by Ramona Taylor

Created on: December 10, 2009   Last Updated: December 12, 2009

Sometimes, seeing red is a good thing!  After Christmas bells and New Year’s Day hangovers, it’s time to prepare for Valentine’s Day.  Valentine’s Day is truly a holiday for the romantic.  it doens't have the same significance other holidays because its more about personal relationships.   And, one of the best ways to get your special someone in the mood for Valentine's is to set the tone (and table) for the occasion.

THE ELEMENTS OF THE TABLESCAPE

In a practical sense, a tablescape is more than just nice salt shakers and napkin holders. Your tablescape is an inspired decoration for your table. Elements of a tablescape can include table linens, plates, glassware, flatware, flowers, candles and other decorative items.  For Valentines, hearts are the great theme for your tablescape, but don't be limited.  Candles, flowers, and colors are also other options.

In making your tablescape, you can use your leftover red Christmas or July 4th decorations, pull out things already in your home, or start from stratch. This will help you keep your decorating budget low. In case you are lost for inspiration, there are a number of workable ideas in your favorite women's magazines.

TABLESCAPE IDEAS

Fruit and Candles - A nice tablescape can be made using a few pieces of citris fruit and red and gold pillar candles as accents.  In the center of your table, place a nice red, gold, or white runner or cloth.  In the center of the runner or cloth, place large red and gold pillar candles garnished with dried citrus fruit.  Compliment the candles with red or gold trimmed plates and red napkins.  Add an extra touch of style with berries sprigs or berried branches around the base of your candles.  This decorating option can be completed with just things from around the house adn items picked up from your local dollar stores, department stores and grocery store.

Fruit and Hearts-  Take a page from Martha Stewart’s book of style and add a twist.  Set your table simply with a nice runner and your favorite plates.  At each place setting, put a nice red apple in the center of plate with your honey's name tied on the stem.   In the center of your table, add a basket of hearts and fruit.  Calligraphy and ribbons give it that special touch.  Cards can be found cheaply and  cut in the shapes of hearts.  A quality gold or red paint

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