Valentine’s Day dates are seemingly planned in advanced or else rushed at the last minute.
Bridget Mulcahy, a Web producer at Rosslyn-based Politico, has had her plans in place for nearly a week. She and her boyfriend Blake will spend their very first Valentine’s night ice skating and eating dinner.
“I am very selfish,” Mulcahy said with a giggle. “He does not know how to ice skate.”
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Mulcahy met her beau at a bar and, over the subsequent conversation, they clicked. A week later he called.
Have you made plans? If you’re stuck, here's a few ideas to get you started:
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Looking for a free show? Brother-and-sister-owned IOTA Club & Café in Claredon will host DJ Sam Snow. The bar will have Southern Tier Choklat Imperial Stout on tap. The event is open to singles, couples and herds. “We are for the people,” said co-owner Jane Negrey Inge. “Love is big, that’s all I can say.” Entrees are available starting at $14 and the show will run from 7 to 10 p.m.
If you’re in the mood for some local, handmade treats, Larry’s Homemade in Claredon has chocolate-covered strawberries for 99 cents. Owner Yasser Mohamed suggested pre-ordering to ensure he has enough in stock. Larry's produces roughly 300 to 500 strawberries annually for the day of love. Larry’s Homemade also offers red velvet and coconut rosewater-infused ice cream, along with dairy-free options.
Cheesetique in Shirlington Village is promoting a $35-for-two special to commemorate the holiday. Couples or friends can enjoy two glasses of house wine, a four-board compilation of their chosen charcuterie and cheese options and a slice of chocolate cheesecake to share. Customers "are already happy coming in and I like to make them happier whether that’s with service or food," said Andrea Rivera, Shirlington front house manager.
Flowers are almost always safe for Valentine’s, especially if it is a last-minute gift. "All those guys who waited and waited come and order roses," said Jean Vasconcellos, owner of Wilson Florist of Rosslyn. “It forms a long line the store… We really like pre-orders, but whether it’s last minute, we appreciate business." Single stem roses start at $6 and bouquets of roses at $75. Wilson Florist also makes deliveries.
Nahid Spa and Salon in the Crystal City Shops offers a special where an advance booking gets you a $10 gift card on all services over $50.
Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse will host wine, comedy and “The Princess Bride” movie night for $8. The venue will host three different showings of the film to give more people a chance to see the cult classic.
Arlington is home to a wide variety of bars, restaurants, spas and specialty shops. If all else fails, take a stroll down one of the streets and discover somewhere new to make memories.
