Watch the video below to find out, and let us know if you’d be Jim’s Valentine this year!

To discover the perfect blend of talented actors — that know how to utilize both physical and verbal comedy, witty dialogue, entertaining story-line, and most of all chemistry; can seem like an insurmountable challenge.

So, just in time for Valentine’s Day I’m up for the challenge of pulling together the top 10 romantic comedies of all time!

Make a note that this list consists only of romantic comedies. Fan favorites like Love Jones and The Notebook fall under the “romantic drama” category and are not included on this list.

10. Love Actually

British writer and director Richard Curtis makes his first appearance on my list for the 2003 comedy Love Actually. This festive holiday film features ten different stories with overlapping characters as they navigate life and love five weeks before Christmas. The film features an all-star British cast including Colin Firth, Bill Nighy, Emma Thompson, Liam Neeson, Alan Rickman, Keira Knightley, and long-time collaborator Hugh Grant.

9. Annie Hall

American romantic comedy, Annie Hall, is a thought-provoking character study about the nature of love. Co-written and directed by Woody Allen, the film was released in 1977 and follows Alvy Singer (Allen), a comedian trying to understand why his relationship with his ex-girlfriend, Annie Hall (Diane Keaton) didn’t work out. Overflowing with richly clever dialogue against a sweeping canvas of New York City, Annie Hall won the 1978 Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Actress.

8. Four Weddings and a Funeral

This hilarious British romantic comedy features Hugh Grant as Charles, a man who meets the woman of his dreams at a wedding. He subsequently reunites with her over several weddings and a funeral. Released in 1994, Four Weddings and a Funeral, is the first of several popular films written by screenwriter Richard Curtis. Clever writing and a delightfully eccentric group of friends makes this adventurous comedy and instant romantic classic.

7. Coming to America

This 1988 comedy is so funny that at times you forget that at the core of this side-splitting adventure is a very simple love story — a man leaves his home in search of a bride. When Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy) abandons his homeland of Zamunda for Queens, New York, he is swept away to a world of “golden arcs”, substandard living, greasy-haired snobs, and eventually love. Coming to America features Arsenio Hall, James Earl Jones, John Amos, Eriq La Salle, and an unforgettable appearance by Samuel L. Jackson. Murphy and Hall also play a number of different unforgettable roles in the film.

6. Sleepless in Seattle

In 1993 the success of this Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan vehicle swept the country. Directed and co-written by the late Nora Ephron, Sleepless in Seattle was inspired by the 1957 film An Affair to Remember. Garnering two Academy Award nominations, Sleepless in Seattle, was nominated for two Academy Awards.

5. Pretty Woman

Julia Roberts emerging in a beautiful red dress; Richard Gere quickly closing the jewelry box causing her to radiate with laughter; Roberts telling the sales girls that it was a “big mistake” turning her away on her previous visit. Pretty Woman is celebrated for its many iconic moments. Lauded as one of the most successful films in the romantic comedy genre, the 1990 release catapulted a young Julia Roberts into international stardom.

4. Notting Hill

Named after the quaint English town that it is set in, Notting Hill is a delicious 1999 British romantic comedy starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. Penned by Four Weddings and a Funeral screenwriter Richard Curtis, the film follows Hugh Grant’s character, Will Thacker. An ordinary travel bookshop owner, Will embarks on a relationship with Hollywood star, Anna Scott, played by Julia Roberts. The dialogue is witty, the plot adorable, and like the mesmerizing supporting cast that Curtis created for Funeral, Notting Hill also features a lively hodge-podge of secondary characters.

3. My Best Friend’s Wedding

Julia Roberts running at top speed behind Dermot Mulroney; singing a Deon Warwick hit in a crowded restaurant; and Cameron Diaz belting out terrible karaoke. These are just a few of the finer moments in the 1997 comedy My Best Friend’s Wedding. Both critically and commercially successful, this is the perfect date movie or flick to check out with girlfriends. The timeless story easily makes it a romantic comedy classic.

2. You’ve Got Mail

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan found love again in 1998’s You’ve Got Mail. The Sleepless in Seattle alumni were in familiar hands under the direction of Nora Ephron (Sleepless in Seattle, When Harry Met Sally). An updated adaptation of 1940’s The Shop Around the Corner, You’ve Got Mail utilizes the phenomenon of on-line social networking. Brilliantly composed by Nora and her sister Delia Ephron (The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants) one of my favorite pieces of dialogue occurs when Hanks goes to visit Ryan while she’s sick. Apologizing for putting her out of business he says, “It wasn’t personal.” Displeased by his comment she responds “…What is that supposed to mean? I am so sick of that. All that means is that it wasn’t personal to you. But it was personal to me. It’s personal to a lot of people. What is so wrong with being personal anyway? …Whatever else anything is, it ought to begin by being personal.”

