Monday, February 9, 2015

Setting The Table For The Perfect Valentine's Day Dinner

Image courtesy of Nathan Borror
Valentine's Day is this Saturday and we're sure you've got something special planned for that special someone in your life. If your plans include a romantic dinner in, you'll want to make sure that you do everything in your power to create the perfect atmosphere.

Though we're sure you've got your San Francisco apartment decorated perfectly, here are a few pointers to add a little bit of ambiance to your abode for the big day. Follow a few of these tips from renters.apartments.com and you'll have a romantic setting in no time!

Tips for Creating a Dining Area

If you already have a dining area it’s a little easier to stage a romantic dinner at home, but it’s still perfectly doable for those that have to convert an existing space.

Section off a dining area – Find a space in the living area that is relatively open and section it off for dining. This can be done with low bookshelves, open shelving, plants, a folding screen, etc. The end goal is to keep things open while establishing with dining area as its own separate space.

Utilize a nook if you have one – Creating a dining space in a bay window or nook is a great way to save space, and it’s already sectioned off.

Consider a Murphy table – Just like the bed, these tables fold down from the wall. It’s a great option when you have limited space and only need seating for two or three people.

Use corners – If only two people are usually dining at your house you can incorporate a table and save space by positioning it in the corner of the room. Choose an area where the table can be pulled out to sit more people when needed.

Use color to connect and separate the space – The dining area should follow the general color scheme as the spaces around it, but incorporate one signature, complementary color that makes the dining area stand out on it’s own.

Set the Mood with Lighting Around the Table
Play around with your lighting options once you have the table in place. Experiment with overhead lighting, indirect lighting and ways you can add lighting. If you want to add lighting consider:
  • Putting up string lights for a soft glow.
  • Adding flameless candles to the table.
  • Use neutral, light colors to make the dining area bright and warm.
  • Add a romantic chandelier if there is lighting wired above the dining space.
  • Add a floor lamp that gives a soft lighting near the table.
  • Table Setting Tips
No matter how much effort you put into the food on the plate, a messy table setting will ruin the overall effect. Use the tips below to create a 5-star dining experience.
  • Use a tablecloth if your table isn’t the most attractive. It’s amazing what a simple white tablecloth can do for a standard issue folding table.
  • Invest in cloth napkins. It’s one of those old school touches that instantly makes a meal feel like a special occasion.
  • Use multiple plates and utensils – Instead of piling everything onto one plate, take a page out of the fine dining playbook and use multiple dishes. Salads should always be on a plate of their own, as should dessert. When eating something juicy like a steak you may want to also consider putting veggies, rice, potatoes, etc. on their own small saucer plate as well.
  • Add a nice arrangement – Adding flowers to the table is always a nice touch. It doesn’t have to be extravagant, something as simple as a single rose still creates a romantic effect.

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