5 ways to create a romantic escape at home for Valentine's Day

From celebrating Halloween from a distance to hosting Thanksgiving via Zoom, our favorite holidays looked a little different last year.

So far, 2021 is no exception as the stay-at-home celebrations become total normalcy.

Coming up with Valentine’s Day ideas and plans in any given year pre-pandemic was already hard enough (i.e. making dinner reservations, finding the right gift to say ‘I love you’). However, consider this year a special opportunity to stay at home and spend some quality time with your significant other.

Here are five ways to spruce up your space for a magical, romantic evening at home on Valentine’s Day or any other.

1. Turn your dining space into your personal restaurant

While your favorite romantic restaurant may not be an option this year, it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a special meal with your partner at home.

No matter if you decide to cook your own meal or order take-out, there are a few easy ways to create an intimate dining setting.

First, get the lighting right: Ditch any harsh lighting in your home and turn on some moody lamps or lights. An affordable option is some simple twinkling fairy lights—these will add a subtle glow to your dining room.

For an added sentimental touch, try these Polaroid photo string lights and hang up photos of you and your partner.

Set your dinner table with your best accessories. Add some fancy dinnerware to get that restaurant-feel—we love this melamine set from Food52. Pair this with some linen napkins and placemats for a complete setup. And for the final step: Add good food and drinks!

2. Bring the spa to your house

If you’re longing for a couple’s massage at a high-end spa, but looking to keep activities at home, transform your bath area into a spa paradise this V-Day.

Start by lighting a few of your favorite candles around the bathroom to set the tone—this coconut pineapple-scented candle can be used as a moisturizer and massage lubricant once the flame goes out.

Next, don your favorite plush bathrobe and break out the face masks and give your skin a boost. In true rom-com style, cut up some cucumbers and lay them on your eyes for the ultimate experience. All that’s left to do is kick your feet up.

For an extra treat, try using a soothing foot spa to completely relax and unwind.

3. Dress up the bedroom for a cozy night in

While this isn’t exactly a stay in a five-star suite, you can easily transform your bedroom into a paradise for you and your partner. This is your opportunity to cook up a romantic breakfast in bed or spend the evening lounging.

First, give your bedding an upgrade—add silk pillowcases and pair it with an oversized silk throw for a sexy change of pace.

Make this moment special by adding a few flower petals to the bed. Pro tip: Take one bloom off of a flower bouquet and scatter it across the comforter. Add a heartfelt card or bottle of champagne as the final touch.

Of course, lighting is important in the bedroom, too. Along with proper low lighting, add a few candles to the bedside table or drawers—we love these Diptyque candles.

4. Make your patio your picnic paradise

If weather permits, take your Valentine’s Day outside with an adorable picnic on the patio or porch. While you may have had your share of socially-distanced picnics this past summer, there are ways to make this one extra meaningful for just the two of you.

Grab a throw blanket that works for the outdoors and start setting up.

Have some of your snacks plated and ready to go—a beautifully arranged charcuterie board with cheese, nuts, fruits, and more should be on your list for an upgraded picnic experience. Pair it with your favorite wine, a new vintage, or if you’re on a budget, we’ve got you covered on how to find the best wine for less.

If you have a fire pit, cozy up with your throw by the warm fire and roast some marshmallows for delicious s’mores to end the night.

If temperatures are unbearably cold or rain interferes with your plans, don’t be discouraged—this picnic date can work in your living room, too.

5. Host a movie night in

While a movie date in the theaters isn’t likely this year, sometimes a movie night at home can be even better.

Get comfy by adding some new pillows and plush throw blankets on the couch.

For a high-quality movie night, consider upgrading your TV tech before the big night. If you’re already in need of a new TV, Reviewed’s got you covered with the best TVs we’ve tested.

To achieve the surround sound you may be missing from the theaters, consider investing in a soundbar to drastically improve your movie’s audio.

Don’t forget the snacks! Popcorn is a must for a movie night—to step up the popcorn, try using your own popcorn kernels and a popcorn maker like this Cuisinart Pop and Serve or ordering some ahead of time from Just Pop In.