Birthday
HydrangeasYou don't have to book a restaurant to make Valentine's Day special. A cosy evening at home can be even more romantic: no rush, no queues and no noise. Here is how to decorate your home, what to cook, what to wear and which flowers to put on the table.
Flowers for the table are in our roses in a box and flowers in a box sections.
What you need for the evening
How to decorate your home
- Light. Candles, fairy lights and dimmed lamps set the mood better than any decor.
- Colour. Red, pink and white in napkins, cushions and ribbons. Two or three accents are enough.
- Hearts. A paper heart garland, notes on the mirror or a trail of hearts leading to the table.
- Rose petals on the table or bed look stunning, but keep them away from open flames.
Safety: never leave lit candles unattended; place them on stable holders away from curtains and fabrics. LED candles are a good alternative.
Flowers on the table
For the table, choose low arrangements: a tall bouquet will stop you seeing each other. Roses in a low vase or a box, a few buds in small vases in the centre of the table or floating candles with petals all look lovely. Avoid strongly scented flowers such as lilies near food. For which flowers to choose, see "Valentine's Day flowers".
What to cook
A simple menu works best, so you are not stuck in the kitchen all evening:
- Starters — a cheese board, bruschetta, a salad with fruit or berries.
- Main course — pasta, baked fish or steak: anything that takes 20–30 minutes.
- Dessert — chocolate-dipped strawberries, tiramisu or a chocolate fondant.
If either of you follows a diet or has a food allergy, plan for it in advance.
What to wear
At home you don't have to choose between looking good and comfort: a dress or shirt you feel comfortable in, a red or pink accessory and a little attention to detail. The main thing is to feel confident and natural.
A plan for the evening
- Welcome with flowers and a card.
- Candlelit dinner to music chosen in advance.
- A favourite film, a board game or looking through photos together.
- Exchanging gifts — ideas in "Valentine's Day gift ideas for her".
FAQ
How can I quickly decorate my flat for 14 February?
Dim the lights, light candles, put flowers on the table and add a couple of red or pink accents.
Which flowers suit a romantic dinner?
A low bouquet of roses, peony-shaped roses or tulips without a strong scent.
What should I cook on Valentine's Day?
A simple menu of a starter, a quick main course and a dessert such as chocolate-dipped strawberries.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
