Perfecting a romantic table setting isn’t just for Valentine’s Day. However, whilst the day of love is just around the corner, there’s no better time to revisit. The hustle and bustle of Valentine’s Day in restaurants can be overwhelming, expensive, and entirely lacking intimacy. Enter the romantic date-night at home. Valentine’s being an ‘at-home’ affair means that you can enjoy the evening in the comfort of your own space, with your favourite person. Going the extra mile to create a romantic table setting is a great way to make the event feel special, even in your dining room.
Setting the Location
The first and arguably most important step in creating a romantic table setting is choosing the table and the location. Predictably, the dining table is more than likely your first choice. But here’s your opportunity to get a little more creative. If you have a smaller table, consider moving it to a different location to set it aside from your usual dinners. Perhaps tucked away next to the fire for a cosy atmosphere. A smaller table can allow for a more intimate table setting.
Chair placement can also change the atmosphere of your romantic table setting, and is dependent on personal preference. Think about whether you’d rather sit aside each other for closeness, or across each other for direct eye contact.
Laying Your Romantic Table Setting for Two
Choosing a romantic table setting with a neutral colour palette promises a timeless, charming tablescape. Think moody and simple, and remember that less is more.
Just because commercial Valentine’s is overrun with brash reds and pinks, it doesn’t have to transfer over to your tablescape. Using neutral linens and dinnerware also means that you can re-use your settings all year round, not just for the day of love.
Don’t feel the need to over-dress your table with fine-dining cutlery sets and napkins folded into swans. To add some elegance to your napkins, simply fold them into some matching rings. Small details make a big difference. Place them atop some large dinner plates, and lay just one set of cutlery – it may be a romantic evening but you don’t need to double your washing up.
If wine is your date-night tipple of choice, pulling out occasion wine glasses will add that extra touch of elegance to your dining experience.
Create Ambiance
Now that the fundamentals of your romantic table setting are laid, it’s time to add the ambiance. Nothing says moody romance like a candlelit dinner. So, dim the lights and watch the table come to life as the sun sets. When selecting your candles, you can opt for striking or simple. To create a focal point, add a feature candlestick or holder, or lantern to your table. Remember to opt for a subtle fragrance, so that it doesn’t clash with your food.
If you want to add a pop of colour to your romantic table setting, greenery or flowers is an effortless way to do so. Date-night also shouldn’t be complete without a fresh bouquet.
Final Touches to Complete Your Romantic Table Setting
A small but effective extra touch for your date-night is to print out the menu for your meal. This will make it feel that little bit more luxurious and exciting. And of course, not to forget making a delicious home-cooked meal.
Your Romantic Table Setting Checklist
Now we've covered each element of your romantic table setting for two. First, choose your location and table. Think outside the box, away from your usual dining space if possible. Next, lay the table linens, dinnerware and glassware - the key parts to your romantic table setting! Once your table is set, it's time to set the mood. Think candles, tea lights, flowers, anything that feels romantic! Lastly, go the extra mile with a home cooked meal, and a menu to match.
