Instead of warm, fuzzy feelings, Valentine’s Day gives some of us the shivers. After the exorbitant cost of a meal for two at a fancy restaurant (and the extra money you might have to shell out to pay a babysitter) there is nothing left to buy even a heart-shaped box of chocolates, let alone a dozen roses! DIY’ers know a thing or two about saving money, so why not make a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner DIY-style, at home, in your own kitchen? We are here to tell you how!
 

Step 1: Plan For Romance

Decide what you would like to serve on the big day. Will it be your significant other’s favorite dish, a fancy meal with a difficult recipe you’ve never tried before, or something fun the two of you can cook up together? Whatever you decide, have all the ingredients on hand and prepped ahead of time so that things will go smoothly on Valentine’s Day.
 

Step 2: Take Care Of The “Little” Details

If you have little ones, make sure you feed them first. There are lots of cute ideas on Pinterest to help you make a special Valentine’s Day dinner for the kids. After all, they also hold a key to your heart. But if planning and cooking two holiday meals is too much, every kids loves spaghetti with red “Valentine’s Day” sauce. Have some festively frosted cupcakes or sugar cookies on-hand for a special treat and send your little valentines off to bed early, feeling happy and loved.
 

Step 3: Set The Mood

A romantic dinner for two needs ambiance. Begin by setting out a nice tablecloth, fine dishes and stemware. According to etiquette expert Emily Post, utensils should be placed in order of use, from the outside in. Forks go to the left of the plate, and knives and spoons go to the right. Wine glasses also go to the right and napkins should be placed in the center of the plate. Go to emilypost.com for detailed instructions and diagrams on how to set a formal table. And don’t forget the lighting! Candles are a must for any romantic table. And if you have dimmers on your light switches, be sure to use them.
 

Step 4: Turn Up the Heat (and Don’t Forget Dessert)

The kids are asleep, the table is set, and the house has a warm glow. Now it’s time to get cooking your romantic dinner for two! The quickest way to the heart is through the stomach, after all. And of course, Valentine’s Day isn’t complete without dessert! Make something sweet for you and your sweetie to share.
 
Remember, nothing can compare to a DIY meal made with love, in the heart of the home — the kitchen! Happy Valentine’s Day from TheRTAStore!