1. When Harry Met Sally

This is absolutely my favorite romantic comedy of all time. With brilliant one-liners like “I’ll have what she’s having” and coining such concepts as “high maintenance” and “low maintenance” girlfriends. Writer Nora Ephron, director Rob Reiner, along with actors Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan set the bar high when they teamed up for When Harry Met Sally. Released in 1989 to critical acclaim and huge box office success, this romantic tale asks the question that men and women are still trying to answer today, “Can men and women really are just friends?”

Did I miss your favorite? Let me know below!

There were several close calls to our top 10 list. Here are a few of the noteworthy contenders…

Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)

Roman Holiday (1953)

Waitress (2007)

Jerry Maguire (1996)

Friends With Benefits (2011)

He’s Just Not That into You (2009)

Bridget Jone’s Diary (2001)

The Best Man (1999)

Many people show their appreciation in the form of expensive jewelry, boxed chocolates, red roses, and/or treating their loved one to a romantic dinner.

Love is in the air…but wait, it’s easy to get sucked in to the overly-hyped love holiday better known as Valentine’s Day — which by the way raked in $17.6 billion in sales last year.

In truth, far too many people spend the days leading up to Valentine’s Day in a complete frenzy. They stress about creating the perfect setting and purchasing the perfect gift — all in an attempt to “prove” their love. Does that make sense?

While it’s nice to know that there is one day per year that people are supposed to show their love and affection, shouldn’t everyday be a less expensive version of Valentine’s Day?

Love Is All About The Little Things

Dear Men,

Most women do not need you to prove your love by buying her expensive jewelery or lavish gifts, but rather it’s the little things that you do that make her feel loved. Things such as:

• • Sending her a sweet text message or calling her, just to let her know that you were thinking about her
• • Telling her that you love her
• • Hugging her, holding her, kissing her, and just being there for her
  • Listening to her and acknowledging her (yes, you actually need to do this, she knows when you aren’t really listening to what she has to say)
  • Making time for her (Sure, you need your guy time, but she needs time with her guy too…that’s you)
  • Making her feel special, in any way possible
  • Going out of your way to do something nice for her, just because you wanted to

Forever yours,

Women

Dear Women,

Most men do not really care about Valentine’s Day, nor do we care about what you buy us to show “how much” you love us.  BUT, we will do just about anything to make sure that you are not disappointed on Valentine’s Day. Take that for what it’s worth, and reward us on Valentine’s Day for our efforts.

Sincerely,

Men

-Nichole Jaworski, CBS Charlotte

Victorian-era Valentine’s Day was shared between lovers with romantic paper sentiments adorned with frills, lace, cupids, gloves, bluebirds and hearts. It was during that time that food, expressly chocolates sold in elaborately decorated boxes, became popularly associated with this holiday. Today, Feb. 14 is celebrated by family members with cookie baking, crafts and special meals. Friends see it as a non-romantic occasion for celebration during the doldrums of winter. Begin a family tradition, gather the friends or enjoy a lovers’ night out at one of these five Charlotte-area locations.

Valentine’s Day (Credit, Catherine Lash)

Coastal Restaurant & Bar
Hilton Charlotte Center City
222 E 3rd St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 377-1500
www.hilton.com

Price: $90 per couple with complimentary bottle of champagne/$45 per person

Enjoy a romantic dinner for two or spend a few hours with a group of friends over good food and conversation at the Coastal Restaurant & Bar. It’s located at College and East Third streets in uptown Charlotte. The bar features a new lighting and design package, while the dining is open air on the plaza level with a coastal, neutral-colored theme. New Zealand rack of lamb is being shipped in for this special night. The menu includes seared scallop red beet puree with toasted pine nuts and strawberry ambrosia crepe with champagne pearls, nepitella mint and blooms. So, call in early for reservations. Dress is casual, and all ages typically frequent this establishment.

Related: Best Places To Get A Hot Toddy In Charlotte

 

Skinnyz (Credit, Catherine Lash)

Skinnyz Bar & Grille
15060 Idlewild Rd.
Matthews, NC 28104
(704) 893-2157
www.skinnyz.com

Price: $24 per person/$42 for two

Everything pink, purple, red and white will dominate the tables and bar tops. Skinnyz owner Jennifer Polvere says it will be a warm, inviting, fun, light-hearted time where folks feel comfortable joining in solo, with someone special or a group of friends. Being a Gulf Coast transplant, she will glitterize this casual, beachy restaurant with jewels, rose petals, beads, lace, confetti and candles. The menu includes a Cupid’z Seafood Platter, salad greens, a cup of lobster bisque or potato bacon soap, champagne or coffee and a very delightful dessert. Solo singer and accoustic guitar player Tony Fisher will perform songs well-known and loved, without leaving out the mushy ones. Enjoy an evening of upbeat music without feeling like having to slow dance with a bar stool. While dinner is being served on elegant table linens and white china plates, Jennifer will be perched on a bar stool, eating Godiva chocolates and writing out valentines to her customers. On the back will be a special note, like enjoy a free glass of wine or the appetizer is on me. Don’t be surprised to see her in a gaudy red, pink, purple and pearly-beige outfit and accessories – looking like a Sunday-dressed Victorian bag lady!

