How to Make a Decorated Table for a Valentine's Dinner

Valentine's Day candy makes a simple and inexpensive, yet effective, decoration.

Decorating the dinner table, whether for family and guests or for a romantic dinner for two, creates an atmosphere for a memorable meal that shows someone how much you care on Valentine's Day. A well-decorated table makes even a simple menu appear special. Valentine's Day provides excellent themed decoration ideas for expressing feelings. While traditional decor generally involves the colors pink and red, roses and hearts, be creative and incorporate elements that express your love in your own style.

Instructions

1. Cover the table with a tablecloth. Choose a simple, elegant tablecloth in a white or neutral color to make the table look fancy. Tablecloths with a lace or embroidered edge add elegant detail without distracting guests from what is on the table. Add a runner if you like in red or pink.

2. Set the table with solid-colored dishes; white or red dishes display attractively on a Valentine's Day-themed table. Avoid using plates with a design that will clash with the theme. Use your best china if you own a set. Place silverware settings next to each plate.

3. Place handmade name cards on the center of each plate. Lay a short-stemmed rose alongside the card on the plate. Select a rose in pink or red to signify love for Valentine's Day. Consider placing a small gift on plates instead, wrapped in a small box with solid red or pink paper, writing the guest's name on it.

4. Roll corresponding solid-colored cloth napkins and fasten them with napkin holders. Select napkin holders that are elegant yet simple, for example, a ring of pearls or a thick metal band with a single rhinestone attached. Place napkins in a basket on the table, one at each place setting or in an organized pile on the table.

5. Set the table with wine or champagne glasses, even if the drink will be nonalcoholic. Fill glasses with candy hearts or place a paper cone filled with Valentine's Day candy in the glasses.

6. Decorate the center of the table with a centerpiece. The centerpiece can be a combination of candles and flowers. Consider placing a heart wreath made from roses in the center with attractive candlesticks in the center of the wreath or tea-light candles strategically placed in a center line at each side of the wreath. Avoid a centerpiece that divides guests or makes it difficult for guests to interact across the table.

References

• Dummies.com; "Holiday Decorating; Valentine's Day Romance"; Kelley Taylor
• Martha Stewart: Valentine's Day Crafts
• Design-Decor-Staging: 21 Impressive Table Decorating Ideas for Valentine's Day
• Delish: A Valentine's Day Table for Your Dearly Beloveds