Valentine’s Day is one of the few occasions when going all out only adds to the fun. Whether it’s indulging in a romantic movie marathon, going for broke with heart-shaped everything or hanging panels of bold red wallpaper to set the mood (see opposite for the full effect), now’s the time to embrace that warm, fuzzy feeling and free your inner romantic.
Here are some simple yet charming ideas to sweep your beloved off his—or her—feet.
Jazz up a box of chocolates
A box of chocolates may be a Valentine’s Day classic but this is one tradition that’s starting to feel a little stale. Give your store-bought treats an upgrade by re-covering the box with a few scraps of leftover wallpaper or wrapping paper. Combine the pieces for more drama and interest. To finish, trim the edges with a length of pretty ribbon and fill with fluffy white feathers.
Make a playful place setting
Valentine’s Day is all about being playful, so don’t be afraid to mix and match your dinnerware, break out that heart-shaped cutlery or do romantic candlelight in the form of heart-shaped votives (if you can’t find them, use heart-shaped cookie cutters to make your own). To temper the look, incorporate a few elegant antique pieces, such as an old linen tablecloth, antique pedestal cake plates or beautiful etched glassware from the 1920s.
Add ambience with a romantic movie or love songs
Set the mood with the gift of a romantic movie or a CD of love songs. Instead of keeping the original DVD case or album cover, make it extra special by customizing the packaging for the occasion. Pick up a pack of CD envelopes in red or pink and decorate them with nostalgic elements such as an old luggage label or hearts cut out from a scrap of vintage fabric.
Image: Flowers: Fauchois Fleurs; Dishes, linens: Arthur Quentin

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