Yellowknife (Feb 11/05) - Retailers agree, Valentine's Day shopping is often a last minute phenomenon.

But when Monday afternoon is drawing to a close and those stuffed animals and chocolates at the drug store and supermarkets are starting to look tempting, remember there are other choices.

At Inspired, Lisa Tesar says the key to celebrating Valentine's Day in style is creating a special mood.

Lona Collins checks out Inspired's array of pre-wrapped spa and chocolate packages. Co-owner Lisa Tesar said presentation is everything. - Jennifer Geens/NNSL photo

"If people are able to spend a moment with each other out of their busy schedules, that's a gift," she said. "What we have here just enhances it."

That's where Inspired's huge wax candles and red glass Moroccan lamps fit in.

Inspired carries pre-wrapped Valentine's packages for the lover in a hurry, but has other choices for people who want something more personal.

Tesar suggests using some of their calligraphy pens and handcrafted paper to create your own love sonnet.

And if you've bungled the dinner reservations -- in other words, forgot to make them -- she's also got dinner preparation kits with easy to follow instructions for the neophyte cook.

Tyler Thorpe says that, oddly enough, women are the main customers at For Men Only.

The store has a display of racy Valentine-themed gifts, including Belgian chocolate body paint, which Thorpe said is one of the more popular items.

If money is no object, there's also a $100 tin full of Kama Sutra massage oils, "pleasure balms" and honey dust.

For Men Only also carries the briefest of briefs with hearts on them -- underwear which would certainly only be worn by a very special man.

And there's always the furry red handcuffs.