Forget the usual flowers and box of candy for Valentine’s Day, this year serve up a romantic dinner for two.

Find a cozy corner or set a table in front of the fireplace. Red might be the traditional Valentine’s Day color, but this year I decided to go with pink and gold. The faded vintage tablecloth was only $2.99 and I can use it for other occasions.

You know me; I collect all kinds of dishes. Over the years I’ve found a dozen gold chargers at Goodwill. I layered my basic white dinnerware with mismatched gold-rimmed plates. 

Since silver napkin rings won’t “go” with my color scheme, I wrapped them with gold-and-white ribbon.  I can use them over and over by changing ribbon.

Instead of flowers, I filled a large footed vase ($1.99) with coarse salt to hold tall tapers in place. No need for a card when you can spell out your feelings with stickers! I will find lots of uses for the vase in future projects.

I love the saying, “life is short, start with dessert.” I can’t think of anything that says I love you better than a hot fudge sundae!

Happy Valentine’s Day!