There are an infinite number of ways to describe how much you care about a person. Each type of relationship requires a different approach.
Recently, I told a good friend I loved her "like a fat kid loves cake." She didn't get it initially. She's from the mid-west and some of her jokes and expressions are different than mine apparently. When it came together for her she said "ohh, I guess that's a good thing?" Good thing? Hell yes, it's a great thing!
How do you tell people you love them? With words? Humor? Art? A hug? The secret is telling them in a way that they need to feel it. I've personally learned that just because you may like something, your partner may be in a different boat.