Tomorrow is Valentine's day. Some of your will go Cupid-crazy - buying dozens of roses or perhaps enjoying a reservation at an impossible-to-get-into restaurant (tip: If you don't already have a reservation, I hear the name Abe Froman tends to get you in with the maitre'd. Just go along with it when he asks if you truly are the "Sausage King of Chicago..."). Others have labeled tomorrow the "Hallmark holiday" and will do nothing at all. But for all of you in-betweeners, there is a way to celebrate without going overboard and the best part is that you can enjoy it for many days after February 14th.
Bringing a little romance into your home is the Valentine's Day gift that keeps on giving...
I recently visited the IKEA in Bolingbrook for some low-cost, high-impact ideas on turning your bedroom into a romantic getaway that doesn't require reservations, luggage or a key for the mini-bar. Here's what I found out:
1 - Tried and true, there's a reason that candles have always exuded romance. First of all - no one looks bad in candle light! The soft flicker sets the mood and is flattering to just about everyone. Plus, you can choose from endless varieties - from long tapers to tealights, you can find something that looks great with your decor. Find your sweetie's favorite scent and win bonus points for thoughtfulness. And in case I didn't mention it - you can find them anywhere on the cheap.
2 - Lose the full-blast flourescents! If you haven't installed dimmers yet, then pick up a couple of lamps that have this magical device. Nothing is less romantic than the harsh glare of full-blast light coming from above. For less than the cost of dinner for two you could have a pair of handsome, dimmer-controlled lamps flagging your bed. Plus, you get to enjoy it long after Cupid takes off.
3 - They call it a bedroom because of the bed. So don't ignore it! Romance is all about feeling comfortable enough to enjoy yourself and your sweetie. Your bed is the center of the room, so make it an oasis of comfort and romantic style by layering on the luxurious fabrics and pillows. Spring for the sheets with the extra threadcount this weekend and enjoy them for years to come. And pay attention to your pillows! Because for goodness sakes, who feels romantic with a crick in their neck?
and 4 - Bubbly = special occasion. Go the extra mile and grab a bottle of champagne, sparkling wine or sparkling cider, a pair of tall champagne flutes and a couple of chocolates to top off the romantic vibe. All available for a few bucks at your corner grocery, you don't have to spend a bundle to enjoy these items. Even cheap champagne sparkles like the expensive stuff! For extra oomph - pull out that silver tray that crazy aunt Millie gave you as a wedding gift to display the yummy goodies at the foot of the bed or on a nightstand along with some fresh flowers (carnations are very retro and cost just a few bucks!).
And by the way - if you're spending this Valentine's day solo, go ahead follow these tips anyway! Everyone deserves a little at-home luxury!
Happy Valentine's Day!
