The anxiety of creating the perfect Valentine’s Day for your mate or attempting to find a way to enjoy this holiday when you are single has turned the focus of Valentine’s Day from love and romance to apprehension, anxiety and financial insecurity.

However, this does not have to be the case. Milwaukee offers an overabundance of ideas and opportunities for both singles and couples, to make this the best Valentine’s Day yet.

Couples staying in

Looking to spend some quality time together? Cook a meal together, spread a blanket on the floor, bust out the Barry White and have an indoor picnic.

Each person should rent a movie you think the other might enjoy. Pop some popcorn, turn the lights down low and enjoy a night of cuddling and relaxation.

Feeling selfless? Offer to baby-sit with your other half for family and friends with children. Believe me, they could use the break and the gesture will not be forgotten.

Couples going out

Is your sweetie a basketball fan? Buy tickets for two to the Seattle Supersonics-Milwaukee Bucks game, which kicks off at 7 p.m. on Feb. 14 at the Bradley Center.

Whether you are new to Milwaukee or have lived here all of your life, you will see Milwaukee in a new light — and impress your special someone — with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of downtown Milwaukee. Call early; these romantic rides are especially popular during the holidays! Contact Milwaukee Coach and Carriage at 272-6873.

Singles staying in

Co-host a dinner party for you and your other single friends. Romance is in the air, so who knows where it might lead or who you might meet.

Have a completely self-indulgent day. Watch that movie you have been dying to see, take a hot bath and order in Chinese. Make the day completely yours and enjoy every minute of it.

Singles going out

If you’re 21 or older, head to Mo’s Irish Pub for Single’s Night. With $2 glasses of champagne, an extended happy hour, extra drink specials, dating games and a dance off, you will be sure to have a great night out with friends or solo.

Busy on Valentine’s Day? Step out a couple nights later to the “Nuts and Bolts and Cheesy Valentines Party” at Cans Bar and Canteen on Thursday, Feb. 16. If the $1 Miller drinks don’t lure you in, Cans is offering prizes for finding the individual whose bolt matches your nut.

For the recently single, catch a movie or play with some friends; the Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s production of “Bad Dates” is an entertaining off-Broadway hit revolving around one woman’s dive back into the world of dating, a perfect inspiration for those about to take the plunge back into the world of romance.

This Valentine’s Day, remember this holiday is a celebration of love: self-love, romantic adoration, affection for family and friends. While at times unavoidable, let’s limit the stress, anxiety and concern often associated with this holiday. Whether single or dating, going out or staying in, remember to commemorate the Valentine’s Day holiday with love.

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