife each and every day, and I try to show her as often as I can !

This is love, and celebrating it each day is the best way to make it last forever.