We love a date night as much as the next person, but as the Omicron wave of cases continue to surge, we’re leaning more and more into the ever humble at-home dinner-date.
Its perks are endless—it’s comfortable, arguably cheaper, and in this climate, it’s an awful lot safer than sitting in a crowded restaurant.
So with that said, if you’re looking to plan something for Valentine’s Day on February 14th, a romantic date night at home could tick all the boxes.
But, how does one actually make it romantic? Well, you don’t have to go down the rose petal and tea light candles route to achieve that ‘love is in the air’ feeling. Read on to learn how to create the most romantic dinner date at home with some surprisingly simple pieces.
Bottoms Up!
Let’s work from the bottom up – and by bottom, we’re talking table setting must-haves.
Sleek and modern, these leather-look placemats not only protect your dining table from heat, but it’s also a perfect base to enhance your deliciously romantic meal.
Vue Leather-look Placemats in Clay, $29.95 (currently $10) at Myer.
The ultimate combo: Cinnamon and Cedar. This tablecloth and napkin set by Cultiver is made from 100% European flax linen and pre-washed for that super-soft feel.
Summer Dining Set in Cinnamon and Cedar, $230 by Cultiver.
Add a natural touch to your table with these wooden coasters by Ecology. Classic and minimal while ensuring your glass of sparkling water always has its own place.
Ecology Alto Coasters, $19.95 (currently $16.95) at Matchbox.
Whether it’s a glass of vino or a delicious mocktail, elegant coasters will add an extra special element to your evening.
Georg Jensen Wine Coasters, $100 at David Jones.
Just like a fashion show needs a runway, a romantic dinner date needs a table runner. Add a splash of colour and a hint of sweetness with this fun floral number from H&M Home.
Floral Print Table Runner, $9.99 (currently $7.99) by H&M Home.
Serving Looks
Now with the basics down pat, a home-cooked meal needs thoughtful serveware to accompany it.
If you’re prone to breaking things, then this charcoal acrylic wine glass option will be your saviour. Plus, it’s super chic.
Byron Wine Glass, $12.95 by Country Road.
Crafted from solid oak, this salad bowl combines soft curves with clean lines for a minimal design.
Theo Medium Timber Salad Bowl, $89.95 by Country Road.
Boring bowls just won’t cut it anymore. This unique deep green bowl features a flower-inspired design is perfect for small to medium dishes to share.
Byon Florian Bowl (Medium), $20 at Royal Design.
If mid-century Scandinavian is more your design aesthetic, then these two-tone wine glasses by Hay will be right up your alley.
Hay Wine Glasses, $176 at Farfetch.
These footed platters by Home Republic are perfect for entrees and desserts. Handcrafted and finished off with a clean white enamel coating.
Home Republic Blanco Timber Natural and White Platter, $29.99 – $49.99 at Adairs.
Plate Up!
Step up your plating game with these sets that are made to impress.
Truth be told, the key to one’s heart is through food. Why not show how much you love them with a home cooked meal served on a heart-shaped plate?
Pearl Heart Collection, $34.90 – $64.90 by The Décor House.
After something classic, but still with a twist? This white dinner set by Freedom features irregular edges ensuring each plate has its own personality.
Haven Dinner Set, $159 (currently $127) by Freedom.
Just like you and your lover are made for each other, gorgeous dinner plates can only be accompanied with elegant cutlery pieces. This matte black cutlery set by Country Road is a match made in heaven for any plate set you end up choosing.
Nolan Graphite Cutlery Set, $179 by Country Road.
Date Night Es-scent-ials
Scents have the exceptional ability to trigger memories. So, to ensure you and your partner will never forget this night, it’s important to set the mood with some romantic scents.
It’s only natural to have a candle that celebrates love.
The Commonfolk Collective Dictionary Meaning Candle, $34.95 at The Iconic.
A soothing blend of lavender and rose complemented by a touch of honey and musk to set the mood.
Honey Lavender Reed Diffuser, $44.99 (currently $26.99) by Dusk.
Love Is Blooming
Nothing says ‘romance’ than fresh flowers, a date night must in our books.
A floral bouquet boasting bright pinks and lilacs, guaranteed to impress. Delivered straight to your door so you can spend more time with your date.
Marsielle, $145 by Fig and Bloom.
Leave these in the bouquet or pop them straight into a vase. Easy Flowers delivers gorgeous fresh bouquets Australia-wide.
Robin, $72 by Easy Flowers.
What’s On The Menu?
Take your at home date night dinner to the next level by creating a personalised menu, add a few puns or inside jokes – trust us, it’s the small details that make a huge impact.
Canva has both free and premium templates that allow you easily create personalised menus to suit your night.
Download Canva Pro here.
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