V for variety on Valentine's Day

Instead of buying stem-cut flowers, spend a little more money and buy them planted. Instead of dying a quick death, the flowers will be a long-lasting reminder of your undying love. Visit an online florist such as www.1800flowers.com and search for a planted version of her favorite flower ($29.99-99.99), or try a local florist.

Put together a gift bag from Target with a few pieces of Dominique Cohen's jewelry collection, which just went on sale. The line features vintage motifs such as cameos and resin bows on black chains and dark silver pearls ($10.49-$41.99). With all the money you're saving, you can afford to throw in some Choxie chocolates ($1.40-$5) and a DVD set of "The Audrey Hepburn Collection" ($17.99).

The crafters behind the I Like You shop are holding their second Handmaiden Minneapolis craft show, just in time for Valentine's Day. More than 50 vendors are participating, forcing the Handmaidens to expand from one to two floors. For Valentine-ready gifts, check out Vanessa Kimball's hand-illustrated, sophisticated yet whimsical stationery; Popsie Daisy homemade toys made from reclaimed textiles, and sweetly nostalgic jewelry by Lefthand Originals. You'll feel good supporting local artisans, and the prices aren't bad either. (10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun., Ballentine VFW Post 246, 2916 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls., 612-827-9065, www.the-handmaidens.blogspot.com)

Target designer Anna Balego is launching her first jewelry collection, annabalego. The antique-meets-modern collection is composed of bold, jewel-tone colors, pure crystal, black diamond and pearl. View the collection, meet the designer and enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres. (5-8 p.m., Sat., Lake Calhoun City Apartments Party Room, 3036 W. Lake St., Mpls., info@annabalego.com.)