Valentine’s Skate Date
The Ice Rink
280 Romence Rd., Portage
Feb. 14, 4:30 p.m.
$15 per person (due by Feb. 12)
(269) 329-4522
This private skating event at The Ice Rink in Portage is a memory maker for sure. Hold hands and get close with your special one while enjoying live music and dinner on the ice. This unique evening experience starts with dinner from Grand Traverse Pie Company. The meal is presented by a server on skates for a little entertainment. Following dinner, the rink is reserved for only those registered for this event, so there’s a little privacy: perfect for ogling at one another. The rink will re-open to the public at 6 p.m. so you’ll have to endure the public after that. Skate the night away and win prizes throughout the evening. “It’s a private event that’s something different for your sweetheart,” said Recreation Program Manager Tricia Keala. “Once the full dinner is done, you’re fit with skates.” Cuddle for warmth, argue over who looks cuter in their skates and bother other people to take your photo in numerous stages of schmaltz.
The Art of Abstract Wine Tasting
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
1000 E. Beltline NE, Grand Rapids
Feb. 3 & 10, 6:30-9 p.m.
$65 per person
meijergardens.org, (616) 808-3600
Lovers require wine. Join the charismatic wine connoisseur Allie Merrick for an entertaining and educational evening of wine paired with light, mouth-watering hors d'oeuvres, art and natural beauty at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “Wine in general lends itself to a romantic setting,” said Guest Services Manager Katie Racey. “There’s mood lighting, you get to meet others and Allie takes wine she’s picked and compares them to our different plants and sculptures using characteristics to describe the wine.” This wonderful evening of wine, food and art pairings will enhance your appreciation and encourage you to define wine in your own words. “Guests will have new and multiple perspectives on wine. Last year we compared wines to The American Horse.” Get your mind off your main squeeze long enough to call and make the required reservations.
The Cakabakery
1436 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids
thecakabakery.com, (616) 319-1611
Is your beloved a sugar freak? Whisk your true love off to The Cakabakery and present them with some sweet treats that are “one hundred percent homemade and fresh—which is rare these days,” said Owner Jason Kakabaker. Rare just like your love! Pick from cupcakes, cookies and cakes or share a large cake-a-long, a cake baked in a jar, that’s perfect for two. Go all out and have something custom made for you and your loved one (just remember to order out at least a week). Love is most certainly in the air here, as the shop has hosted a number of weddings inside and in their courtyard. Sweethearts will appreciate the tiny tables for sitting super close and nuzzling or saddling up to the bar to enjoy sweets, coffee and other drinks as a nice dessert spot after a meal.
P.S. Restaurant Terra GR is just a lover’s stroll away.
Inspiring Hands Therapeutic Massage
813 W. South St., Kalamazoo
inspiringhandsmassage.net, (269) 870-6915
The art of wooing means putting your main squeeze at ease. Rejuvenate and relax together with a couples massage. Physical touch is one of the five love languages, so start talking with a visit to Inspiring Hands Therapeutic Massage. It offers a Duet Hot Cocoa Stone Massage that’s “Valentine’s Day inspired and more of an upgrade,” said Crystal Schippers, owner and licensed massage therapist. Imagine therapeutic hands-on techniques along with specialty aromatherapy oil and a cooling eye treatment enhancement. Indulge in a silky cocoa comfort massage balm followed by a deeply relaxing hot stone massage. Take your companion for a day experience to soothe the body and let it set the tone for a great day together. It’s the ultimate stress reliever that’s warm-fuzzies guaranteed.
