It's a week until Valentine's Day. Remember? It's a holiday that often takes you by surprise and sends you scurrying through the supermarket, hoping that the nearly empty shelves hold one more box of chocolates to save your loving soul.

Why not try something different this year? Lots of weekend sales boast plenty of suitable gifts for the big day, from French-lilac perfume to free-trade chocolates. Go ahead. Shock your sweetheart. Shop early.

* If you know she likes Talbots and Ann Taylor, you could fill your Valentine's closet this weekend. I Love It Recycle Boutique is offering those brands and others (Tahari, Liz Claiborne, J. Jill, Harolds, Banana Republic, Ralph Lauren) at $3 an item. Prices on decorative home accents are also slashed, up to 90 percent off retail. 5501 S. Broadway, Unit 125, 303-798-4205

* Women in Mission can help you on your mission for a perfect V-Day gift. The group is hosting a SERRV fair-trade sale from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, featuring items such as chocolates, tea, coffee and jewelry at bargain prices. You'll also find home decor and children's items, with entertainment provided for the tots while you shop. 1710 S. Grant St. (Denver Presbytery, north entrance, lower level), 303-679-9473

* Spring fever has already sprung at On a Lark, which has marked everything in the store down to make room for new merchandise. Something for the sweetheart could be waiting, including Pacifica solid perfume at half price and all furniture (including antiques) at 25 percent off. 849 E. Ohio Ave. 303-766-3434

* Find a sassy gift for your man or woman at a Sassy Stuff clearance event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. today at Panache Hair Studio. Many items are marked half price, with special Valentine's gifts featured. 151 W. Mineral Ave., Littleton, 303-471-1048, 303-794-9933

* Oh So Charming Cottage also opens Friday just in time for last-minute Valentine's shopping. You'll find a unique array of quaint furniture and charming decor Friday and Feb. 14. 5684 S. Datura St., Littleton, 303-859-8311, ohsocharmingcottage. com

* If you're starting your spring cleaning early, Mothers of Preschoolers is looking for consigned items for its spring/summer sale, slated for April 18. Any gently used children's clothes, equipment, furniture, toys, books and maternity clothes are accepted for a 70/30 split. Proceeds benefit the Christ Lutheran Church MOPS in Highlands Ranch. 8997 S. Broadway, 303-471- 4264, newtoyousale.org

* Parents: You might want to check out the Grab Bag Event today only at Once Upon a Child. Fit as many clearance items as you can in a provided bag for $10. Shopping early is recommended. The sale kicks off at 10 a.m. and runs until 8 p.m. 8055 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton, 303-973- 3337

* Serious bargains begin Friday when the Junior League Second Time Shop launches its semi-annual Dollar Days sale. Select items, including men's, women's and children's clothing, will be $1. Winter designer items will also be reduced. 5042 E. Hampden Ave., 303-789-4055

Have a tip on a good sale? Send it to dmelani@msn.com.