Valentine's Day Guide

Scene

Events to spice up Valentine's

Valentine's Day was established in the fifth century to honor the saint of the same name, who legend claims was executed for performing marriages at a time when they were illegal.

First love, lasting love

All they remember is that they were on an elevator. But what do the details matter now?

When words fail, try movies

This Valentine's Day, don't say it with flowers and candy. You might be misunderstood.

Chocolate is good in small amounts

If you really love your Valentine, don't give her an enormous box of fancy candies. The most thoughtful gift may be a small - make that 1 ounce - piece of dark chocolate, says Lawrence Cheskin, associate professor of medicine and human nutrition at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and director of the Johns Hopkins Weight Management Center.

Taste

Filet mignon can be the heart of romantic meal

In O. Henry's stories of striving in turn-of-the-century New York, known collectively as The Four Million, filet mignon has a recurring role as a symbol of love and momentary luxury.

Valentine souffles

If you buy the idea that passion is as fleeting as it is exhilarating, souffle is your Valentine's Day dessert.

Maryann James: Love it or hate it, Feb. 14 is a day of great expectations

I despise Valentine's Day, and yet I end up celebrating it: The rampant commercialism works.

Go Entertain

Caramel is at the heart of cake

A bona fide chocoholic, I adore Valentine's Day, when I can indulge in my favorite ingredient without guilt. When February rolls around, I start thinking about what chocolate confection to prepare.

Taste

Wines that couples could fall in love with on Valentine's

You don't want to drink alone, especially on Valentine's Day. So I set out to find some wines that couples could cozy up to, even if they have differing tastes.

Valentine's Day escapes

If you're planning a romantic getaway with your Valentine, here are a few sweet deals.