Yesterday was that special day that many of us love to hate, although I suspect deep down there lingers in most of us at least a little appreciation for it, as who could not like a day that celebrates LOVE! I do like to celebrate Valentine’s Day (and am glad that my husband does too) and I usually include my kids in the celebration in some kind of low key way.
Here are five tips for making an everyday meal special (such as breakfast on Valentine’s Day – pictured above) :
- Find a tablecloth, or a length of fabric, a sheet or a sari, anything really will do to dress your table (the lace tablecloth above was handed down from my grandmother and always reminds me of all the wonderful meals she cooked). Also use some table napkins. I usually keep a few packets in my cupboard for special occasions , although you can also use vintage handkerchiefs or cloth ones. They always look very festive fanned out in glasses on the table;
- Light a candle – this really adds to the atmosphere and kids especially get a kick out of dining by candlelight. Put on some music. It’s easy to find themed music or a playlist to set the scene for your meal.
- Find some props to put on the table. Flowers or arrangements of foliage from your garden are always lovely, but you could also add shells, driftwood, ornaments or a tiny present at each place setting (like the tiny heart soaps and chocolates used here);
- Use your special glasses, crockery and cutlery – don’t let them sit in the cupboard gathering dust.
- Buy some treat food, that you don’t have every day. This breakfast was special (and easy) as we had croissants and juice.
Dawn love is silver, Wait for the west: Old love is gold love – Old love is best.
Katharine Lee Bates 1859-1929
Love this – celebrating love.