Ina Garten — American Author born on February 02, 1948,

Ina Rosenberg Garten is an American author and host of the Food Network program Barefoot Contessa, and a former staff member of the White House Office of Management and Budget. Known for designing recipes with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and time-saving tips, she has been noted by Martha Stewart, Oprah Winfrey, and Patricia Wells for her cooking and home entertaining... (wikipedia)

Instead of going out to dinner, buy good food. Cooking at home shows such affection. In a bad economy, it's more important to make yourself feel good.
Creme Brulee is the ultimate 'guy' dessert. Make it and he'll follow you anywhere.
When I wrote 'Barefoot in Paris,' I wanted to make simple recipes that you could make at home that tasted like French classics.
You don't have to do everything from scratch. Nobody wants to make puff pastry!
I always like to have flowers on the table. I think they make it look special.