Happenings

The Month of Love

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, activities abound for every interest and budget.

What to Do?

If you’re looking to spend a night on the town, Tulsa and OKC o er a variety of Valentine’s Day-centric activities to try.

First thing’s rst: make a dinner reservation now. Whether you wish to dine out on the day of love itself or the weekend before, bookings will surely be packed. Romantic dining experiences in Tulsa include Amelia’s, Bull in the Alley, Ti Amo, Juniper and in the raw vu. In Oklahoma City, visit Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse, Ludivine, Patrono or Nonesuch.

On the hunt for ice skating? e Oilers Ice Center in Tulsa, the BA Ice Rink, the Blazers Ice Centre in OKC and Arctic Edge Ice Arena in Edmond are all open to the public. Be sure to stick around after for hot chocolate.

Carriage rides are a unique venture to try for the more adventurous couples or someone looking to ‘wow’ a date. In Sapulpa, Ava K’s Carriage Services o ers 45-minute tours of the town. In OKC, visit Bright Star Carriages or Oklahoma Carriage.

A quick internet search yields awesome results for other out-of-the-box ideas – from pottery classes to 5ks, cooking demonstrations and even skydiving. The Classics

For those with a love for tradition, you can’t go wrong with owers, chocolate or jewelry for your partner. (And yes, men want owers, too!)

For the local touch, visit Tulsa candy shops like Glacier Chocolate, Sweet Tooth Candy, Cricket & Fig Chocolate, and Nouveau Chocolates in Broken Arrow. In OKC, try Woody Candy Company, Apple Tree Chocolate or See’s Candies.

For owers, the tip is to order ahead – everyone loves a delivery to their workplace or home the day-of. In Tulsa, Toni’s, Mary Murray’s and Stems are solid picks; in OKC, try Trochta’s, New Leaf or Floral and Hardy. And for a pro tip: If you’re in a bind and can’t order ahead, Trader Joe’s always has beautiful bouquets for a ordable prices.

If you want to make a big splash with jewelry, Bruce G. Weber Diamond Cellar has the high-end pieces for maximum impact – whether it’s a ring, necklace, watch or earrings. Try Naifeh Fine Jewelry in OKC for the same e ect. Stay In

is one’s for the introverted couples who want to avoid the crowds. Remember a nice dinner, glass of wine and movie at home can be just as romantic as a big to-do. Here are a few recommendations: • About Time • e Big Sick • 50 First Dates • You’ve Got Mail • When Harry Met Sally • Crazy, Stupid, Love • 10 ings I Hate About You • e Notebook • Sleepless in Seattle • Notting Hill • Pride & Prejudice • Romeo and Juliet No Partner, No Problem

Whether you want a night out with friends or a solo adventure, try one of the following: • Galentine’s: Made popular by the TV show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day is typically celebrated on Feb. 13 and honors female friendships. ink brunch, small gifts, bottomless mimosas, and lots of words of a rmation for enduring friendships! • Spa Day: Treat yourself to a relaxing day on your own. High dollar excursions could include a massage, facial, manicure/pedicure, or a shopping spree. If you’d rather keep it relaxed, try a bubble bath, face mask or movie night. • Treat Your Friends: If ‘acts of service’ is your love language, help your favorite couple out by cooking them dinner, baby- or dog-sitting, or assisting in arranging a fun night. If no one else, your parents would likely appreciate it. • Sweet Treats: Stop by a local candy store or pick up your favorite restaurant’s most delicious dessert to-go. If you’re a whiz in the kitchen, whip up something festive, like Valentine’s Day-themed macaroons to munch on or share with friends. • Host a Dinner Party: Invite all your single friends to dinner – either at your house or a restaurant. Whether it’s a meal of commiseration or a chance to meet new folks, you’ll have fun either way. MARY WILLA ALLEN