How to Create a Romantic Atmosphere

When planning an intimate dinner or other event, use your imagination and ingenuity to arouse the senses with beautiful sights, sounds, flavors and aromas.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Blankets
• Candles
• Citronella Candles
• Flowers
• Picnic Basket
• Champagne
• Strawberries
• Wines
• Fine China
• Flatware
• Table Linens
• Romantic Music

Indoors

1. Set the mood by playing some soft, romantic music. Classical music is usually a safe bet, as are jazz and soul.

2. Fill the room with a dramatic array of flowers to add visual interest as well as inexpensive elegance.

3. Light the room with either bright, slow-burning candles or, if possible, the glow from a fireplace to add a warm, intimate tone to the evening.

4. Plan and prepare a simple yet elegant meal. Try to find out beforehand which foods your date particularly enjoys and serve them.

5. Include classic romantic fare, such as Champagne and strawberries.

6. Use your best china and flatware and select table linens and napkins in soft and sumptuous fabrics. If chosen well, these items can be purchased for little money but appear stylish and sophisticated, giving your date the impression that you've gone all out for the occasion.

Outdoors

1. Coordinate your plans with seasonal or natural events such as a sunset, a full moon or the turning of the leaves during the fall.

2. Plan and prepare a simple yet elegant meal. If possible, include your date's favorite foods. Don't forget the wine or Champagne.

3. Pack the meal and the necessary utensils in a picnic basket. Again, use the best china and flatware you have.

4. Bring along a picnic blanket as well as a big, soft blanket for warmth, should the night turn cold.

5. Build a fire if your location allows, or bring along some candles or torches to provide light and warmth. Citronella candles will be especially handy for warding off insects.

Tips & Warnings

• Flowers are a staple of romance - use them liberally.

• When planning an outdoor event, be sure to check the weather forecast and have an alternate plan in mind, just in case.