Lemont Retailers Offer Plenty of Gift Ideas for Valentine's Day

A word to the wise this Valentine’s Day: bigger doesn’t always mean better.

“A bouquet doesn’t have to be huge,” said Viviana Grasso of , a boutique-style flower shop located at 435 Talcott Ave. “Something small but breathtaking — a bouquet of our tulips wrapped in beautiful raspberry tissue paper — will leave a lasting impression more than the standard rose bouquet.”

For shop owners like Grasso, Valentine’s Day rivals Mother’s Day as one of the busiest retail times of year. Across town, Irene Sukvietis, of , 1138 B State St., said she has prepared for Monday's holiday by stocking her store with an array of gift options.

“We’re preparing for the big boom,” Sukvietis said. “Mostly of course we have flowers, but we also have balloons, teddy bears and candy.”

While it’s no surprise red roses are the norm, Sukvietis said bouquets of Gerbera daisies, lilies and even orchids are also popular requests. And for those on a budget, Sukvietis can put together less costly arrangements.

“Roses are expensive, so more and more people are buying mixed bouquets which still have some roses in them,” she said.

Those who are notorious for waiting until the last minute to buy flowers can also pick up one of Sukvietis’ already-made “grab and go bouquets” of roses or other assorted flowers. Orders can also be made online at www.alwayswithflowers.com.

If posies aren’t your sweetheart’s gig, consider having Grasso make up a gift basket made with Petal Play Design’s luxury soaps, fragrances, body butters, lotions and candles.

“We try to carry different things that make a person feel special,” Grasso said. “That’s our philosophy. Sometimes the small but well-thought out (gift) means so much more than the large and ordinary.”

For more gift ideas, visit www.petalplaydesign.com.

Considering treating your Valentine to a night on the town?

For dinner, head over to , 1015 S. State St. An employee said the restaurant, as is tradition, will be serving heart-shaped pizzas all day.

Complete the evening with a bottle of wine from , 439 Talcott Ave. The shop also carries a large selection of beer, spirits and cigars. Employee Christina Banyte suggests a sweeter drink for cupid’s holiday, such as the Truffle Merlot, which she describes as “Merlot with a hint of chocolate,” or a sangria-infused vodka.

“It’s pink in color with a pair of red lips on the label,” Banyte said. “That should go over well on Valentine’s Day.”

Don't forget to check out for five great Valentine's Day date restaurants.