Valentines with a twist

With a little thought, this V-Day can be more than a bouquet and a box of candy

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It’s time once again for the usual hearts and flowers of Valentine’s Day. But what if you’re tired of hearts and your sweetie is allergic to flowers? What’s a lover to do?

Fortunately, there are places in Baldwin that can help make this an unforgettable V-Day.

Baldwin’s own head shop offers a lot more than just blowpipes and smoking accessories, said owner Kim Tasik, who devoted a section of the store to Valentine’s Day items. Among them are candles, incense, crystals and a wide variety of hand blown glass art. But, let’s face it, it’s the blowpipes that are the big draw, and if your Valentine is a smoker, the rose-shaped ones are perfect for the big day. Daze, 572-574 Sunrise Hwy.; 516-442-4940.

If your lover loves chocolate, consider a chocolate facial or mani-pedi. At Spa Vie, you can buy a gift certificate worth 10 percent off chocolate treatments, said owner Linda Dupuis. “They’re good for hydration,” Dupuis said. “It’s a way to indulge in chocolate without the calories.” SpaVie, 2801 Milburn Ave.; 516-208-8008.

Can’t wait for the big day? Baldwin’s own coffeehouse, Sweet & Savory, is hosting a pre-Valentine’s event: A Honeymooner’s Paint & Sip.

The Feb. 12 event is an effort to “invite couples out to have a date night but have an activity, too,” said owner Antoinette Burrows-Porter. Artist Meryl Cittadino of Baldwin will guide couples through an interactive session of painting on canvas. The subject of the paintings will be a surprise. Cost is $55 per person and Valentine’s treats, including cheese, chocolate and coffee, will be served, or bring your own bottle of wine. Reservations. Sweet & Savory, 821 Merrick Rd.; 516-543-4900.

Need a little more activity? Try bowling. To take the sting out of those gutter balls, or maybe to promote them, Baldwin Bowl offers a Valentine special cocktail: the $20 love potion fish bowl — a vodka-rum concoction — is made for couples to share. For those who can’t get a sitter, manager Richard Shasho said, the center is having a Valentine’s family special of pizza, a pitcher of soda and 90 minutes of bowling for up to six people from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Feb. 14. Baldwin Bowl, 2407 Grand Ave.; 516-223-8980.

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