Right now, up and down the country, there will be panicked men and women (but let's face it – mainly men) who will be desperately trying to find a perfect Valentine's Day present before they return home to the wrath of their partner.

Garage forecourts will be overrun by people trying to grab the last wilting bouquet; supermarket aisles will thunder with the sound of shoes racing towards the chocolates; and let's face it, your loved one will know exactly what little thought you've put into their gift when you shove a box of Milk Tray and a bunch of overpriced flowers in their face.

However, before you go and stick your head down the nearest toilet (or even worse, give up completely and run away to the local pub), there are a few alternatives! 

Brentwood beauty salon, Harmony, is renowned for its relaxing and pampering treatments. Manicures, pedicures, body and facial treatments, massage... who doesn't love a little TLC? You'll be delighted to know that Harmony is open until 9pm tonight so you can even call and book a treatment now!

Or you could always treat your other half to a haircut, new colour or beauty treatment at Callico's in Brentwood. Callico's specialise in hair styling for men and women so this gift isn't just for the ladies!

Of course, the way to a man's heart is through his stomach and from experience I'm pretty sure that the adage applies to women! I'm not going to lie – the likelihood of you getting a table tonight at such short notice is pretty slim, but the great thing about Valentine's Day 2013 falling on a Thursday is that you can quite easily take your partner out on the weekend as let's face it – it's close enough to the actual day!

Why not book a table at the Imperial Peking on Brentwood High Street or one of the town's recommended pubs, such as Thatchers Arms, The Green Man Herongate or The Olde Dog Inn? 

For the man who loves his golf, we're sure he'd be delighted with a round at Warley Park Golf Club. Visitors as well as members are welcome to play the 27 hole golf course and there is even a fine dining restaurant and Sunday carvery for you both to enjoy after the round is done.  

And finally, why not indulge in a little culture? Brentwood Theatre has a full programme of shows, from Shakespeare to Fiddler on the Roof.

So what are you waiting for? Get calling; get online; get yourself out of the dog box!