Hello, loves. Have you missed me? Your man with the golden key to Big D is back, ready once again to share a few insider secrets.

 

  As evidenced by the abundance of red and pink trinkets at every corner store, Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. And, as cupid trains his arrow, so the spotlight shines on anyone looking to make a romantic statement. Yes, all eyes are on you, that most significant other, and your loved one is waiting, hopeful and anticipating, to see how on it you are, how creative you can be, for the big day. So, what is your Valentine plan? You may think this year’s Saturday timeframe means smooth sailing – typical steak dinner accompanied by box of chocolates - but insiders like me know that the restaurant world will be in a tailspin. Most hotspots are already busy on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, so adding a holiday to the mix can mean packed dining rooms and frazzled servers. Now, that doesn’t sound like a recipe for love. Not to worry, though, because I’m here to guide you right past the Valentine velvet rope, into a stylish world of sensual new ideas. For starters, why limit Valentine’s Day to just one day, anyway?  Take your time and fill a few days with memorable moments and you’ll look like a romance rock star. Read on:  

  Special Deliveries: Every Tom, Dick, and Harry is going to have a dozen roses delivered to his lady’s desk. Why not surprise your love, and make her the envy of the office, with a special delivery that goes beyond the basic bloom? What’s her favorite color? Does she like a touch of drama? Your florist will gladly create a very sexy, non-traditional arrangement, with any inspiration you have in mind. Call well in advance, and I’d also recommend having your special surprise delivered early in the week. Follow it with a second, traditional rose arrangement on the Friday before the holiday, to double her pleasure – and your reward.  

  Heavenly Hideaways: I’m a fan of stay-cations for special occasions, and while our city doesn’t lack for lovely luxury hotels, I can recommend a few secluded spots that may not be on your radar. Marriott Solana, Westlake: Located just 20 minutes past DFW Airport, the soft modern interior and bright, bold exterior of this unique hotel were designed by world-renowned Mexico City architect Ricardo Legorreta. Book your backyard vacay here, and you also get access to the state-of-the-art Solana Club, complete with an indoor pool. The Ashton Hotel, Fort Worth: Our neighbor to the west has always been a great place to visit, but Fort Worth’s an even better place to stay a few days in this gem of a hotel. Set in a lovely historical atmosphere, with only 39 rooms, the Ashton offers an intimate experience. Its downtown location also offers easy access to restaurants, night spots, museums, and more. The Belmont Hotel, Dallas: Last but not least, if you enjoy crossing the bridge for drinks and dinner in Oak Cliff, take your night out to the next level with a stay at the Belmont. This hot little number of a hotel will allow you to live the boho life of the O.C. for a bit, complete with gallery hopping and creative dining. Word to the wise: ask for the room with the outdoor hot tub.  

  Deal Sealers:    So, you have your blooms en route and maybe even a room for the weekend. Now it’s time to add a little something something to your plan to take it – and your love – over the moon. If your lady hearts fashion, take her Valentine’s Day to a haute new level with the help of Dallas’ enviable shopping scene. Call her favorite boutique and ask for the manager or personal shopper. Chances are, they can pull together a complete outfit based on your girl’s individual style, with a quick peek at her Facebook or Instagram page. Boxed and bow’d, this is one stylish gift she’ll not see coming. Also customizable are this holiday’s traditional sweet treats. Sprinkles, for example, can decorate their delectable cakes with custom initials or a logo, with advanced notice. Have them delivered to her desk, and she’ll be delighted. And to really steal the show, would your lover enjoy a personal serenade? Why not hire a singer to deliver one of her favorite songs, along with the aforementioned flowers and sweets? Contact GigMasters, my go-to spot for some of Dallas’ most incredible voices. Finally, though grand gestures are great, it’s often the tiny touches that make the biggest impact. Whether you booked a room, or you’re staying in for the night, set the scene and set it right (here’s where the roses come in). Run by your local supermarket, and pick up a candle in a subtle scent and a simple rose bouquet. In the moments before you retire to the chambre à coucher, light the candle and scatter petals across the bed. You’re welcome.   Jackson is the President of FLUENT, a premier luxury lifestyle management company based in Dallas. As the past Corporate Concierge for Barneys New York, Jackson is recognized as one of the most respected concierges in all of Dallas. From the social and cultural scenes, to dining and entertainment, this Dallasite truly has a finger on the pulse of his city. For more on Jackson, visit our Contributors Page.