This Valentine’s Day, impress your better half with some thoughtful attention to detail to show how much you care. Dining at home is a popular way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, giving you the full creative freedom to set your own tone.
When planning your romantic meal, think ahead and make sure everything you need is already on the table before dinner begins. This will save you time away from your seat and allow you to have more uninterrupted moments with your partner. For example, coasters, carafes, glasses, warming dishes, oven mitts, serving spoons, napkins, etc. should all be pre-arranged on the dinner table. Here are a few more specific areas to pay close attention to:
Centerpiece
For a romantic-themed meal, opt for a decorative centerpiece to create a focal point. Don’t forget to give a thought to how tall you would like your centerpiece to be – and make sure it is not blocking the view of your partner! A classic candelabra will immediately add a touch of elegance. A gold-accented vase filled with red roses immediately says romance. Alternatively, a wide glass bowl filled with petals or scented tea lights is a perfect handmade option. Depending on your overall color scheme, there is no limit to the type of floral centerpiece you can design. Lilies, tulips, orchids and roses can be lovely choices for a sweet celebration.
Linens
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to go all out with fancy linens you would not otherwise use. Make sure to coordinate your cloth tablecloth, placemats, napkins and napkin holders for a consistent look, and choose a theme that best matches yourself and your partner’s personality. For the ultimate romantics, choose bold reds and pinks. If you prefer a more casual vibe, then choose a neutral shade like cream, beige or white. Playful and fun couples might enjoy a bright color explosion of reds, yellows, oranges and greens.
Dinnerware
Bring out the fine dinnerware for the most romantic day of the year. Whether you opt for modern white china or more decorative and elaborate pieces, remember this is the occasion to use items you would not necessarily use every day. It is best to use coordinated dinnerware, utensil and glassware sets, and avoid having mismatched items on display. A champagne bucket or a wine bottle holder on the table is a great way to create a relaxed atmosphere the minute your partner sees the table.
Decorations & Accessories
Having Valentine’s Day dinner at home means you can add your own special touches to the dinner table. Don’t be afraid to display your favorite items to make the meal even more memorable for both you and your partner: Here are a few ideas we love:
- Candles – Candles on the table are a perfect way to create a low-light, romantic mood. Use tea light candles, a favorite candle holder, or get crafty and create a unique mason jar candle display.
- Gift baskets – If you plan on doing a gift exchange, you can place gifts in a cute basket on the dinner table so you won’t need to leave your seat during the meal.
- Chair cushions – Make him or her cozy with beautiful chair cushions that match your linens!
No matter what type of meal you are preparing for your Valentine, pay close attention to detail and be prepared ahead of time. You are bound to create an evening to remember!
