Courtesy of Google Images

It won’t sound romantic, hell it may even sound desperately pathetic, but the minute I walked by Holt Renfrew’s wall-to-wall Valentines decorations, I remembered why it’s my favourite holiday of the year. Celebrating love is something we can all take part in – single, attached, married, dating, it’s not just about candy and chocolates. It’s about taking the time to show someone how much they mean to you, and with a few tips from Mushy Pony, you’ll have more than enough ways to do so.

1. Eat My Words Cupcakes.
Our favourite cupcake shop is doing a special for Valentines this year and we know you’ll squeal when you feast your eyes on these adorable treats. What’s even better is they’re all for a good cause, the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

Courtesy of Eat My Words

2. SoMA Chocolates.
Okay, so maybe chocolate plays a small role. Head over to the distillery district for Toronto’s finest and try their Mayan Hot Chocolate while you wait for your order. Nothing makes Valentines sweeter than a little spice.

Courtesy of Google Images

3. A Customized Greeting card.
Whether you know some tricks in Photoshop, or just know how to cut and paste with construction paper, get your creative juices flowing for a personal and touching gift. Check out our friend Danielle Hession for inspiration, or head over to Buzzy B’s Stamp Shop for supplies.

Courtesy of Danielle Hession

4. Champers and Oysters.
Before you skip ahead due to pricing issues, keep in mind that this can be done on a budget. (See our article on how here). St. Lawrence Market, Rodney’s, whichever your preference – this ultimate romantic gesture will not go unnoticed.

Courtesy of Google

5. Come As You Are.
As far as sex shops go, this is Toronto’s hottest (located on Queen West, naturally). Specializing in games, toys, and even furniture to better your lust life. They even have a Love Bumper Lil’ Pony for maximum mushiness. Perfect for those looking for a raunchy V-Day at the ranch.

Courtesy of Google Images

6. Raclette by an Open Fire.
With snowmaggedon upon us, we might find ourselves stuck indoors on this icy day. To prepare, head to the Cheese Boutique (or Leslieville Cheese Market) to stock up on your favourites and melt your love’s heart with ooey, gooey, melted goodness. Not sure on how to start a fire? Check out instructions here.

Courtesy of Google Images

7. Go see Barrymore at the Elgin Theatre.
One of my favourite Canadian actors, Christopher Plummer (Sound of Music), is performing in a two-man show at the Elgin Theatre from now until March 9th. It’s based on the life of John Barrymore of the U.S. acting dynasty. Tickets can be purchased here.

Courtesy of Google Images

8. The Narwhal Boutique.
There was something so sexy about Bill Compton when he bought Sookie a dress to wear for their dinner together. Call me old-fashioned, but a man who knows what he likes is okay in my books! Head to the hottest and highly controversial fashion store, Narwhal, for some gift ideas (both his and hers) because everything in there is a winner.

Courtesy of Google Images

At the end of the day, you above anyone else know what your significant other would like. You don’t need to be asking us. But if we can provide one tip, use this day as a golden opportunity to express how you feel. Whether you’re taking someone out on a first date, or celebrating many years together, this is the one day to open up and not feel like you’re being too mushy.

– Emma Farquharson.

And now, a message from the Queen Cowgirl herself, Dolly Parton.

Courtesy of the National Post

The National Post’s Nathalie Atkinson shared with us her favourite Valentine’s Day gifts today in the paper. One of them is our friends over at Aromachology who we had the chance to interview just over a month ago. The personalized fragrance company is hosting a pop-up store at The Bay in Yorkdale, so you can sample scents together leading up to the big day. To see the Cowgirl’s Valentine’s picks, read our article here.
XoXo
– The Cowgirls.