Valentine's Day is for Celebrating Love and Deciding How to Show It

Is this your first Valentine's Day with your sweetie? Or have you celebrated many Valentine's Days with your significant other? Like all of us, you're probably wondering what to get them. Are you thinking of something sweet and sentimental, something sexy and scintillating, or something that will win her heart forever? Whatever the case, it's always a challenge to decide on just the right gift to get. We have a few ideas we wanted to share with you, from delicious delectables to fabulous jaunts...

Advanced Laser Clinics offers you a choice of a free Carnival Cruise for two, or 7 days at a five-star resort in Mexico for two with the purchase of either an IPL Photo Rejuvination package or a Lasar Hair Removal Package for your sweetie. Even though you adore your amore just the way they are, they'll be thrilled with the fresh new look they'll get from either of these choices. Take her on a cruise (all meals included) out of San Pedro to Catalina, then on to Encinatas and back. Or leave from Miama. Or stay in Puerto Vallerta, Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, Neuvo Vallarta or Playa del Carmen' free! It's the gift that keeps on giving. Just call Advanced Laser Clinic in Hermosa Beach at (310)379-3010. She (or he) will love you for it! To read more, click here www.advancedlaserclinics.com

I had to include my favorite skin care line, Biocollasis™.  It is the latest greatest highly advanced anti-aging skin treatment that restores skin on the cellular level and protects skin from the onset of future lines and wrinkles caused by environmental factors.  Biocollasis™ also contains Elizabeth Grant's exclusive hydrating compound Torricelumn™ which is a blend of vitamins, proteins, botanicals, and anti-oxidants that penetrate deep into the skin making it appear firm, smooth, and younger looking.  Used and loved by celebrities, Biocollasis™ Advanced Cellular Night Regeneration is luxury skincare at its finest.  A fabulous Valentine's Day gift idea! She will love you for your fine taste.

Get a free Biocollasis™ Advanced Cellular Night Regeneration (value of $249.99 ea) by being one of the first 10 L.A. Splash readers to e-mail Elizabeth Grant Skincare at info@elizabethgrant.com. Please state "L.A. Splash promo" in the subject line. Learn more about the line at www.elizabethgrant.com

The Home of Precious Petals ~ With floral arrangements to suit every style and budget, our expert staff can assist you in making the perfect choice for Valentine's Day. We thrive on special and unique designs. And our underlying foundation is quality and value. Our quality flowers, creative designs, and professional service are our trademarks. We will go that extra mile to meet our customer's every need. For more personalized service, please contact us at 800-776-6211. Each order designed and delivered by us is looked upon as a commitment to providing you with the highest level of service possible. www.sylmarflorist.com

Wine Country Gift Baskets are rated the number one gift basket sight on the web according to Alexa.com. I personally use this company and have had nothing but great results all around. They have some of the greatest collections of delicious and varied contents and are incredibly well-priced. Here are some of their offerings; for more choices, go to their website: www.winecountrygiftbaskets.com

Valentine Indulgence : This alluring Wine Country Valentine spa collection is loaded with Cru de Provence white tea and ginger bath salts, body butter, shower gel, foot soak, bath tea, soap, bath soak, back scrubber, bath mitt and more. A great gift to help them take time to enjoy this Valentine's day. Just think of the possibilities! $29.95

 

My Chocolate Valentine:  Guaranteed to satisfy a sweet tooth, this basket is filled with Ghirardelli milk chocolate and milk chocolate with almonds, tiramisu chocolate, caramel cookies, Belgian chocolate pralines, mints, fruit candy, Mrs. Fields chocolate graham crackers, Botticelli chocolate peanut butter heart, hazelnut chocolate and a large red and pink heart cookie. A pair of glittering hearts, Valentine ribbon and a bow add the finishing touch to this sweet Valentine assortment. $39.95

Indulge in Passion and Desire at JIN Patisserie

Jin's intoxicating cake creations are just as mesmerizing to look at, as they are to eat.  Petite pastries abound with subtle, smooth, flavors and textures, like Desire made with Manjari chocolate mousse, vanilla creme brulee, crunchy feuilletine, and chocolate sponge.  Passion is a combination of mascarpone passion fruit and fresh mango.  Poire, French for pear, combines Pear William, dark chocolate mousse, and poached pear flambe.

