February 14 is drawing nigh and you have a hot date planned. You would like to turn up the heat on the the after-party. Whatever is a romantic Wiccan who wishes to skip the commercialism but honor the day to do you ask? Have no fear, because I have some notions of my own.

First, whether you are going out or strictly staying in for the eve, wear something that makes you feel sexy. Not just what you think your hot date will drool over, but something you can feel both confident and move comfortably in. Nothing kills the mood like self-consciousness. Scent is important. I am a big fan of essential oils because they aren't over-powering and add just the right hint of seduction. Mix your own come-hither blend ahead of time, or if you appreciate musky tones, you cannot beat a pure blend of amber and myrrh. Kuumba Made® is a good natural option.

If it is your own love nest you are heading back to, please be sure to tidy up in advance. Dirty dishes, stinky garbage, and neglected bathrooms all are major anti-aphrodisiacs. So make with the broom in your pre-planning and do put some fresh sheets on the mattress. 

As far as food goes, I have learned the hard way. Although a delicious and well-made meal is pleasant, if love is the main event– this is not always a conducive combo. I would stick to things to nosh and sip on that you both enjoy. Think small plates, tapas, if you will. My own favorite trilogy at this time of year: blood oranges, dark chocolate, and a spicy Tempranillo. Heavenly. Feed each other, eat them off each other, leave a trail of plates to the boudoir– whatever floats your boat.

Likewise, we all have different things that get us in the mood. Since this is the mating season for wolves and they are one of my favorite wild animals, this is reason enough for me to celebrate Valentine's Day in some fashion. Courtesy of "The Wicca Book of Days," by Gerina Dunwich, we have nods to the she-wolf goddess Juna-Lupa on the 14th and the Lupercalia Festival on the 15th. Both were fertility fun days in ancient Rome.

If you too like the wild wolf idea, I have a few suggestions. Check out one of the better modern werewolf movies out there, a little Canadian flick entitled, "Ginger Snaps." It is a smart, snarky, and strangely sensual tale of two sisters, and what unfolds when one of them gets bit. Or try reading some excerpts from "Moonflower, Erotic Dreaming With the Goddess" by Sirona Knight. There is a "Wolf Moon" meditation in chapter one. You could also cast a circle with your partner and raise energy in your preferred fashion, then get busy within the pulsating energy of the circle.

Be bold. Do like the wolves do– nibble, bite, wrestle, play. The moon will be waxing. Something tells me it is going to be a beautiful night.

Photo courtesy of nixxphotography at freedigitalphotos.net