February 14th is known the world over as the “Day of Love”. It is Valentine’s Day; the day that we celebrate Cupid’s arrow finding it’s mark and propelling us into a relationship that may (or may not) lead to a life-long commitment. It is the day that we set aside to share our feelings about our mate, with our mate.
This is the day of romance. It is a day that can be celebrated in a variety of fashions and it is a day that florists look forward to every year. Bouquets of roses are bough and send by the thousands. Chocolate sales soar, as brightly wrapped, heart-shaped boxes of the confectionary delight are purchased and given to those to whom we would give our heart. It is a day that is made for couples.
In addition to roses and candy, romantic dinners abound. Many of these dinners are at fancy restaurants, while others may take place in the privacy of one’s home or at a park or picnic grounds. Wherever the meal is served, a romantic tablescape is recommended; actually, it is required.
In a restaurant, the tablescape is provided for you; that’s easy enough. At home, though, one must provide one’s own tablescape, and this does not have to be a monumental task. A little thought and a little effort can lead to fantastic results. There are some standard items that most of us would use, and these include a vase with the traditional rose or roses, candles, candy dish with candy, and a place setting for each person. Once these items are taken care of, one can work on the ambience by adjusting the lighting and music, and by taking a moment to prepare a special card or write a special poem.
For a romantic dinner, choose a small table. In many instances a coffee table will do. If the finish is not attractive, use a red or while tablecloth or a similarly colored blanket to cover the eating surface. However, if the finish is a nice, dark, rich brown for example, use placemats of red or white to accent its beauty and then place attractive dinnerware and silverware in their proper locations. The combination of a mahogany and a deep red make a very attractive setting.
The setting is enhanced with our centerpiece, a vase with a rose or roses. Different colors of roses signify different levels of a relationship. A red rose indicates love, white represents oneness, and yellow if typical of friendship. In a committed relationship a single white rose in a crystal vase says it all.
Candle light is next. The candle holders should match or compliment the vase. Try to use a candle that is the same color as the rose or roses. If this is not possible, use an accent color that brings the vase and candle holders together. If a true candle holder is not available, a long stemmed wine goblet with a small votive candle set amid a bed of red translucent marbles or aquarium stones makes a wonderful substitute. And use an unscented candle, as one would not want to interfere with the aroma of the meal or with the sweet scent of perfume that might be in the air.
Finish off the table with a bowl of candy. Use a crystal bowl if possible, but whatever is used, be sure that it ties in with the vase and the candle holders. Fill the bowl with heart shaped cinnamon red-hots or heart shaped candies that bear special messages. Rather than a candy bowl, one might choose a heart-shaped box of chocolates displayed on an easel or tilted jauntily against a book of poetry as part of the center piece.
Finally, bring it all together with soft music and dim accent lighting. The music should be heard, but should not overwhelm the conversation. The light should not be so dim as to make navigating the room dangerous, but it should not be so bright as to detract from the candles. Sign the special card that you have picked out or constructed yourself and place it underneath your date’s plate, with just a corner of the envelope peaking out seductively.
The tablescape is complete. The mood is set. Now chill the wine, prepare the food, and add a couple seeking an intimate night together. Yes indeed, the only thing better than Valentine’s Day is Valentine’s Day night.