Related: 10 Best Charlotte Foodies To Follow On Twitter

Cafe 157 (Credit, Catherine Lash)

Cafe 157
157 N Trade St.
Matthews, NC 28105
(704) 844-8686
www.cafe157.com

Price: $34.95 per person

In the historic district of downtown Matthews, southeast Charlotte, across the street from the year-round community farmer’s market is Cafe 157. The little sign on the quaint lamppost in front says American bistro, however, European influences abound. Food and wine aficionado owner George Poriotis hails from Athens, Greece. Talking about his love for this particular subject, he mentions his mother as being a wonderful cook. The cafe chef is Moh Bantaleb. Growing up in France, he received his early education in Paris. After coming to America, he served as executive chef to NASCAR driver’s Dale Earnhardt Corporation. The Valentine’s Day special will offer a choice of lobster or filet mignon. The filet will feature shiitake mushrooms and a bordeaux sauce. The 10 oz. main lobster tail will be served with a safron sauce. Asparagus, potato cake or potato gratin will accompany the main entree. Dessert will include a chocolate mousse with strawberries, cheese cake, creme brulee, made with the madagascar vanilla bean or a chocolate mousse cake. Details are important — from the food presentation to the back kitchen cleanliness. Finish a romantic evening with coffee, cocktails or wine. Poriotis says he would love to see the men in a dinner jacket and the women well-dressed!

(credit: Thinkstock)

Stretch your creativity – and show you care – this Valentine’s Day by thinking outside of the box. A gift chosen with the individual in mind means much more than candy, flowers or jewelry grabbed at the last minute. Here are a few suggestions to jump-start your Valentine shopping at places where you’ll find unique, locally made items to please any taste.

Candles at Boulevard credit= Renee Wright

The Boulevard At South End
1440 S Tryon St. #100
Charlotte, NC 28203
(980) 219-7526
www.blvdatsouthend.com

Existing at the intersection of art, décor, fashion and ecology, the Boulevard stocks locally-sourced objects created by community artisans. Many of the offerings, which range from clothing, jewelry and accessories to furniture and home décor, are created from repurposed materials. The four owners select their stock with a discerning eye while encouraging local talent. There are gifts here for everyone, including man cave décor like candles in repurposed beer bottles and lights made from liquor bottles that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Related: Best Giftshops In Charlotte

Button bouquet at SoBo Loft (Credit, Renee Wright)

SoBo Loft
1820 South Blvd., Suite 200
Charlotte, NC
(704) 333-3422
www.soboloft.com

If steampunk is your favorite dress-up fantasy, shop at this second story boutique, next to the Pewter Rose, for accessories sure to bring out the Sherlock in you and your loved one. Vintage keys, watches and charms given fresh life by local artisans make unique fashion statements. The array of gifts spins through bouquets of antique buttons, doorknob bottle stoppers, luxury candles and much more. Mojo guitar picks, crafted from silver quarters and other coins, make perfect gifts for that special Mr. Somebody.

(credit: Thinkstock)

Ah, Valentine’s Day! A holiday for hearts. A romantic romp. A day of delicious desires fulfilled. There are many joyous holidays throughout the course of a year but none strum the heartstrings quite like Valentine’s Day. If you are looking for ideas to celebrate the occasion of love, look no further. Here are some great ideas for Valentines Day activities in and around the Queen City.

(credit: Thinkstock)

Don’t have a big date for Valentine’s? Not to worry. The night doesn’t have to be a washout. Several clubs around Charlotte host parties on February 14th where you can celebrate your independence, have a great evening and even raise some money for a worthy cause.

Valentine’s Day can be stigmatized as a commercial holiday meant to help sell cards, flowers and candy. However, it’s interesting to know that the tradition of Valentine’s Day has vestiges that date back centuries before Christ and takes on various forms all over the world. While the notion of expressing one’s love on Valentine’s Day is basically the same, different countries have their own traditions for this beloved holiday.

Italy
 

Photo Credit Thinkstock.com

Italy has a long history when it comes to Valentine’s Day traditions, celebrating it as a Spring Festival. Couples would spend the day surrounded by the beauty of springtime in natural settings like tree arbors or ornamental gardens. Their time was spent listening to music, reading poetry or strolling through the garden. 

Another tradition in Italy’s Valentine’s Day history was the notion that the first man a girl sees on Valentine’s Day would be the man (or look like the man) she would marry within a year. Unmarried girls would wake up extra early to sit by their window to look for men who walked by. 

While the candy tradition in the United States usually consists of some sort of heart-shaped box of assorted candies, the traditional candy gift for Valentine’s Day in Italy is a chocolate-covered hazelnut called a Baci Perugina. The candy is accompanied with a small piece of paper that contains romantic poems in four different languages.

South Korea

Photo Credit JUNG YEON-JE/AFP/Getty Images

Although the traditional Valentine’s Day is celebrated on Feb. 14, South Korea celebrates similar days of love on the 14th of every month. Each monthly celebration has its own significance and traditions depending on the corresponding holiday. 

