It feels like the world is falling in around us, but you don’t have to get sucked in! Feel good and park your worries at the door – V-Day is a time for LOVE. With your creative efforts (and small budget) show your loved ones how much you adore them. Create the ultimate date night IN. Where to start? I’ll show you!
* Create your visual love cave. What can you put together to make the ultimate romantic den? Lighting is important, so close the blinds and light some candles for that passionate look. Flowers are always beautiful (brownie points if you remember her favorite flowers!), but it doesn’t have to be expensive. A single rose or sprinkled petals on the dining table or bed is enough to show off what the night will have in store!
* Sound check. Create a music playlist on your iPod to play automatically throughout the night. Do a thorough sound check beforehand so that you’re not wrangling cables or tweaking volume knobs last minute.
* Smell the romance. Scented candles are definitely a great way to set the aroma, but make sure not to use them while eating dinner (you don’t want the candles to overpower your delicious meal).
* What’s on the menu? Will you be cooking? Having food delivered? Make sure to plan your meal ahead of time along with how long it will take until it’s ready to eat. Don’t forget to pair it with wine or drink that will complement your food choices.
* Specialty drinks – Think cosmopolitans, ruby red grapefruit martinis, even margaritas dyed a silly shade. Don’t want to go too far? Why not just dye some superfine sugar and dip the rim of the glasses in it. Instead of typical bar fruit, spear some V-Day colored jelly candy or just add a treat to the top of the glass (like you would a regular old lemon).
* Make dessert an activity! What better way to enjoy dessert than to make it together? Put together a chocolate fondue with fruits and other goodies. Get creative with whipped cream, ice cream, toppings, and some bubbly champagne!
* Do not disturb. If you have children, why not set up a sleepover at their friend’s house for the night? Or hire a babysitter or family member who can handle the children for the night. Then unplug the phones and turn off the computers because you’ll want to have the whole night to yourselves!
You’re so right. The world will have to wait and let Valentine’s happen at least for a day!