For some, it makes the world go ’round. For others, it’s just a secondhand emotion.

But on Tuesday, when rosy-cheeked Cupid rears his head and Valentine’s Day makes its 2006 appearance, those with significant others, soul mates and main squeezes will be expected to make with the goods.

Goods meaning symbols of love and affection, usually accompanied by frills and hues of red and pink.

Traditionally, flowers are the gift of choice for loved ones, but florists on the North Olympic Peninsula are recommending that people not dally and get their orders in.

For a dozen long-stem roses — the Valentine’s Day standard — expect to spend between $70 to $80.

The choice for women is easy, but what do women give to their beloved man?

Flowers may not immediately come to mind when considering masculine gifts, but fresh flowers are an option.

Michele Henery, owner of Holly’s Fine Flowers in Port Townsend, said that women often buy flowers for family members, but about 10 percent of women buy flowers for men.

“Not as close to as many,” Henery said.

Lovers beware: Failure to take the day of love seriously, as one florist said, could put a person in romantic disfavor.

“Even if somebody doesn’t think about it until the last minute, they still need to do something,” said Sharon Psenak, owner of A Corner-Copia of Flowers in Port Angeles.

“Otherwise they’ll be in the doghouse the next day.”

As for the sentiment that flowers are impractical and that they’ll just die, Psenak said that romance itself is impractical.

“That’s the treat,” she said.

“It’s a little bit frivolous.”

If flowers aren’t in game plan, Psenak warns against buying practical presents, like cookware, which can have the opposite effect of flowers.

It doesn’t matter if she’ll put the gift to almost daily use for years, Psenak said.

Florists also can help you find a potted plant to give. While not as romantic, they last longer and may serve as a constant reminder of your unyielding adoration.

“Let’s face it, every woman loves getting flowers sent to work,” Psenak said.

If $80 is out of your range, Danie Dennis, a floral designer at the Garden Florist in Sequim, suggests spending what you can and letting a professional whip up something brimming with romance.

“It’s easier and we do good work,” she said.