The actual Valentine’s Day holiday tradition is meant for only women to be the givers of chocolate to their significant other and the following month it’s the men’s turn. March 14 is named White Day and men are meant to give their female counterpart a non-chocolate candy. April 14 is marked as Black Day and is geared towards those who are not in a relationship. The tradition for Black Day is for single people to mourn their single lives, hence the name of the holiday. Single people are supposed to eat jajangmyeon noodles, which are black in color, on April 14. While the tradition of women giving chocolate to their partners on Valentine’s Day is a widespread tradition in Eastern Asian countries, South Korea takes the tradition a step further than other countries with a bigger amount of chocolate given.

Great Britain

Photo Credit Mark Large - WPA Pool/Getty Images

 
Britain and Italy have a few similarities in their Valentine’s Day traditions: Both had similar stories about how the first man a woman saw on Valentine’s Day morning will be the one they will marry. However, Britain also has traditions all its own. 

While many countries’ citizens deliver handwritten notes and poems to their significant others on Valentine’s Day, paper Valentine’s were so popular in England during the 19th Century that they gave way to the production of mass-produced greeting cards we see today. In earlier times, a tradition for women the night before Valentine’s Day was to secure four bay leaves to each corner of their pillow before sleeping and to eat hard boiled eggs with salt while removing the yokes. This tradition was meant to provoke dreams of their future husbands on Valentine’s Day eve. Women would also write names on pieces of paper wrapped in clay balls to be dropped into water and the ball that rose to the surface first would be their future husband.

Denmark

Photo Credit Matt Cardy/Getty Images

People of Denmark referred to Valentine’s Day cards as “lover’s cards” and they were once made from transparent material that reflected a picture of a lover bestowing a gift to his or her significant other when it was held up to the light. Instead of the red roses many Americans associate with Valentine’s Day, Danish people give white flowers that they call “snowdrops.” People used to give pressed white flowers to their Valentines, but these days they have switched to bouquets. While love poems and romantic notes are given on Valentine’s Day, the Danish people also write unsigned, funny poems on neatly cut paper called “gaekkebrev.” If the girl is able to guess who sent it, she will receive an Easter Egg later in the year. Denmark takes its Valentine’s Day holiday pretty seriously and many people tend to take off work or book parties to celebrate this love-filled holiday.

France

Photo Credit FRED DUFOUR/AFP/Getty Images

 
France is often referred to as the most romantic place in the world but the country’s older Valentine’s Day traditions are anything but lovey-dovey. In the past, the French custom called “drawing for” or “a lottery of love” would gather single people in houses facing opposite one another and make them call out the name of their hopeful partner through the window. Women who were jilted by their hopeful Valentine would gather to burn the images of the ungrateful lovers in huge bonfires. The bonfire events would turn pretty ugly, with women yelling and hurling abuses into the fire. Because the ritual would turn into an ugly event filled with ridicule, the French government eventually banned this practice. The St. Valentin Village located in Indre has held a festival since the 1960s to celebrate Valentine’s Day every year from February 12th to the 14th.

Sara Lugardo is a Korean American who thrives in writing about Asian community news in Chicago. She has a Bachelor’s in Communication and is currently working on her Master’s. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

For fresh couples or even those who have gotten past the seven year itch, an important part of staying in love is spending time together, doing things you both enjoy. The activities are limitless; you might just need a few ideas to spark your imagination. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here is a short list of great couples’ activities that you can do year-round. 

Dining Together

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Become your own restaurant of the month club. Explore new dining-out ideas and pick the ones that sound most interesting to both of you, then make a reservation and get ready to have a night on the town. Stick to the same day every month to ensure you will always have time to dine together. This is a great opportunity to explore out-of-the-way places or new types of cuisine you’ve always been curious about but never tried. Build in a few romantic nights and feel free to embarrass other diners by making out shamelessly at the table.

Educate With Love

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Do both of you have an interest in do-it-yourself household projects or photography? Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to make sushi, wood working or Italian. Adult-education classes represent a great way for the two of you to expand your horizons and knowledge base together, plus acquire a practical skill of value. Make sure to choose an interest you both share and find ways of enjoying it outside of class, too.

Have A Breakthrough 

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Couples-only retreats offer you the opportunity to not only explore your relationship but also enjoy activities like hiking, boating, couple’s massage or yoga together. An added plus is being with other, like-minded couples and forming new friendships, which are healthy for any relationship. Look for weekend retreats in interesting locations either close to home or far away, then suspend your current reality and enjoy being together in a completely new environment.

Have A Ball 

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Pursue a sports activity together, such as golf, bowling, paddleball or running. Make time to go to the gym or take tennis lessons. Some couples enjoy friendly competition, while others prefer to play games together as if they were little, goofy kids. Whatever your sports style might be, find physical pursuits you both can share that will help you keep both your bodies and your relationship fit and healthy.

