Valentine's Day is less than a week away and I'm starting to get some "help me with some ideas.... and fast" emails. Happily, some are from guys! I am all about any reason to have a party, and after all, what's not to love about love? It's a great reason to celebrate, no matter what your current romantic situation may be. Here are a few suggestions for the annual day of love:
Party for Two
Keep it simple but sentimental and you'll win him/her over every time. Surprise them with a favorite meal, their favorite movie, or a special treat that you never have, like an ice cream sundae with all the toppings.
Recreate a romantic Italian restaurant at home complete with a dance floor! Read more...
A picnic for two in front of the fire is always fun.... send the kids away to Mimi's or off to bed early! Throw tons of fluffy quilts and comforters on the floor in front of the fireplace. Chill something; Prosecco, sparkling wine, or champagne would be nice. Select something from my list if you need help. Maybe make s'mores...toasting marshmallows over the fire... or a candle if you don't have a fireplace. Fondue is also really fun... but a bit messy. Here's a fast and easy recipe for fondue that will be the perfect ending to a romantic dinner for two.
If you do the rose petal thing, just remember that red rose petals WILL stain almost everything--- especially a white fiberglass type of tub. For that reason, I like pale pink for this romantic gesture.
For the guys: Pop the question all over again! Recreate your proposal and if it wasn't all that special, this time, make it memorable. Of course, a special token of your great esteem would be essential.
Make a romantic dessert together and then share the results! Try my Chocolate Souffle. Perfect for the occasion!
Need a cocktail for the occasion? Try my Mocha Margarita. Chocolate+Tequila= Love.
Party for More than Two
Do you have a mix of singles and couples you’d like to celebrate Valentine’s Day with this year? Select a party theme that doesn’t necessarily require any partnering or couple-oriented activities. Instead, select something that can be fun for all.
Host a Wine Find: You know how everyone loves to brag about that perfect bottle of red they discovered for only $12.99... turn this into a party where everyone brings a wine and a complimentary dish. Super easy, super fun! Read more....
Host a Progressive Dinner Party: In the UK, they call this a Safari Supper, which I like better than Progressive Dinner. Each course is hosted at a different home. This is perfect for a neighborhood party or supper club. The party usually starts and ends at the same home. Guests travel to different homes for the salad, soup, and main courses. But you can mix it up any way you like.
Throw a Pajama Party: There are lots of versions of this party theme. Everyone comes dressed in pj's and robes. Lots of pillows, blankets, and throws are all you need for decorations. Read about our Guilty Pleasure Pajama Party
Parties for Families or Kids
It seems as if Valentine's Day is more for the kids these days. Here are some fun ideas for family fun.
Make Edible Valentines: Host a cookie decorating party where the result is edible heart-shaped cookies to share with friends and family! Read more....
Host a Wii Bowling Party:Pretty self-explanatory. Families wear team shirts or dress in one color. Award prizes for the winners. Serve typical bowling alley fare: root beer, pizza and nachos are perfect.
Host a Tea Party: For the little girls, High Tea can be very fun. Make it a Mother-Daughter party, complete with dressy clothes, gloves, and hats. Make lots of heart shaped items using a cookie cutter as a template. Heart-shaped tea sandwiches, cookies, and cakes are perfect. Or get some ideas for heart-shaped goodies from our friends at MyRecipes.com