  These are just a few of the 13 different cakes made fresh and hand-decorated with fresh fruit, edible flowers and chocolate decorations available at JIN.  Handmade chocolates come in 21 different flavors, including the exotic Asian flavor Pandan, and flavorful teas The du Hammam and Earl Grey to name a few.   Cakes are $5.25 each and boxes of chocolate range from $10 for a four-piece round box to $60.50 for a 32-piece 2-drawer jewel box.  JIN Patisserie, 310-399-8801 or  www.jinpatisserie.com.

If you really want her to feel spoiled, you can have 2D Xtreme Car Wash and Detailers come to her home at her convenience and beautify her car, for the same amount of money you would spend at a car wash. They are fully equipped and self-contained with their own water, electricity, and high performance tools, so all she'll need to supply is her car. It's effortless. Simplify her life and make more time for the two of you.  www.2dxtremedetailing.com Call: (310) 936-6321 (read their full article here) 

And if you're really feeling generous, for her, top car choice is the eyepopping Pontiac Solstice. Curvacious and vivacious, it's also a must-buy for men who hug the straight and narrow. He'll love its stiff chassis and low-slung driving position, and you'll love its $23,190 pricetag. Share a sunset, then day-break, with the two-seater Solstice.

Get his spark on with a fire-engine red Hummer. Beefy, buff and seriously tough, your boy might get a bit boistrous if you surprise him with a 2006-model H3.  You'll love its high-riding nine inches of ground clearance; he'll love its rear-slip differential. Price tag of $36,120 with satellite radio add-on makes this a great all-round package.

Created for her, and ultimately for you,  X Rated Fusion Liqueur is a sensuous fusion of ultra premium vodka blood oranges, mango, and passion fruit. Serve this delicious liqueur chilled, on the rocks, or combine it with your favorite martini. With it's sexy pink color and beautiful bottle, it's sure to fit in perfectly with your Valentine's agenda. At all fine liquor stores.  www.xratedfusionliqueur.com

I can't think of anything much more sensuous than chocolate covered strawberries on Valentine's Day.  Shari's Berries are the world's greatest gourmet dipped strawberries. Created from only the finest ingredients and most succulent berries available, these luscious treats have earned the title of "The Unforgettable GiftTM" with the reputation of a gift that expresses incredible thoughtfulness as well as exceptional taste. They ship their products nationwide, year-round, and guaranteed. They are shipped overnight the day they are dipped and decorated.

Louis Roederer Champagne 750ml and one dozen berries:

The ultimate gift experience ... imported French Champagne and one dozen gourmet dipped strawberries! For connoisseurs the world over, there is nothing finer. Aromatic, with mid-palate richness as well as density to the honey and white chocolate flavors. The overall impression is a tightly wound Champagne, with very good concentration and length. Each 750ml bottle is shrink wrapped then dipped and individually swizzled for a presentation of pure elegance. A handy pull ribbon is attached allowing the recipient to easily break chunks of confection from this incredible imported French Champagne. Best served at temperatures of around 50-54F (10 to 12C). $130  Red Velvet Heart Boxes: Express your feelings in a timeless way with this luxurious velvet heart gift box with a variety of their gourmet dipped berries. Each lovingly dipped and decorated berry will make your special someone feel like the most pampered and adored person in the world. Each heart box arrives with one dozen of our fancy assortment of dipped berries. $75.00

Red Velvet Heart & TY Caressa Bear with One Dozen Fancy Berries:

Paired for the perfect Valentine gift ... express your feelings in a timeless way with TY's Classic Caressa Bear. Their Shari's Berries exclusive velvet heart gift box filled with a variety of gourmet dipped berries. Each lovingly dipped and decorated berry will make your special someone feel like the most pampered and adored person in the world. Each heart box arrives with one dozen of our fancy assortment of dipped berries. $85 Swizzle Dipped Happy Valentine's Day Gift Boxes: For the gift that says it all, send our "Happy Valentine's Day" ribbon accent with an assortment of our classic swizzle berries. Each gourmet berry is hand dipped and decorated with swizzles and lovingly tucked inside a black foam lining inside a gold foiled gift box for a truly unforgettable gift. $41 - 50

