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Gray clouds hovered above as the evening grew cold. Couples held hands as they cuddled in a horse-drawn carriage, listening to the clopping of horse hooves.

Despite the harsh economic times and cold weather, the Valentine business is alive for some venues.

“The romance of the day, that’s what carriage rides are all about. Romance and happiness.”tiffany jewelry said Liz Ragsdale, co-owner of Whitehaven Carriage.

She and her husband, Marion, have owned Whitehaven Carriage for 16 years. Saturday was their first Valentine’s Day operating in Denton.

“I think in our economy today, people need something to relax.” Marion said.

“And it gives their husband an opportunity to …,” said Liz.

“… get out of the doghouse,” Marion said with a laugh.

With many businesses feeling the impact of the financial crunch, the Ragsdales are thrilled they haven’t felt much of it.

“We feared every year when we heard that … but they come back every year,” Marion said.

Whitehaven Carriage was booked on Valentine’s Day. Marion handed roses cufflinks and chocolates to couples and families as Liz drove the white carriage guided by two Percheron horses.

“We’re big on customer service; I think that’s what keeps us in business.” Marion said.

He said that 75 to 85 percent of their business comes from repeat customers.

Joe and Johanna Iaia of Denton were among those with Valentine’s Day reservations. They rode a horse-drawn carriage on their wedding day nine years ago.

“We’re kind of reminiscing,” Johanna said. “I scheduled this as a surprise for Joe.”

The Ragsdales offered three packages that included a 25-minute ride, romantic music and a photograph. Chocolates and roses were also given, depending on which package was purchased.

The carriage packages were priced lower than they were when the Ragsdales worked money clips out of Dallas. Marion said he did that out of consideration for their new location in Denton and the economic hardships some are facing.

“If we did Valentine’s Day for the money, it would be weak. You can’t do it for the money,” Marion said.

But Valentine’s Day isn’t their biggest seller. Liz had a full schedule of carriage rides for the night and Marion had to turn away couples attempting to take part in the romance at the last minute.

“It’s a totally different world when they’re on a carriage,” Marion said.