Valentine's Day--What Are You Giving Your Boo?

How to buy the right gift.by Lucy Pichardo.Lovers everywhere anticipate February 14^th. You either love or hate Valentine's Day. For most who celebrate, only one thing matters. "Gifts are important,” says Liliana Campoverde, a CCNY student. “I'd be devastated to not receive something on Valentine’s Day."According to a recent survey, most Americans understand the importance of Valentine’s Day gift-giving. The National Trade Federation reports that the average person celebrating the holiday will spend $126.03, up 8.5 percent over last year.What do we give? According to the survey, here’s what we buy and how much we spend:Candy: 50 percent, $1.5 billionFlowers: 36 percent, $1.8 billionAn evening out: 35 percent, $3.5 billionJewelry: 19 percent, 4.1 billionCards: 13 percent, $1.1 billionTo make sure you make the right gift choices, follow these tips:Be creative with flowers. Regular long stemmed red roses are boring, cliché and expensive. Get your partner an arrangement of her or his favorite flowers instead. Or create a bouquet that includes options like gerber daisies or tulips A non-traditional choice can score you major points.Everybody likes candy—so go with it. Valentine’s Day is the fourth top-selling candy holiday, behind Halloween, Easter and Christmas. Buy your love a box of chocolates for a treat both of you can enjoy.Make a romantic dinner. Of course you can go out, but if money’s tight—and you’re up to the challenge--a homemade dinner is a fabulous way to surprise your honey. A candle-lit dinner for two at home is super romantic, and economical.Out of time and need a last-minute gift? Make a card using photographs and mementos and write a heartfelt message inside. It’s a nice, creative way to add the personal touch.Even those who prefer gifts understand that love extends beyond Valentine's Day. It’s important to be loving all time. Says Campoverde, “It’s just one day of the year.”