Date Night: Have A Romantic Night At Home
Romance can be found in the simplest places...
Why not at home?
The skill involved in creating a romantic night at home can be as easy as 1-2-3, but the effort involved with planning the perfect night in and making it come to life speaks volumes. It is more heartfelt and endearing when you take the time and care to set up what you have envisioned.
However, you don't need dramatic extravagance to show someone you care. My motto is to keep it simple. So how to keep it simple, sweet, and romantic?
Candle Ideas
Suggestions
Purchase:
- Rose petals (real or fabric)
- Round glass beads
A Quick Tip
You aren't a fan of flameless candles, but you aren't a fan of burning candles. What then?
- Buy an electric oil warmer or an electric tart warmer
Electric Oil Warmer
Planning A Romantic Dinner At Home
First, you need to set the mood. Go by your five senses - touch, sight, smell, taste, and sound. Visualize how exactly you would like to set it up. Remember keep it simple.
Candles, Rose Petals, and Romance
I would put out several well-placed candles. I'm a huge fan of floating candles in water. It creates a beautiful centerpiece, but if it should get knocked over then it would get doused with water. At least, that is what I'd like to believe would happen. If you aren't a fan of burning candles, I would try flameless candles.
Things to consider when buying candles:
- Scent
- Color
- Presentation
Why are these things important?
Purchasing black pillar candles that smells like sage paired with a dark candle holder might not be the best combination to create a romantic setting or mood.
Scents
Use scents that are relaxing, calming, and uplifting.
- Lavender
- Jasmine
- Vanilla
- Cinnamon
Color Palette & Presentation
The candles will most likely follow suit with their scent.
Lavender = Purple
Jasmine = White or ivory
Vanilla = White or ivory
Cinnamon = Red
For candle holders, I would use an understated design. The color palette should be within the shades of neutral, earthy, and cool tones. I know people view romance as passionate and fiery. However, too much fire can burn out too quickly. Simplicity can go a long way.
Plus if you happen to throw in some rose petals into the mix, that dash of color will compliment rather than overpower the presentation. If you want to spice it up more, try different types of flower petals. Orchids are not only beautiful but exotic.
Did You Like What You Were Hearing? Get it Here!
Music Preparation
Rule of thumb: Music must be mellow and calm
You don't want music to overwhelm or overpower moment. I would try classical music or at least instrumental. I would go so far to recommend meditation music.
The reason why I would recommend music without words is because music during this romantic venture is supposed to blend in with the surroundings. It is not meant to be the main feature. You don't need music as some distraction.
I have this album that I pointed out on the side. Meditation music is meant to relax you. Match the music to the type of food you have. If it is primarily seafood, go with nature sounds of ocean waves.
Recommended Foods
Pairing food with wine
- Pairing Wine with Food - Food and Wine Pairing Guide
- Matching Wine and Food
Easy to read chart telling you what wines go with what foods
Food & Beverage Preparation
Depending on what your taste buds are ravenous for, food and beverage is essential. Good food and good drink isn't always determined by quality, but more on your preference. If you're not up to cooking then I don' t see a problem in ordering food.
Since I'm saying keep it simple, I say go for the approach of finger food. I would ditch silverware and serve yourself or serve each other.
The list can go on and on about what finger food selections would be ideal to have. I think the idea behind my finger food theory is the following:
When you have bite-sized pieces of food you spend less time chewing and more time communicating.
Beverages
- The type of wine entirely depends on the food you have chosen
- Sparkling Juice or non-alcoholic sparkling wine
- Epresso based coffee drinks
You can always do the classic romantic dinner sur la table or you can switch it up and set the dinner up picnic-style. It is all in what you are comfortable with.
Romance isn't some fast-paced get to the finish line type of affair. Enjoy the moment and the company.
Let The Food, Drink, And Conversation Flow
The best thing about having a romantic dinner at home -- time isn't an issue and you are already home. Once everything is put into place, you can breathe a sigh of relief. All the preparation may seem like a lot of work, but it is worth it in the end.
Planning a dinner doesn't have to be a surprise either. You can work together and envision a romantic dinner together. Figure out what type of food you would like to eat. Maybe even try food you have never thought to try.
Tips & Ideas
- Get your decorations and accessories (candles, candle holders, flower petals, electric oil warmers... etc) at stores like Marshals, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Walmart, Michaels, and A.C. Moore to save on money
- Check online for great deals
- Purchase serving trays, serving platters, and serving dishes
- Wear comfortable clothes
