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This Valentine's Day, think outside the (chocolate) box and beyond the roses! Yes, we all know that the rose is traditional and red roses are for "amour" but why not choose an original gift for your loved one, be spontaneous and surprise us all. If you must go with roses, choose a deep pink or even white for a fresh take on romance this year!

Of course you want your love and they flowers you buy to last as long as possible! Here are my top tips for keeping flowers fresh longer:

1. Find a clean, tall vase and fill it with room temperature water and add in a good flower food to prevent bacteria growing in the water.
2. Cut each of the stems about half an inch or to fit the vase and then remove any leaves that will be below the water line.
3. Keep your flowers away from direct sunlight and in a cool place in the house.
4. Change the water and trim the stems a little every other day.