Are you planning to give a gift of flowers to your sweetie for Valentine's Day this year?  Usually, a bouquet of flowers is a slam-dunk gift.    But that doesn't mean it has to be the standard dozen long-stemmed red roses.  Think outside the bouquet!

Try a mixed bunch of flowers rather than all those roses.  It keeps costs down and adds originality.  Order a bouquet in your loved one's favorite colors.  Tulips and hyacinths also make lovely bouquets.  Mix in a few roses with a large bunch of other flowers.

Save on delivery fees:  in-person delivery is way more romantic.

Presentation is everything:  add a beautiful vase that you can fill with flowers for each special occasion.  Gift baskets are another great way to present flowers.

If your sweetheart is allergic to flowers, you can still go with a floral theme:  a picture frame with a floral trim with a great photo of the two of you would make a great gift.

Also, keep in mind these florist's secrets to making those flowers last a long, long time:

  • Change the water every 2 to 3 days.
  • Each time you change the water, trim the stems on an angle.
  • Keep your flowers away from direct sunlight, heat, or heavy drafts.
  • Keep the foliage out of the water.
  • Use the preservative packet that came with the flowers.

Have a very happy Valentine's Day!