Have An Adventure 

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Become tourists in your own home town by visiting sight-seeing destinations and attractions, like boat or bus tours, museums and landmarks. Pretend you don’t speak the language and ask people to take your picture together. Re-visit your own personal landmarks, too, like the place where the two of you met or the houses you both grew up in.

Take Time Out 

Photo Credit Thinkstock

Make the world go away by closing the door, shutting off the phones and dimming the lights. Remember that the little, day-to-day moments you share are just as important as the time you plan around activities together. Be a universe of two and spend some time remembering what brought you together in the first place. Congratulate each other on how terrific you are and celebrate being a couple, in any way you choose.

For idea’s on what to get your loved one this Valentine’s Day shop at YourHolidayHints.com

Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

Thanks to flower-dictionary.com for helping us with defining the colors.

Red

Red symbolizes love. The deeper the red, the deeper the meaning. Or put simply, true love.

Bright reds = Devoted Passion.

The color Red Berlin of red roses is a tomato red rose that “illustrates the type of passion one has.” The color Black Magic of red roses is a dark burgundy rose.

(Photo by Bruno Vincent/Getty Images)

Yellow

Yellow symbolizes “Happiness, new life, and cheer.” Some yellow roses can also be used for an apology from intense emotions from a fight or doing something wrong in a relationship.

The Best Yellow roses are: “Aalsmeer Gold, Concorde, Emblem, Golda, Judy, Message, and Papillion.”

(Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)

Orange

Orange symbolizes pride, confidence, and energy. It is fun and vibrant.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

There are many rumors as to how exactly Valentine’s Day originated. Many people believe it is a holiday created purely by greeting card companies to sell flowers and chocolate. But my girlfriend assures me that is just not true, and if I believe it then I can get used to sleeping on the couch. Others murmur rumblings of Christian martyrs and Popes and love. Not together, or necessarily in that order.

When looking back historically, most people will cite Christianity as Valentine’s Day’s origins. There were numerous early Christian martyrs named Valentine, with a couple — Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Terni — honored on February 14th itself. No romantic elements arise from any of these Christian figures or their history, however.

Photo Credit: Public Domain

The first recorded instance of associating Valentine’s Day with romantic love comes from Geoffrey Chaucer in 1382, from his “Parlement of Foules“:

For this was on seynt Volantynys day
What euery bryd comyth there to chese his make.

The internet translates this to:

For this was Saint Valentine’s Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his mate.

Written to honor the first anniversary of the engagement of King Richard II to Anne of Bohemia, Chaucer’s poem spread through England. So very romantic, even taking into account that both Richard II and Anne of Bohemia were a ripe 15 years old at the time.

On Valentine’s Day in 1400, the French established a “High Court of Love” to deal with love and betrayal, as well as violence against women. Judges at this court were selected by women based on a poetry reading. Some of these poems survive to this day, and many people consider them the first ever valentines. The oldest of which is from Duke of Orléans to his wife, which was in French and very short, so I didn’t include it here.

Fast forward a couple of hundred years to 1784. The first soon-to-be-cliché love poem is found in an English nursery rhyme compilation:

The rose is red, the violet’s blue
The honey’s sweet, and so are you
Thou are my love and I am thine
I drew thee to my Valentine
The lot was cast and then I drew
And Fortune said it shou’d be you.

Isn’t that sweet?

Photo Credit: Public Domain

The transition from lovely day of expression to capitalism at its finest kicked off around 1797, when a British Publisher came out with The Young Man’s Valentine Writer, a collection of writing and verses for men who couldn’t create their own. A giant was born. By the 19th century, paper valentines had become so popular in England that they were produced in factories. Lazy men rejoiced. The first mass-produced valentines in the U.S. were produced shortly thereafter, by Esther Howland of Worcester, Massachusetts, utilizing the resources in her father’s stationary store.

Fast-forward to modern day. In the United Kingdom, 1.3 billion pounds are spent annually on cards, chocolates, flowers and hopefully awesome hot air balloon rides. The U.S. Greeting Card Association, which is apparently real, approximates that nearly 200 million valentines are sent each year, yet somehow I only accumulated three Scooby Doo valentines in third grade.

Now, with the advent and flourish of the internet, love has become even easier and more passive. E-cards, flower delivery websites, love coupons and more have allowed men all over the world to procrastinate caring about their significant others until the very last moment.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Valentine’s Day approaches each year like the monster from Cloverfield: quiet at first, but you know it’s there, and suddenly it is everywhere, wreaking havoc from all angles. Then before you know it, it’s all over, and you probably died (or didn’t die) kissing some girl in a park.

Maybe it isn’t that extreme, but Valentine’s Day is inevitable, and for those of us that fall into the “single” or “considering buying friends” or “lying about my relationship on Facebook to try and make my ex jealous” categories, Valentine’s Day is usually spent trying to distract ourselves from our loneliness.

