It can be difficult deciding what to do for the one you love on Valentine’s Day; whether it’s making the date night extra special, buying the perfect Valentine’s gift, or even planning that all important proposal. Making it memorable is often the goal, and since the Pandemic many of us have turned to celebrating at home for a variety of special occasions, so why not get creative this Valentine’s Day and devise an evening that your partner, friend or loved one will remember for years to come?
One of the simplest ways to do this is with a technique that has been used since the dawn of time: candlelight! Create a beautiful and romantic atmosphere simply with the power of a flickering flame. The soft, warm hues created from a lit candle has been proven to relax us and help us unwind, and is simply the perfect final touch to any romantic evening. Scented candles also have the ability to please our sense of smell, which can transport us to many different places without leaving the comfort of our own homes.
Candles in the Home
A great way to display candles and candlelight is through candle holders and candlesticks. Coming in a range colours, designs and periods, there is certainly something that you’ll love; whether it’s a classic candelabra on the dining table, or smaller wooden or metal candlesticks placed on the mantelpiece or shelves, ready to cast their beautiful, romantic ambience into the surrounding room; simply put on some soft music, pop open some bubbly and let the rest happen naturally. Placing candles in front of a mirror projects the light into the room further as it reflects off the glass, so always consider your candle placement carefully to ensure maximum impact! If you’re not in the mood for romance however, then why not invite some friends over for a cosy night in?
Why not add a larger wooden candlestick or glass votive as part of a spectacular table centrepiece? Add natural or artificial foliage that adds the WOW factor to your table setting, and impress them before they’ve even had a chance to sit down. Just make sure you keep any foliage away from those naked flames…
Candlelit Bathroom
Another romantic idea is a nice relaxing soak in the tub; what better way to wash away the aches and pains after a long day, and in the company of the one you love? Glass tealight holders and small lanterns are simply perfect for this, as they maximise your romantic lighting, whilst being protected from water splashes and condensation. Why not line several either along the bath or on the windowsill? All you need then is the bubble bath.
Candle lanterns
Candle lanterns are another great way to get romantic lighting into your home. Make a statement in stunning silver, beautiful wood or classic copper; there are simply many ways that you can use indoor lanterns to create the perfect magical ambience for your romantic evening. Why not use them in an alcove to light up a corner of the room, or place them up the stairs along with rose petals to light your way? Metal lanterns are sure to sparkle when the light reflects off them, and wooden lanterns will add a calming element to whichever room they sit. The twinkling lights are sure to set the perfect mood for the both of you.
Taking the Romance Outside
There is absolutely no reason why your romantic evening should be limited to indoors. Stay toasty warm around a fire pit whilst you toast marshmallows and drink hot chocolate as you snuggle up in a cosy blanket and gaze at the stars above. The cold air is the perfect excuse to wrap up together! It’s also great for spending time socialising with friends. Why not add extra mood lighting with an oil lamp or two around your seating area, along with oil torches further back to add extra height in the garden. Create the illusion of fireflies around you as you relax in each other’s company. You can also use solar lighting as an alternative; simply using the power of the sun to charge they require no wiring to the mains or cost anything to run, and are a great eco idea for your outdoor romantic lighting needs. Place stake lights in the ground around your seating area, or string up fairy lights in trees and on trellising for maximum romantic impact.
However you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day, say it with candlelight, and create the perfect romantic setting that they’ll remember for years to come.