Whether your buying roses for the first time or you're a seasoned flower store shopper, this guide will teach you how to choose valentines day roses that will look better and last longer.

1. Red: Love - the default and arguably the best choice for Valentines
2. Pink: Admiration
3. Yellow - Friendship
4. White: New Beginnings
5. Orange: Desire
6. Lavender: Love at First Sight

There are many new variations on these colors of roses. Bi-color roses often have two meanings. For example, a Red and White rose can represent both love and a new beginning.http://www.proflowers.com/flowerguide/rosemeanings/default.aspx

1. Move the head of the flower around gently to see if it is well connected to the stem. Roses often wilt from the top first due to their weight and a good quality flower will have a good stem.
2. Gently pinch the bottom of the stem. This can let you know how well the roses have been stored. A rose that does not compress easily has been well cared for.

1. Healthy roses are usually filled with vibrant and rich colors. If you have a hard time comparing the depth of color against other roses, move the bouquet to another area of the shop or in front of a daylight window where you can evaluate them.
2. Carefully review each rose. Remember that just like in sports, your team of roses is only as good as your weakest link.
3. Last, smell the roses. Fresh, well stored Roses are fragrant and smell fresh.