Single
It's a twist on the classic gift idea with the Mixtape Memory Stick for $15.99 from thinkgeek.com. The USB drive, packaged as an old-school cassette tape, holds 90 minutes' worth of MP3 files. With space to write in track lists, this gadget is a great way to give the gift of music in an old-school way. www.thinkgeek.com
Take a friend to Busboys and Poets for brunch in your PJs. The favorite 14th and V streets establishment is holding a special Valentine's Day brunch from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Take your roommate or best friend and enjoy lounging around and eating their raspberry, heart-shaped pancakes! Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St. NW, (202) 387-7638
It's complicated
Cupcakes from Baked and Wired or Georgetown Cupcake with a Valentine's twist are a tasty treat you both can share, without getting too sappy. Satisfy any palate with their wide selection, topped with heart sprinkles and heart cookies for the holiday. Personalize the gift by decorating the box with a funky design or photos to add a unique touch. Baked and Wired, 1052 Thomas Jefferson St. NW. · Georgetown Cupcake, 3301 M St. NW
In a relationship and beyond
For a creative and delicious twist on the traditional bouquet of flowers, make a bouquet of marshmallows, chocolate-dipped strawberries and real roses. Use our recipe for chocolate-covered strawberries (see our Valentine's Day recipe column on the next page), stick the strawberries and marshmallows on several wooden skewers, and arrange in a vase with real roses. It's beautiful and edible!
Or, go the romantic route with Jasmine Vanilla Aromatherapy Massage Oil. This line from Bath and Body Works smells like sensuality in a bottle. If the massage oil is a little too romance-novel for you, this sexy smell comes in body lotion and candle form for around $16.
See www.bathandbodyworks.com for store locations.
