Planning a romantic night in this Valentine's Day? Gabrielle Fagan reveals her top picks for February 14.
Love can, of course, be shown with just a look, a touch or a few words… but woe betide if you don’t pull out all the stops on Valentine’s Day!
Face it, even the most unromantic soul will appreciate a small gesture that marks the event and shows you care – and if you’re courting, wooing or planning to propose, setting the scene is key.
So show your home some love with flirty, fun or down-right romantic touches that could reveal your feelings, celebrate what you share, or simply make rooms more ‘love-ly! Here’s our top picks…
Pick an ever-lasting bouquet
A bouquet of roses is a classic Valentine’s gift but those blooms soon wilt. Instead, spoil a wall with a rose-print wallpaper – digital techniques are now so good, they look freshly picked – which will transform a bedroom into a feminine, sensual boudoir.
Flirt with fun details
Keep it subtle and follow a soft pink theme – rather than full-on red – and use just a few pretty accessories to show you care. They’ll be perfect for that Insta-moment too!
Serve up sweet somethings
Avoid PDAs (Public Displays of Affection) by creating the perfect setting for that romantic meal at home. Follow a hearts and roses theme, with a red table runner, heart scatter, and napkin tied with ribbon adorned with a single rose.
Make a loving statement
Inject colour and passion into a room, with saucy accessories that could signal your intentions.
Romance the room
The colour red is traditionally associated with feelings of love, passion and desire, and a dramatic red roses backdrop will leave a partner in no doubt about your feelings.
A garland or a balloon (follow the ‘less is more’ rule here for best effect) could be just enough to set a heart fluttering.
Shine a loving light
If all those hearts and flowers make you cringe, make a witty, playful statement with funky, quirky accessories instead. Neon’s bang on trend, and a Neon Heart Light or ‘Hello Gorgeous’ Neon Palm Print (£36.95, unframed) from Audenza, could be just the thing to float your rebellious decor boat.
Look out for love
Turn away from the predictable and keep it subtle with monochrome. A window blind design that celebrates hearts could ensure a romantic outlook throughout the year.
Spell out your desire
If long declarations of love aren’t your style, keep it short and sweet with a few accessories that tell all.
Toast your love
Special occasions require a toast. Do it in style, with beautiful glasses that could become treasured mementos.
Let it glow
Candlelight’s not the only ingredient for an intimate setting. A string of heart-shaped lights, hung in a hallway or arranged on a mantel, could be a surprising but effective touch.
Tempt with a treat
Little gestures mean so much. Breakfast in bed will be extra special if it’s served on a tray with Valentine-themed tableware.