1-877-BERRIES (877-237-7437)   www.berries.com

Nothing beats Falling in Love' at least when it comes to the fragrance and supporting products from Philosophy.  With a fresh clean scent, Falling in Love comes as a fragrance ($35), bath and shower gel ($22), body lotion ($34) and body souffle ($30).  Available at Sephora, this scent has vanilla, soft florals and ripe berry notes.  It is light enough to wear all day and is sure to send any heart a-flutter.  Philosophy also offers a Falling in Love pheromone' a natural odorless chemical, secreted by the body that helps to increase the sense of well being.  And we all know that nothing makes you feel as well as Falling in Love.  Sephora is located on the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica just north of Santa Monica Blvd and carries a wide variety of excellent Valentines presents if you're Falling in Love or just in love.  From fragrance to skincare, make-up to gifts, Sephora is the Beauty Authority.  (310) 395-3460  Fantastic gifts also available online at www.sephora.com

Have fun in the shower. ME! Bath Shower Sherbet is a daily cleanser that exfoliates the skin while also cleansing it. It contains Vitamin E, sugar, Jojoba Oil, fragrance and man made exfoliating beads that will not scratch the surface of the skin. Comes in the following yummy flavors: Cranberry Fig, Hawaiian Lei, Land of Milk & Honey, Peaches N Cream, Southern Magnolia, Strawberry Kiwi and Summer Rain! Retails for $24.00 - www.mebath.com or www.ebubbles.com 

If the way to someone's heart is through their stomach, than Natas Pastries could be your secret weapon. Natas is the only Portuguese bakery in Los Angeles. Early each morning, Fatima and the executive pasty chef make an array of pastries by hand, using the highest quality European ingredients. By 7 a.m. the pastry cases are fully stocked with traditional Portuguese favorites, including natas, queadas, pastels de coco, bolas de Berlin, and Portuguese sweet bread, and more contemporary European pastries such as strudels, Napoleons, eclairs and petitfours. Everything is baked from the heart at Natas Pastries. Call (818) 788-8050 or www.NatasPastries.com

How about a little twist on champagne? For the young and hip, pink champagne is so your grandmother's Valentine's drink.  The latest craze is rose beer.  Wittekerke Rose is pink with the juice of raspberries.  The combination of the Belgian beer (voted 'the best' two years in a row), and the sweet fruit that cuts the bitter with exploding freshness has been a real winner with the ladies.  Wittekerke Rose is at fine liquor stores and comes packaged in a bright pink wrapper.  For more information go to http://www.globalbeer.com/. 

Want to indulge in chocolate but not the calories? Why not do it with a calorie free treat that compliments a favorite bottle of champagne, decadent indulgence or special keepsake? 

When it comes to pleasure, there is nothing like the revitalizing lift you get with the tantalizing products found in Selona's Chocolate Therapy Body Rejuvenating and An Evening To Remember Valentine's Day Collections. The aphrodisiac and mood enhancing properties that have historically surrounded chocolate have contributed to its reputation as the food of love.  Chocolate contains compounds known to stimulate the release of dopamine in the brain.  The release of dopamine can excite our pleasure zones and create a feeling of Euphoria that increases the heart rate similar to that of a person in love. 
 
Chocolate Therapy Body Rejuvenating Collection:  Includes: Tempest Truffle Exfoliating Body Scrub A multi-layered blend of chocolate and marshmallow that offers you a guilt fee mixture of your favorite dessert. Dulce De Leche Exfoliating Body Scrub - From the alluring opening to the captivating finish, this scrumptious blend offers a hint of sugar and caramel with the instant gratification that can be found in the exquisite dessert. Cocoa Cream Mint Exfoliating Body Scrub - This infusion of chocolate and invigorating peppermint essences will leave your skin vibrant and cool. $72.00
 
An Evening To Remember Collection. Includes: Cream De Lux Pure Moisture Body Wash - This invigorating body wash is a perfect blend of butter cream swirled with a hint of vanilla that pleasantly compliments Selona's chocolate inspired sugar body scrubs.  Tempest Truffle Exfoliating Body Scrub and Cocoa Cream Mint Exfoliating Body Scrub. $46.00  
Experience Selona and ultra-rich body care at www.selonabeauty.com.

On Valentine's Day, don't 'just show up' Shimmer like Magic. Shimmer Magic Skin Care Center uses the latest and most effective state-of-the-art non-surgical skin treatments including Laser technology designed to make your skin sparkle.