If you are one of the millions of singles just counting the days until February 15th, this article is for you. Let’s take a look at some ways you can cope with couples coddling each other while you freeze your lonely butt off in your cheap peacoat and beanie, lacking any sort of human contact. I’ll discuss ways to distract, occupy and consume yourself while you suffer through this artificial holiday.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Go Out With Other Lonely Coworkers: Remember, you’re not alone. Well, you are, but you’re not the only solo-Valentine. Everyone’s deeply hidden sadness can be cured with a few Jack and Cokes and some Dave and Buster’s skee ball. Or, better yet, Big Buck Hunter. Take out your rage on a few digital deer. With the proper mix of overpriced alcohol and shame you could be headed for an awkward morning after next to a coworker. All Vallow’s Eve (as we sometimes call Valentine’s Day) falls on a Tuesday, so embrace the morning after as a hungover hump day.

Just Play it Totally Cool: Thanks to social media, your ex(es) can track your one-person Valentine’s Day from afar, while they celebrate their newfound love aboard their significant other’s yacht. You must have a rebuttal. Photoshop yourself into some pictures with Rihanna, or on Maury for a paternity test with Beyoncé and Jay-Z. It’s much easier than ever to make yourself look busier and more popular than you actually are. Take advantage of fake retweeting a celebrity to make it seem as though they are trying to talk to you. Example:

RT @LadyGaga Hey @kyleayers, can’t wait for our Valentine’s date tonight. Kisses!

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Reconnect With Your Kids: If this option is even remotely a possibility for you, then I suggest you power down your laptop, get in your Civic and be a better parent.

Watch an Entire Television Series: Watching a single movie has too high of a probability of reminding you of that special someone, plus movies are about two hours long, which is more than 20 hours too short to consume your entire Valentine’s Day. I recommend The Wire or The West Wing, both of which avoid too many malicious relationships, and also have enough episodes to last you until Arbor Day (which I will now google to see exactly when it occurs).

There are numerous ways to make your Valentine’s Day as painless as possible. Find a way to distract yourself, and remember that Valentine’s Day is a competition. So make sure you’re having (or looking like you’re having) a better time than every single one of your exes.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Hollywood is forever in search of the next big hit. Sometimes us movie-goers get something so fresh and exciting that we flock to theaters in droves. More often we get enjoyable retreads of last year’s enjoyable retreads. At least we know what’s coming, from the summer action blockbuster, the holiday family movie and, this week, the Valentine’s Day romance.

In our love letter to the love scene, we’ve gathered up the worst romance movie clichés. Maybe Hollywood will finally put these to bed — and start writing some fresh love stories.

Photo Credit: New Line Cinema

Kissing In The Rain

The rainy-day kiss is a romance classic, and cinematographers have all sorts of fun with it. Sure, The Notebook’s dock scene set millions of hearts aflutter. Sure, Spiderman and Mary Jane’s upside-down kiss was all the sexier with the cascading water and epic flashes of thunder. The device definitely works aesthetically. But the overuse makes it seem like most great romances occur only in Portland, during weather disturbances.

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox

Fixing It All With A Stunt

We know that for the sake of a story, everyone’s romantic problems have to be solved in quick satisfying bursts. But since Hollywood also likes to make sure that couples hit huge roadblocks in their relationships, this can make for some utterly ridiculous solutions to big fights/character flaws. Did one of you make a huge mistake? Just hold a boombox outside of the window. Has one of you been a complete jerk to the other? Just sing a song from the rooftops. Or sing it on an airplane!

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Valentine’s Day, like New Year’s Eve and Independence Day, is a holiday that sometimes seems to let us down. It’s supposed to be fun — even magical — but we’re often left wondering why we were ever so excited. It just doesn’t live up to the hype. And it’s worse for those unattached types, who have to suffer through what might also be called “Singles Awareness Day.”

Instead of getting down and out about your Valentine’s Day situation, gather a group of friends and celebrate not having to fake smile when someone gives you a giant red stuffed bear! Here is a stellar menu for an “I Love My Friends But Hate Valentine’s Day” party!

Also Check Out Recipes For A Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Roasted Tomato Bruschetta

Ingredients:

* 15-20 Roma tomatoes, sliced in half lengthwise
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped, plus 15-20 full basil leaves
* 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
* 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
* 2 ounces goat cheese
* Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

2. Mix together the garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt and pepper in a small bowl.

3. Place the halved Roma tomatoes on a sheet pan and brush the tops of the tomatoes with the oil mixture.

4. Roast for about 40 minutes or until softened and the edges begin to darken.

5. Toast the bread slices in the oven until just lightly browned.

6. Spread each piece with goat cheese.

7. Top with a tomato half and a basil leaf.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Baked Brie

Ingredients:

* One wheel of Brie cheese
* Honey
* Pumpkin seeds

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Place the wheel of Brie on a small baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is oozing out from the bottom.

3. Place the baked Brie on a serving platter.

4. Top the brie with about 1/2 cup of honey and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds.

5. Serve with pieces of crusty bread or crackers.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Parmesan Popcorn

Ingredients:

* 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 3 tablespoons melted butter
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Pour the oil into a deep, heavy-bottom pan and heat briefly.

