Christmas Proposal?

There is something about this time of year that makes people want to be engaged. Are you planning on proposing this Christmas or New Years? Let us know what your plans are by commenting to the post. We have been fortunate enough to witness a lot of proposals and would love to provide any last minute advice (or we can just shut up and listen to what you have to say).

A Romantic Anniversary Celebration

People often ask me if I do anything romantic for my wife. Spending my days providing a service that allows other people to show their romantic side, tends to leave me with not a whole lot of romantic creativity by the end of the day.

For your 10 year wedding anniversary, I did something simple that was really appreciated and shows that the concept for this business (creative, unique and not too costly) really does work. Although there were a lot of things we did and places we went on that special day, one thing stood out.

I surprised her with a trip to the hotel where we spent our first night as an engaged couple. She is a photographer so I had arranged for the hotel to display her best work in their breakfast room. When they escorted us in to show us around the hotel, she was shocked to see her work hanging in a public display.

Afterwards, we were taken up to the exact suite where I had proposed. Although the room was not decorated, I had done a "tub decoration" -- candles, rose petals, flowers, bath and body items, music. It is rare to relax in a bath and spend time with just the two of you - no distractions, no kids - just you, in the middle of the day. It was great.

Out of everything special that we did that day and evening, the thought of the picture and the set up of the tub stood out the most.

Sometimes We Forget About Romance

It has been a while since my last entry which is a reminder that all of us sometimes forget about romance. I have been married for almost ten years and people assume that I must be the most romantic husband in the world. The truth is -- I might be one of the most unromantic husbands since I spend so much of my time creating a romantic atmosphere for everyone else.

So, how do you remember to be romantic? It's the little things that matter most. Doing something special for her when she least expects it. Maybe it is as simple as making dinner or getting a baby sitter and surprising her with a night out at the movies. It could be taking the time to set up a romantic evening in the bedroom so that when she gets home the right atmosphere is set (and it's not an after thought like "Honey, let's turn off the TV early tonight and make love -- but we better do it now because I have a 7 am morning meeting). Yuck!

To me, being romantic can be as simple as thinking of your partner before you think of yourself (this works in the bedroom as well). As you get older or have been in a relationship for a while, you may find that you have less time to do things that are over the top (e.g. planning a day of picnics and hot air balloon ride). A simple, unselfish gesture can be just the thing you need to be "a romantic at heart."

Avoid a Rough Valentines Day

"What did you do for Valentine's Day, Sandy", asked Heidi.

"Oh, nothing much," sighed Sandy. "Dave brought home some flowers and take-out and we watched some movies at home."

"Well, that sounds like fun I guess," said Heidi. "At least he remembered to recognize Valentines Day. My husband forgot and at the last minute ran to the store and bought a box of heart shaped candy."

"Still, that's kind of thoughtful," Sandy surmised. "Who doesn't like chocolate?"

"People who are allergic to chocolate!" exclaimed Heidi.

A lot of people out there view Valentine's Day simply as a made-up occasion sponsored by the greeting card companies. Regardless, it is one day where your special someone would like to be recognized as being someone that you really care about. If you ignore the "holiday," you are going to have a problem.

Buying the right gift is the big dilemma. Much like a birthday or anniversary, you want to provide something that has meaning. It doesn't have to cost a lot of money -- in fact, some of the best gifts out there are available for under $100.

The big mistake that you can make is just randomly selecting something that someone else deems a "romantic gift." An elegant piece of gold jewelry is romantic - unless the receiver of the gift doesn't wear any gold and prefers silver. A weekend away at a ski lodge is romantic - unless the recipient despises the cold and prefers warmer surroundings.

The key is to listen. Are there any gift items that they have mentioned? Are there any activities that they have wanted to do with you? Have they used the phrase "I wish you were more romantic?" Has your special someone ever mentioned something romantic that one of your friends did for their spouse?

For me, I really enjoy it when my wife gives me a thoughtful gift that comes with a card that expresses her feelings. All of us have busy lives and very few of us take the time to tell our significant other how we feel about them. This applies to men and women alike. Even the most macho guy wants to know that he is important in the eyes of his lover.

This year, take the time to find just the right gift. Investing in a thoughtful, creative and romantic gift will be remembered forever.

The Most Popular Romantic Gifts -Women

What are some of the most romantic gifts that women want for Valentines Day, an anniversary or birthday? We did some research on the internet and asked friends, family and coleagues and here is our top 10 list (no particular order):

- Jewelry (Diamonds of course followed by heart pendants)
- A planned Romantic Getaway
- Favorite Flowers
- Perfume (also her favorite - don't guess)
- A day at the Spa (no kids)
- A Romantic Dinner (at home #1 followed by an intimate restaurant)
- A thoughtful gift (something she has mentioned before).

If there is one commonality amongst these items, it is that all of them require some time and thought on the man's part. That's why a romantic dinner cooked at home scored higher than dinner in a restaurant. It's also why planning a surprise romantic getaway with planned activities scored high as well. Women love when a romantic evening has been completely planned out (hotel, romantic items for the room, babysitter, transportation).

The surprise factor was also important. Planning something that you know she would like but does not expect. Basically, women want to feel loved and . Doing special things (in any capacity) to make a woman feel loved and cherished and appreciated is the ultimate romantic gift!