Millie Martini Bratten, Brides editor-in-chief; March 2010 Brides

Valentine's Day proposals, elopements and receptions may seem cliche, but they're still quite popular. Indeed, according to the Diamond Information Center, 10% of all couples engaged in the US this year will do it whilst honoring Saint Valentine.

For those who can't resist, there are ways to make a February 14 engagement or celebration memorable. We talked with Brides magazine editor-in-chief Millie Martini Bratten about how true romantics can celebrate their special day in style.

The Inside Source: So many couples get engaged on or around Valentine's Day. What are some suggestions for making the moment memorable, not cliché?

Millie Martini Bratten: Customize it. For example—pop the question in the coffeehouse where you had your first date, rather than in a big fancy restaurant that’s a local favorite for proposals. Guys should resist putting the ring in her shrimp cocktail or baking it in a brownie—the girl wants to wear the ring, not eat it! So instead of food prep, go for word prep—think ahead of time about what she means to you and your wishes for the future, practice a few lines, then at the right moment, let those words come pouring out. It doesn’t matter if they’re not perfect—what she’ll remember is that they were heartfelt.  

TIS: What about weddings around that time? Obviously having red bridesmaids dresses is probably over doing it. Any ideas? 

MMB: Rather than having a heart or Cupid theme, tweak things a bit and make the theme “romance.” For instance, couples can have their weddings revolve around their courtship, or great love stories in history; name tables after famous lovers like Antony and Cleopatra, Barbie and Ken, your mom and dad. Or name them after classic romantic movies (Wuthering Heights, Casablanca, Doctor Zhivago). Some other subtle, but charming ideas include serving a pink signature drink, having a dessert bar or lounge, a chocolate bar, chocolate signature cocktails, red bouquets, or chocolate favors. Also, keeping the guest list small (only the people you love most) is, by itself, romantic.

Be careful, however, when planning a wedding around a romantic holiday like Valentine’s Day. Because so many people want to celebrate during that time, it may be more difficult (and will most likely cost more) to book locations, caterers, florists, etc.  The best advice is to anticipate this, budget for it and book early!

TIS: It's cold out there—do you have any suggestions for chic toppers for the bride and her bridal party?

MMB: There are tons of chic toppers for both the bride and her bridal party. Vintage fur wraps, faux fur wraps, velvet shawls, and bolero jackets are all great options. Or, try a wool or velvet cape in cream, ivory, or in colors to match your wedding scheme.

TIS: Women (with their partners) are designing their own rings—engagement and wedding—more and more lately. Any tips on some unique cuts or settings to consider? Any ideas about how a ring can suggest the couple was engaged on Valentine's Day without the diamond being shaped by a heart? 

MMB: Oval-cut stones are gaining popularity and are beginning to emerge as the new alternative to a round cut. In terms of metals, rose gold is a great look because it complements all skin types.

To commemorate a Valentine’s Day engagement or marriage, many ring designs have heart scrollwork—both obvious and subtle.  For couples who want to be subtler still, heart shaped diamonds on either side of the center diamond may be good way to bring in the idea of Valentine’s Day. Another idea is to include pink stones—either as the center stone or surrounding the center diamond.  The most important thing to remember, regardless of when you get engaged, is that your ring should reflect your personality and make you happy every time you look at it.

TIS: What's the essential element for a Valentine's Day wedding?

MMB: True love, champagne and chocolate! Or, try this twist on tradition: Carry something red, rather than something blue (for instance—red shoes, red flowers, and a ruby red engagement ring).

Want to score your dream ring this Valentine's Day? eBay and Brides magazine invite The Inside Source readers to enter "Build Your Bling,” a nationwide contest whose winner will win a new diamond ring worth up to $25,000.

Starting today, those who wish to enter can visit eBay's Diamond Ring Designer, a web program that allows users to build a customized ring, starting with the shape of the diamond and ending with the band style. The public will vote on their favorite design and the creator of the winning ring will see her vision realized.

The contest ends February 19. To build your very own bling, visit diamonds.ebay.com.