2. Add the kernels, cover the pot and shake it over the heat until the kernels pop.

3. Pour the popcorn into a large bowl and add the butter. Toss to coat

4. Add the grated cheese and garlic powder. Toss again to coat.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Spiked Chocolate Fondue

This may not be a traditional Valentine’s Day party, but you can still have a Valentine’s Day-themed dessert! This one has a little liqueur to kick up the flavor and fun.

Ingredients:

* 1 pound semisweet chocolate, chopped
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 4 tablespoons Grand Marnier liqueur
* Morsels for dipping (sliced banana, strawberries, raspberries, cubed poundcake, pretzel sticks, graham crackers, brownie bites… whatever your single heart desires)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler over barely simmering water, heat the cream.

2. Add the chocolate and liqueur, stir until melted.

3. Once melted, serve with skewers and any your delicious accompaniments of choice.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Every Valentine’s Day, people scramble for flowers, candy and restaurant reservations. It’s so stressful, so annoying… so anti-Valentine’s Day! In lieu of buying a bunch of love-themed stuff and shoving it in your sweetie’s face, woo them with a romantic, home-cooked dinner. It’s intimate and special. More than a phone call to a local restaurant, it shows that you care.

Cooking dinner at home can be stressful and time consuming. We’ve put together an impressive, but simple, menu for your romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. These three delicious courses are each brimming with aphrodisiacs; they’re guaranteed to put any couple in the mood. You’ve been warned!

Also Check Out Recipes For A Valentine’s Day Singles Party.

Photo Credit: Christine Hinrichs

Spinach And Arugula Salad With Goat Cheese And Figs

Arugula and Figs are the aphrodisiacs in this dish! It’s easy to toss this salad together while the rest of your dinner is cooking away.

Ingredients:

* Large handful of spinach leaves
* Large handful of arugula leaves
* 1/3 cup chopped figs
* 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese
* Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
* Drizzle of balsamic vinegar
* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the spinach and arugula in a large bowl.

2. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Add the chopped figs and crumbled goat cheese and toss to coat ingredients with dressing.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Saffron Couscous with Roasted Vegetables

Saffron is expensive, but a little bit goes a long way. This “vegetable gold” adds the romance to your main course!

Ingredients:

* 1/4 teaspoon (a small pinch) saffron threads
* 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth, use more if needed
* 1 cup pearl (Israeli) couscous
* 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
* 2 golden beets, peeled and diced
* 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
* 1 large shallot, cut into half-moon shapes
* Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

2. Line a baking sheet with foil.

3. In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with about a tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkling of salt and pepper.

4. Spread the vegetables on the baking sheet in an even layer.

5. Bake until softened and browned, about 35-40 minutes.

6. In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable broth with the saffron threads on medium low heat. Let the threads steep in the warm liquid for about 15 minutes.

7. In a larger saucepan, drizzle some extra virgin olive oil and add the couscous on medium heat. Toast until just browned.

8. Add the saffron liquid and cook couscous according to the directions on the package. Add more liquid if needed until the couscous is cooked.

9. Fluff with a fork. The saffron will give the couscous a lovely, yellow color.

10. Serve the couscous alongside the roasted vegetables and round off the meal with a piece of crusty bread.

11. Top with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Chocolate Fondue

Chocolate is always a surefire winner. Extra points if you feed each other the dipped morsels.

Ingredients:

* 7 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
* 1 cup heavy cream
* Morsels for dipping (sliced banana, strawberries, raspberries, cubed poundcake, pretzel sticks, graham crackers, brownie bites… whatever your in-love heart desires)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler over barely simmering water, melt together the chocolate and cream.

2. Once melted, serve with skewers and any your delicious accompaniments of choice.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Has Valentine’s Day got you down? Is meeting that special someone proving more difficult than you ever thought it could be? Maybe it’s time to change your approach to dating.

Dating websites have come a long way since Match.com launched in the mid-1990s. And the stigma of meeting someone online is all but gone. These days, dating sites offer many opportunities to make a good first impression without the pitfalls of the dreaded “pick up.” You can be sure that the person on the other end wants to meet someone too. With all the personalization features these sites offer and the traffic they receive, the right person is probably out there somewhere right now.

Here are the top 5 dating websites that can change your dating life with just a few clicks:

Photo Credit: Match.com

Match.com

www.match.com

Arguably the best known of the matchmaking websites, Match.com boasts a membership of over 20 million. The site uses your profile to personalize the matches that it delivers to you. It also offers a high level of search customization; the Mutual Match function, for example, allows you to find people who are looking for someone like you. While viewing member profiles is free, a subscription is needed to contact someone (member conversations happen via email, chat and instant messaging). Membership plans range from one to six months.

