Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and I never pass on the opportunity to have a themed celebration. I love holidays, some more than others, but I mostly enjoy the traditions and rituals. Of course, you don’t have to save all of your love for Valentine’s Day, but it’s fun to go a bit overboard.
If you haven’t been bitten by the love bug, it’s not too late. Here are a few last minute ideas for celebrating Valentine’s Day at home.
DIY Ideas
In years past, I’ve left messages with scriptures (one for each day leading up to Valentine’s Day), made heart shaped pancakes for breakfast, and prepared mini tins of treats and trinkets. This year I’m planning to give each child coupon books specific to their interests, and allow them to redeem one each day. For the hubby, daily treats and a note.
Dinner
In lieu of a romantic couple’s dinner (i.e. crowded restaurant, over-priced food, logistics nightmare), we have a nice family dinner. I set the table with linens, a centerpiece, candles and china. The menu is usually something simple with a special, chocolate dessert: chocolate fondue is a family favorite.
Italian cuisine just says “love”, so…
- Spaghetti and meatballs is a popular go-to. Add 1/4 cup of red wine to the sauce. Bring it to a boil and reduce to simmer. The alcohol will cook down and it will give the sauce a rich and flavorful taste.
- Artisan bread –If you have a bit of time, try the Almost-Famous Rosemary Bread. You will not regret it!
- Salad
- Chocolate Fondue (fresh fruit, pound cake, and marshmallows for dipping)
Decorations
- Cut heart shaped placemats from from colored poster board, or forgo them altogether.
- Arrange pink or red tulips in a vase, or glass pitcher.
- Scatter conversation hearts around the table.
- Finish with a few votive candles.
- At each place setting add a personalized touch with heart shaped straw toppers.
- Place tins with candy, pencils and other trinkets at each kid’s seat. Alternatively, hanging a bag of goodies from the chair backs is both pretty and functional
Conversations
- Pre-cut hearts from construction paper.
- Before dinner have family members write something they love about each family member and place it in a jar to be read during the meal.
- For an intimate dinner, use a similar idea, but pre-write “love” words and take turns personalizing messages related to the words drawn from the jar.
How does your family celebrate Valentine’s Day? Do you have other Valentine’s Day at home ideas?
