Residents have been busy preparing for the big day, with many of the local retail stores already seeing customers coming in search for the perfect gift for their significant other.

Dubbo Target store manager Cherie Fuller said there were a range of Valentine’s Day products available in store.

“We have everything from men’s watches, sleep wear, cards, candles and lingerie,” she said.

Ms Fuller said some of the most popular gift items were confectionary, stuffed toys and romantic DVDs.

“Chocolate is always a popular item,” she said. “But cosmetic gift packs are always a hit, especially with the men when they’re looking for gifts because it is all together, which would make it much easier.”

When the Mailbox Shopper spoke with Ms Fuller last Monday, she said there were currently two stands full of Valentine’s Day cards.

Flowers by Jennifer owner, Jennifer Bjorksten said although roses were still one of the most popular choices, lilies and gerbera’s were also up there.

“The most popular is of course the traditional red roses,” she said.

“Balloons, stuffed teddy bears and chocolates have also been popular gift items.”

Ms Bjorksten said an average of 80 single roses were created for the day and more than 50 dozen and half-dozen roses were made.

When the Mailbox Shopper spoke with Ms Bjorksten last Tuesday she said orders were on par with last year.

“We’ll be open from 6am Sunday morning,” she said.

“We expect that to be a really big day.”

Dubbo Taronga Western Plains Zoo will be holding a special four course Valentine’s Day dining experience, on Saturday, February 13.

Including the four-course dinner, canapes and entree will also being served outside overlooking Savannah Lake.

Lazy River Estate will be holding a Wedding Open Day on Valentine’s Day between 11am to 2pm, for people recently engaged, getting married or just looking for a reason to visit, to pop out and say hello. Veldt Restaurant will be hosting a Valentine’s Day dinner for loved up couples on Sunday, February 14.

When the Mailbox Shopper spoke with owner Natalie Myers last Wednesday, she said they were already one-third of the way with bookings.

“We have 21 tables available, and we’ve only been advertising the event for a few days now, so we’re really happy with the response so far,” she said.

Ms Myers said it would be wonderful to see a proposal or two on the night.

Guests will have the opportunity to either a two-course or three-course meal, from a Valentine’s Day special menu.