Forget about going out this Valentine’s Day. Consider instead a quiet evening at home alone. Dim the lights, light the candles, pour the wine and sit in awe as you admire your fabulous table setting. Whether you cook the meal yourself or order takeout, the mood will be full of love with this plan for decorating your intimate table for two.
First things first. Find a small, intimate table and two chairs. A simple card table will work perfectly. If you don’t have a card table or other small table, be creative and make your own. Place a small sheet of plywood on top of a barrel or other sturdy surface. The idea here is for the setting to be as intimate as possible. Make sure you will be able to reach across the table and hold your sweetheart’s hand.
Next, find a crisp, white tablecloth of any size. Make sure the tablecloth drapes to the floor. If you do not have a white tablecloth, grab a white sheet from the linen closet. It may be necessary to use two tablecloths or sheets, or one of each. The goal is to make the tablecloth reach the floor all the way around the table.
The next step in building your Valentine table is to set the table with your finest china or dishes. Use whatever you have, even mix and match patterns if you wish. Stack a couple of plates on top of each other and set out a couple of goblets and wine glasses. Find a couple of matching silver forks, spoons and knives and “set” the table.
Next, find or make a simple yet romantic centerpiece. If you have a small, clear glass vase, buy or pick a few long-stemmed fresh flowers. Fresh flowers are very romantic, especially roses or pastel-colored carnations. If you don’t have a vase, purchase a small potted plant with pretty flowers. Tie a pretty bow with ribbon around the pot.
The next thing to do is find pretty napkins. The napkins can be any color you wish, as long as the napkins match. Fold the napkins into thirds and lay across the top plates. (If you are feeling especially crafty, search on the internet for ways to fold napkins. There are many simple ways to fold napkins to make them look fabulous.) Tie each napkin with a pretty ribbon, forming a bow on top. Stick a single flower stem under each ribbon.
Next, purchase a bag of fresh rose petals and sprinkle them all over the table. The petals will look lovely and smell even better (if you use real petals.) Place a bottle of wine (chilled if using a white wine) on the table along with a fancy box of chocolates.
Lastly, light a tall candle (or any candle you have on hand) and place it next to your centerpiece. Turn on soft, romantic music and dim the lights.
There is no doubt that your special someone will be thrilled with the romantic dinner you have created. Relax and enjoy the most romantic evening of the year. And don’t forget to reach across the table and hold your sweetheart’s hand.