Photo Credit: Plenty of Fish

PlentyofFish

www.pof.com

POF (as it’s typically called) relies on profiles created through a “chemistry test.” This test tracks five personality dimensions, each of which contributes to building a romantic relationship. Members can view profiles and send messages to people who interest them. The heavily used and well organized forums are there for the viewing without even signing up. Video and audio chat capabilities are also available. The site is free to use, though a paid version may improve one’s chance at a love connection.

Visit The Valentine’s Day Section At CBS Local.

Most of us will never date a celebrity. But we can dream, right?

Hot celebrities square off in a Valentine’s Day edition of Pick-A-Side. And you choose the winner.

Select a category below and get started…

Most of us will never date a celebrity. And, in certain cases, that’s just fine.

Nightmare celebrities square off in a Valentine’s Day edition of Pick-A-Side. And you choose the, er, winner.

Select a category below and get started…

(credit: towntaverncharlotte.com)

Town Tavern
200 N. Tryon St., Suite 100
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
(714) 334-3324
towntaverncharlotte.com

Located in the heart of Charlotte’s popular uptown district, Town Tavern prides itself on being a popular place for singles to make new friends and enjoy a good time with old friends. Making the friendly atmosphere here even more inviting are the great sing-a-long music selections, ranging from great oldies to the catchiest songs on today’s charts. Happy hours happen every day here. And when it’s game time, Town Tavern offers plenty of plasma TVs for those who don’t want to miss the big game. Hours: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., Monday through Sunday.

(credit: that80sclub.com)

Breakfast Club
225 N. Caldwell St.
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
(704) 374-1982
that80sclub.com

If you’re asking, “Wasn’t that the title of an ’80s movie?”, your memory would be correct. At Breakfast Club, it’s all about the 1980s. Three levels of great nightlife fun await patrons at this best singles bar in Charlotte. Make friends or meet that special someone in a relaxed environment. Watch videos from the early days of MTV, enjoy Flashback Fridays, dance to all the 1980s hits, and hang out at the outside patio or tiki bar. The 1980s were a great time. Whether you were there or are wondering what made the decade special, stop by the Breakfast Club and find out for yourself. Hours: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Friday through Saturday, 8:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.

(credit: dixiescharlotte.com)

Dixie’s Tavern
301 E. 7th St.
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
(704) 374-1700
dixiescharlotte.com

Take the edge off trying to meet someone in an uptight, swank bar and come to Dixie’s Tavern instead. This is a place where people are comfortable in casual attire and a friendly atmosphere. Pool table, TVs, great music and plenty of food await you at Dixie’s Tavern. This bar features something fun and different each night. Karaoke on Mondays, “dirty Bingo” on Tuesdays, live music on Wednesdays, and plenty of drink specials Thursday through Sunday make this a great place to make new friends or hang out with old ones. Hours: 11a.m. to 2 a.m., Monday through Saturday.

(credit: bentleyson27.com)

Bentley’s on 27
201 S. College St.
Charlotte, N.C. 28244
(704) 343-9201
bentleyson27.com

Bentley’s on 27 has been called one of Charlotte’s most romantic spots – and with good reason. Located on top of the Charlotte Plaza Building, it offers the best view of the Charlotte skyline, hands down. It also offers an impressive American and French menu, table-side presentation, a full wine list and a beautiful dining area. Open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Friday; dinner only on Saturday. Call or e-mail for reservations and hours.

(credit: gardens.uncc.edu)

UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens
9201 University City Blvd.
Charlotte, N.C. 28223
(704) 687-2364
gardens.uncc.edu

If you and your date love nature, try the Gardens at UNC Charlotte – one of the best first date spots around Charlotte for those who are on a tight budget. Admission is free, and the gardens feature a greenhouse in addition to 10 acres of outdoor gardens. The grounds feature plenty of gravel and mulched pathways and thousands of botanical specimens, including native wildflowers. Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday; 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday.

(credit: theeveningmuse.com)

The Evening Muse
3227 N. Davidson St.
Charlotte, N.C. 28205
(704) 376-3737
theeveningmuse.com

Casual, funky, cool, relaxed – that’s The Evening Muse. Part art house, part coffee house, part intimate concert venue, this is the perfect place to spend a nice evening. Grab a beer, glass of wine or specialty coffee while perusing the original collection of art, or catch one of the area’s talented musical acts. Located in Charlotte’s NoDa district, your date will be impressed! Hours: 6 p.m. to midnight, Wednesday through Thursday; 6 p.m. to whenever the fun stops, Friday through Saturday.

(credit: nccommunitysailingandrowing.org)

North Carolina Community Sailing and Rowing
15901 NC Highway 73
Huntersville, N.C. 28078
(704) 947-7245
nccommunitysailingandrowing.org

Go jump in the lake – literally! OK, so try not to actually get in the lake, but on it would be great if you’re the adventurous type. Though the office is located in Huntersville, North Carolina Community Sailing and Rowing launches out of Lake Norman and offers classes on rowing and sailing for novices, as well as events for seasoned sailors. Those with no sailing experience can participate in the Sunfish Learn to Sail class for $185 per person, so it’s best for those without budget constraints. Hours vary.