SPENDING VALENTINE’S DAY AT HOME

With Valentine’s Day just right around the corner, it’s time to start making plans with the people you love. Whether you’re celebrating with your spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend or your children, it’s nice to make the day feel special, even if it doesn’t involve going anywhere. Why worry about getting a reservation for an expensive restaurant and getting all dressed up when you can have a nice, romantic and fun evening at home. Here are a few tips on making your Valentine’s Day at home the best yet:

Set the Mood

It may be cliche, but setting the ambiance to feel like a romantic restaurant can make a difference. Light some candles, play soft music in the background, set the table, fold the napkins in a fancy way, and get some flowers or unique centerpieces to top off the look. Try to create the atmosphere of a five star restaurant in your dining room (minus the wait staff).

Make Dinner

Cooking at home for Valentine’s Day can be a fun and inexpensive way to make the day memorable. If you’re cooking alone, cooking with your partner or making dinner for your entire family, set a menu that everyone will love. Dig up an old favorite recipe or try something new and fun like breakfast for dinner. Breakfast patties or maple breakfast links with eggs, pancakes, pastries, and fresh fruit is an exciting way to switch things up. Or, if you’d like to do something more traditional, try spaghetti and meatballs or hot Italian sausage and veggies.

Watch a Movie

Whether you’re interested in a romantic movie or the latest action blockbuster, watching a movie with your Valentine is a great way to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Stream a new movie or check out your collection of DVD’s and pick one you haven’t watched in ages. If it’s just you and your partner, each of you can pick out a movie to watch.

Play Games

If you don’t feel like sitting on the couch watching TV, try playing some games to switch things up. Try anything from board games and card games to video games and charades. Games are a great way to interact with one another and have some fun. This could be especially exciting for families celebrating the day with children. Have some chocolate or candy on hand for the winners to add some competition to the mix.

Relax and Have Fun

Even though this is a special occasion, you’re at home! Relax, kick your feet up, have a glass of wine, pick through some mystery chocolate, and enjoy spending time with the special people in your life. Staying in is a great way to connect with loved ones in a more casual, comfortable environment and you don’t need a reservation.