Shimmer Magic in West Hollywood is a skin care center offering procedures to help you look fabulous. Consult with their medical experts they will tell you wihich procedure is best for you. Like the ancient Egyptians who used oils, salts, and alabaster to aesthetically improve their skin, Shimmer Magic has everything you need to turn back the clock today including chemical peels, Botox and dermal fillers such as Restylane. Shimmer Magic sells extremely high quality skin care products at an affordable price. A doctor superviese all procedures done on the  premises. Shimmer Magic's  vision is to offer the community a skin care center that does it right, does it safely and does it well.

Let the Magic make you over. Special low Valentine's Day prices: Botox 10 units @ $70, Restylane dermal filler per syringe $375, Microdermabrasion (face) $70' through Feb. 28th. Shimmer Magic Beverly Hills (310) 289-9422

Overlooking the blue Pacific waters of Southern California the St. Regis Resort, Monarch Beach beckons guests to indulge in luxury accommodations and personalized service at its breathtaking retreat.  With their 'Valentine's Day Romantic Retreat' Package, couples can celebrate their love with a special romantic getaway.  Fresh flowers and a bottle of chilled champagne await guests checking into one of the luxurious guest rooms.

A unique gift from Spa Gaucin is also provided for an added touch of sheer elegance.  Couples can enjoy the beauty and extravagance of their guestroom while enjoying a private in-room breakfast or choose to dine out on the scenic veranda of Motif restaurant.  The Valentine's Day Romantic Retreat package starts at $585 per night and is available February 5-19. 

The Sweet Splendor couple's spa package is a delicious way to celebrate this romantic time of year.  While relaxing near the crackling fireplace in an exclusive couple's spa suite, lovers will be treated to a one-of-a-kind experience. The package will consist of a soothing aroma bath for two with homemade chocolates and fine wine; an energy balancing aroma sensory journey that will delight the senses and calm the soul; a 90-minute Swedish massage and finally a soothing scalp massage.  Sweet Splendor is priced at $650 per couple and includes a special spa gift; available February 5-19, 2006.

Couple's will take pleasure in the Eternal Bliss spa package as they relax with an aroma bath for two while enjoying champagne and chocolate by the warm glow of the fireplace.  The atmosphere is most pleasing as the Roman tub is surrounded by gleaming candles, and the couple's cares will be released while their bodies are refreshed.  After the bath, a healing hands treatment is provided, where dry, tired hands will be rehabilitated with an intensive massage.  Finally, couples receive a 60-minute signature coastal stone massage and mint foot relief treatment. Eternal Bliss is priced at $590 per couple and includes a special spa gift; available February 5-19, 2006. 

To book packages or for more information, please call (949) 234-3200 or (800) 722-1543, or visit www.stregismb.com.

A Variety of Spa Packages Lure Lovers to Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa. In Huntington Beach, Calif., from private therapeutic rose petal baths for two, to passion oil massages and sensual chocolate experiences, Pacific Waters Spa at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa is offering a variety of special packages at special rates from February 1 through March 30, 2006 in celebration of Valentine's Day.

Couples Cupid's Crush Package: Guests will escape into romantic bliss while experiencing the Spa's Couples Cupid's Crush Package.  The experience begins with a 25-minute Rose Petal Thalasso Bath for two and is followed by an 80-minute Aromatherapy Sea Stone Couples Massage. This combination encourages harmony and a unique and unforgettable sensation of relaxation.  For Valentine's Day, this package, normally $435, is offered at $350.

Sea of Love Package: For lovers wanting to give their Valentine a unique head-to-toe experience that helps balance and rejuvenate the central nervous system, Pacific Waters Spa offers the Sea of Love Package.  The package begins with a 50 minute Passion Oil full body massage that works to heighten senses when applied to the back, hands and feet.  The treatment continues with a Sea of Life 50-minute facial.  As the body inhales and exhales in a tide-like rhythm, a sense of floating and deep relaxation makes this an unforgettable experience. For Valentine's Day, this package, normally $265, is offered at $225.

Chocolate Body Bar: The aromatic and exotic scent of chocolate gives spa enthusiasts an overwhelming sensation of indulgence and sense of well-being.  The Chocolate Body Bar Package features a luxurious 25-minute Chocolate Mint Scrub, followed by a 25-minute application of decadent Chocolate Massage lotion, leaving skin refreshed, vital and nourished. For Valentine's Day, this package, normally $130, is offered at $115.

