If you're going to do something, you might as well do it ... at the last minute. Right? Isn't that a saying? If you're anything like me, it's more of a motto; I'm pretty sure it's on my family crest.
But even for highly functioning deadline junkies like myself, Valentine's Day is one day when the risk just isn't worth it. Cutting it close might work the rest of the year, but showing up empty-handed on the big day could spell disaster for your relationship — especially in the social media age, when your significant other's news feed will be transformed into a highlight reel of your shortcomings.
If you waited too long to make a reservation at one of Sarasota's most romantic dining spots, we've put together a few alternative options for you to keep in your back pocket this Valentine's Day, just in case of emergency:
- Black Diamond Burlesque presents Valentine's Lounge — takes place at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. this Saturday at the Starlite Room, 1001 Cocoanut Ave.
The couple that watches strip teases together stays together, am I right? So spice up this Valentine's Day by treating your special someone to a night at the Starlite Room with some of the hottest talent in town. Vaudeville, variety and strip tease all set to a throwback ’60s theme? What more could you ask for? $60 per person, or $75 for VIP.
- Pucker Up with the Rolling Renegades — takes place at 8 p.m. this Saturday at Shamrock Pub. Free.
If anybody knows how to express the tender embrace of love, it's the Rolling Renegades Roller Derby Squad, which is perfect, because they'll be on hand at the Shamrock this Valentine's Day to help set the mood with a kissing booth. Throw in some sour beers on tap, and you've got a party worth puckering up for.
- Pucker Up! — takes place at 8 p.m. this Saturday at Mr. Beery's. Free.
Take your Valentine down to Gulf Gate this weekend for a sour-beer extravaganza. The acclaimed beer bar will have a selection of draft and bottled sour beers to keep your holiday sweet. Available beers include Saint Somewhere Brewing Co., Cigar City Brewing's collaboration with Déjà Vu, The Bruery Rueuze and more.
- Siesta Key Village Valentine Stroll — takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. this Saturday in the Siesta Key Village. Free.
Participating business will offer up free candy to passersby, and lovers on a stroll can also enjoy live music. Just look for balloons outside to indicate participating merchants.
- Say 'I Do' Again — takes place at 6 p.m. this Saturday on Siesta Key Beach.
What better way to show you care than to renew your vows? Or, if you're not married, you could ... watch other people renew their vows. Vicarious romance is just as good as the real deal. Hey, you didn't plan, remember? Stop being so picky. This non-denominational service has been an annual tradition since 1989, and every year, hundreds of romantics show up to celebrate together.
If all else fails, remember: You're in Sarasota. Use your location to your advantage. A bottle of wine and a stroll along the beach is a great failsafe — just make it look intentional. Good luck, Romeos and Juliets.
What are you doing for Valentine's Day? Let us know in the comments.
