Valentine's Day in Newton Abbot: Gifts for the lady in your life

AS NEWTON ABBOT gets ready for Valentine's Day, it's time to think about a gift for your sweetheart. And while you're unlikely to go wrong with the traditional offerings of flowers and chocolates, this is one occasion when a pack of Quality Street and a bunch of chrysanthemums from the garage forecourt simply won't cut it!

Valentine's Day is all about showing that special person just how much you care, so go for the wow factor – the secret is finding out what she would really love to get from you. For example, Valentine's flowers don't have to be roses – if you know she adores lilies, a huge bouquet of scented pink Stargazers is sure to win her heart. And for that special touch, make sure to include a card, love note or poem in your own writing!

Say it with flowers...

Newton Abbot has a great selection of florists who will be happy to chat through your ideas to create something really special. According to villagematter, Albany Florists in Albany Street is 'one of the best flower shops in town' with ' great selection of flowers'. love2play recommends Bouquets in Union Street: 'The Bouquets Florist is one of the most reputable florists in Newton Abbot, the range of flowers available is fantastic, making the right occasion perfect!' Also recommended is Floral Passion in Devon Square – buffer_st says: 'A florist that stocks a wide range of top quality fresh flowers with true passion... with the knowledge and advice of their staff, you're in excellent hands with any flower queries.'

Chocs away...

Has she got a sweet tooth? Impress her with a box of luxury handmade chocolates from Moor Chocolat! in Ashburton. Their signature chocolates are made in Devon by a Swiss chocolatier, and so beautifully wrapped and boxed they'll melt anyone's heart! And if a cake is more to her fancy, check out the cute cupcakes at the Oggy Oggy Pasty Co.

The sweet scent of success

The key to a winning Valentine's gift is to make it personal and romantic – so however much she's into golf or cooking, this is not the time for a new set of clubs or a Magimix! Perfume is another popular gift, and one that's sure to go down well – provided you know her favourite scent (tastes are very individual, so don't be tempted to experiment unless you like to live dangerously!). Austins always has a good range of fragrances, both traditional and modern, so you should find what you're looking for. According to Matt2009, it's a 'Great store, one of the best things about Newton Abbot!'.

Diamonds are a girl's best friend...

Of course the ultimate love token has to be jewellery, and if you're thinking of popping the question this Valentine's Day, you may well be looking for a ring. Both Ham & Huddy in Wolborough Street and Gerry & Co in Courtenay Street offer a huge range of styles to suit all budgets.

We love a romantic story here at Newton Abbot People, so if you propose to your sweetheart this Valentine's and she accepts, do tell us about it!

Happy Valentine's Day!