Decadent Chocolate Pedicure: This decadent pedicure delights feet like an ice cream sundae soothes the soul.  Feet are first cleansed with a rich cocoa cleanser, then exfoliated with a chocolate scrub and wrapped in a warm caramel hydrator.  For Valentine's Day, this pedicure, normally $85, is offered at $75.

In addition to Valentine's specials, Pacific Waters Spa offers a broad menu of unique treatments inspired by the Southern California Coast to delight the most savvy spa vacationer. Nestled in a secluded courtyard, the 20,000 square-foot building evokes a seaside Mediterranean experience with architecture reminiscent of an elegant Spanish estate and an entrance highlighted by Koi ponds and flaming torches. The Pacific Waters Spa is open daily.  www.huntingtonbeach.hyatt.com

From Pure Romance, the relationship enhancement specialists, there is the The H2'O' Valentine's Package that includes: Romance Bubbles - Gentle bubble bath and shower gel, infused with pheromones and champagne.  The Pulsa Bath Ball - Vibrating loofah sponge for shower or bath massages and water adventures! Bed of Roses - Contains four tea lights, scented rose petals and invitation for your lover! $39.50.  What's the perfect accessory for a lingerie look? Marabou slippers - of course! With a 2' heel, she won't need any help climbing on her pedestal but if she does, you can surely lend a hand.  Imported.  $39.50

Also on their website, find other sexy items like Whipped! A unique body cream with skin softening moisturizers. The rich, buttery texture is flavored for edible massages or a playful lubricant to enhance the mood. $11.00 And Between the Sheets - Pheromone-based, unisex spray can be used on the body or at home for a romantic and sensually stimulating scent.  Spray on sheets for the elegant feel of satin.  4 oz.   $10.00 www.pureromance.com

And if you're feeling the pressure, Patty Brisbin, the CEO/founder of Pure Romance,  shares some more insight into making this Valentine's Day the best ever:

Don't use Valentines Day as a Band-Aid to cover up your relationship wounds View it as a reminder for encouraging one other to work on your relationship.
Be happy with what you have. Too often society teaches us to hold out for the next best thing. Be careful not to take your relationship for granted.
Communicate - The gift of communication is more important than chocolate
Let your imagination run wild! Explore all of your erogenous zones discover new ones that you never knew existed.
Don't Stress There is enough stress in your everyday life. The celebration of love should be patient and joyful, not stressful.
Less is more. Keep your Valentine's Day focused on each other, rather than gifts.
Try exploring the depths of your sensuality.
Money can't buy happiness or love. Enjoy the intangibles.
Treat your beloved to a feast of aphrodisiacs. Anyone care for Oysters?
Put the icing on the cake with any Pure Romance product. For those sassy types,send your Valentine an email from our Wish List at www.pureromance.com.
 
And if you're single, all hope is not lost! Instead of relying on Cupid for Valentine's Day luck, you can check out a HurryDate party in the LA-area!  Go on up to 20 real, live dates in one fun night out each just 4 minutes.  Mark who you'd like to be your Valentine on your SCOREcard, and HurryDate will match you up.  The rest is up to you to decide if you want to hang out for longer than 240 seconds.

When and Where:

L.A.  EVENTS 
Wednesday, February 1st (men ages 24-32, women 21-29)
El Guapo Cantina - 7250 Melrose Avenue

Wednesday, February 8th, (women 30-40, men 35-45)
The Bungalow Club - 7174 Melrose Place

***Tuesday, February 14th (men and women 25-35)***
El Guapo Cantina - 7250 Melrose Avenue 

SANTA MONICA EVENTS
Wednesday, February 8th (men and women 25-35)
Wednesday, February 15th (women 30-40, men 35-45)
Busby's - 3110 Santa Monica Blvd.

Tuesday, February 21st (Gay men 21-39)
Wednesday, January 25th 
310 Lounge - 3321 Pico Boulevard

SHERMAN OAKS/STUDIO CITY EVENTS
Tuesday, February 15th (women 30-40, men 35-45)
Tuesday, February 21st (men and women 25-35)
Clear Lounge - 11916 Ventura Blvd, Studio City

Time:
Doors open at 7:00 p.m., HurryDating starts at 7:30 p.m.

Cost:
$37.00 - Includes drink specials!