Romantic Fireside Valentine's Dinner

A Warm Welcome

Greet guests with a cozy fireside dinner, inviting all to linger long past the completion of the meal.

Faux coral limbs wrapped with rustic rope around a tall spray of votive candles give just enough nautical flare without interfering with table talk. Use a plant stand to make a wispy floral design of coral-colored roses and sweet-smelling eucalyptus.

Ecru-and-red dish towels imprinted with lobsters hang on the back of each guest’s chair to present a dressier approach to the traditional plastic lobster bib.

Hostess tip: Be inventive when you share your home with friends; it’s much more personal than dining in a restaurant and will bring friends closer together in a more comfortable environment.