It’s all about Insta worthiness, isn’t it? (It really isn’t, but…) A gathering isn’t just a gathering. It’s all about the experience. So, get serious about the planning. What’s in? What’s out? The pressure can be so, GAH!

Our friends at The Bash have got us. Phew!
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Let’s get the “what’s out” stuff out of here, first.

Generic Party Favors. In 2020 go the extra mile with a personalized gift, such as a memorable photo or a drawing of the guest.
Crack Wise feels: Effort. You said effort. Sigh.

Custom Signs. It's easy to go overboard on party decor, and too many customized signs will distract from the elegance of an event.
Crack Wise feels: Fine. Bye, bye restroom signs…

Vast Guest Lists. Bigger isn't always better!  Smaller parties are less expensive and give you quality time with people who mean the most to you.
Crack Wise feels: Yes. We cheap, er… frugal…

Basic String Lights: Fixtures are getting fancy - this year try mixing and matching hanging lanterns with exposed bulbs, glass pendant lights and chandeliers made out of unexpected materials.
Crack Wise feels: Fine. Check out our FAA-violating laser.
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So what’s new for 2020?

Venues with picturesque backdrops.
Crack Wise feels: We’ll make sure grandma’s portable toilet is prominent…

Natural Adornments
Crack Wise feels: Farrah has natural large boobies, so…

Grazing stations will be at all the parties.  These buffet style spreads arrange cheese, nuts, fruit, veggies and dips in an eye-catching way.
Crack Wise feels: Who’s bringing the farm animals? Conley?

Clothing trend?  Funky accessories!  Formal dress is too stuffy and in 2020 fun meets fancy with quirky socks and humorous bowties.  Accessories that show off your personality.
Crack Wise feels: Get ready for neon and crocs! No?

Forget the chocolate and roses. Such items are cliche and played-out for Valentine's Day. Have some playtime and make the holiday explode with... well, whatever. 
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Lovers Family of Stores wants you to join them in celebrating all the love: your curiosity; identity; body type; solo, partnered or group love; vanilla-style love; pleasure... Not only does Lovers offer lingerie and massage oils, but there are educational blogs, in-store seminars, and body-inclusive clothing.

Explore the site, and explore each other.

P.S. We still think chocolate should be included.

​Nothing says “romance” more than a quickie… getaway… Actually, there may be other things that say “romance” more, but that’s not the point. The point is: GTFO for Valentine’s Day.

The peeps from Equity Lifestyle have some ideas for your quickie. And we have our own thoughts, random and what-not.

A Romantic Suitcase Surprise
Everyone likes a surprise, so if you already have the weekend getaway plans set and your significant other is in the know, try a suitcase surprise! Depending on where you are going, slip a little something into their suitcase without them knowing. Whether it’s a book by his or her favorite author, a new swimsuit for beach activities, or tickets to an event or show in the area, the surprise gift is an added bonus and sure way to kick off the excitement to a romantic weekend.

Crack Wise-dom: We're afraid of what's in the suitcase.

Make it a “Tiny” Romance
Tiny Houses are all the rage, why not stay in one? They are unique, affordable, romantic, and fun! They also happen to be located in some great, easy to get to locations that can make for a perfect romantic escape. Petite Retreats has multiple tiny house villages across the nation with the newest opening of Sunshine Key Tiny House Village in the Florida Keys just this year

Crack Wise-dom: Aren't some of you making it a *tiny* romance 24/7, 365, gentlemen?

Romance is Avoiding Crowds
If you’re planning the romantic getaway to a big city but want to make it your own, avoid the crowds. For example, New York provides the backdrop of some of the most romantic movies of all time. Rarely will a Romcom or commercial show their characters paying $40+ to wait hours in line before taking a crowded elevator to the 86th floor of the Empire State Building. However, hitting the tree-lined promenade along the East River in the classy neighborhood of Brooklyn Heights, with stunning views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty, doesn’t cost much.

Crack Wise-dom: The undies are more likely to drop if there are less people around...

Try Something New
The first time doing something or going someplace new can be exhilarating, stirring up emotions or adrenaline that hasn’t been experienced before. Heading to someplace that is unique to the both of you is not only exciting, it’s romantic! Visiting a new location can be thrilling, and not knowing where to go, what to do, or where to eat, adds to the excitement.

Crack Wise-dom: No. This is not the time to ask for a "third" player...

Get Outside, Go Glamping
Glamping at a campground is the perfect romantic getaway to have a vacation with some hotel-like amenities, while not paying typical hotel rates and still being outdoors getting that fresh air. From yurts, cottages or cabins, check out campgrounds with great vacation rentals such as Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort. Enjoy endless opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and photography making this experience full of romantic activities.

Crack Wise-dom: Nothing says "love" like an accidental indecent exposure charge. 
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