FLOWERS are the traditional way of declaring your feelings on Valentine's Day but do you sometimes worry you'll get it wrong? What are the best blooms to give if you are popping the question? Which flowers are the most appropriate to take on a first date?

Whether you're thinking of proposing marriage or asking someone out for the first time, help is at hand from Ilfracombe florist Sally Guile. Here are Sally's top tips for helping love to blossom this Valentine's Day.

Proposing With Petals:

Long-stem, top quality roses, hand-tied (stems left long) with foliage and berries are superb for a proposal. Get each rose studded with a diamante pin for that extra sparkle. This is a big moment so you need to make a big impression.

For Love That's Blossomed:

If you've been with your partner for some years, demonstrate your appreciation with a gift bouquet. Don't forget to include a single red rose to show your romantic side is still alive and kicking.

A Blooming Great Blind Date:

If you are going on a blind date take 12 red tulips hand-tied and chocolates. This shows you have thought about the occasion, but have not gone for red roses, as this could be perceived as over the top for a first meeting.

Spice It Up:

If you are looking to spice up a special night out a gift of Red Anthuriums and lime green blooms with a few chilli peppers on the side, in a black vase, is definitely spicy.

Romantic Roses:

If you want to send an anonymous gift to a certain someone who has caught your eye, a vase of three red roses and foliage with a Valentine's balloon shows imagination yet is not too over the top.

Budding Romance:

If you've just met someone and don't really know their tastes in flowers yet, a single red rose with foliage, beautifully wrapped, plus a box of chocolates is simple but effective.

If you are planning on hiding your flowers to surprise that special person this Sunday don't forget to ask your florist to 'aquapack' them so you are not handing over a bunch of wilted blooms.

Sally is picking up Cupid's bow with a special offer at Reynolds Florist: treat a special person to a romantic bouquet for February 14 and receive 10% off your Mother's Day order. Orders can be taken by phone or in person at the Ilfracombe florist. A delivery service is available to local areas within a 10 mile radius. A special Sunday delivery service will run on Valentine's and Mother's Day. Phone: 01271 862481.