Valentine’s Day is one of the biggest days of the year for some local businesses.

The romantic holiday is the third-largest sales season for Marie’s Candies in West Liberty, trailing only Christmas and Easter, said Rebecca Craig, manager of the shop.

“Last year we had 100 orders for Valentine’s Day, and now we have 66, so we’re well on our way,” she said.

The most popular items are their chocolate-covered strawberries, made only for the holiday, and boxes of variety chocolates. Quite a few people opt for the seven-pound heart shaped box of chocolates, valued at more than $150.

“A guy just called to ask for our biggest heart,” said Kathy King, the owner of the chocolate shop. “He said, ‘Only the biggest heart will do.’ ”

Marie’s chocolates are also a hot item at Schneider’s Florist at 633 N. Limestone St., owned by Kathy and Bill Ardle.

Bill Ardle said this was his 42nd Valentine’s Day at Schneider’s, and they do hundreds of orders and deliveries of flowers and candy.

“Most products are delivery, but a lot of people come in on the day,” Ardle said. “It’s a busy day.”

Local restaurants have also started taking reservations for couples. At Seasons Bistro, at 28 S. Limestone St., reservations are filling up.

“We’re doing a heart-shaped beef wellington and house made ravioli,” said manager Doug McGregor of some of the special offerings that day. He said they fill almost every seat in the restaurant — except two tables for large groups as most people on that day want a closer setting.

And some businesses are just hoping to get in on some of the economic love.

A Taste of Gourmet, which opened in Upper Valley Mall in November, is expecting good business for its first Valentine’s Day. The store offers gourmet foods such as Rothschild Farm products, balloons, skin care products and decorative gifts.

“We have been very pleased with business, people seem to be thrilled to see this at the mall because it’s unique,” said Donna Graves, owner the store.

Alternately, longtime business Gourmet Gift Baskets has never had major business on Valentine’s Day but is looking to change that.

Paul DeButy, who took over the store at 20 N. Fountain Ave. in September, is doing special promotions to entice customers such as a $5 flat fee for deliveries in Clark County.

“We want to let people know the option is there,” said DeButy.

The store has a variety of gift items and also has pre-made gift baskets and balloons.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0371 or emason@coxohio.com.