In life before kids, Valentine’s Day used to mean a weekend away to a nice hotel or, at the very least, dinner & drinks at a local restaurant but when you have little ones this isn’t quite as easy and sometimes you’ll find yourself celebrating your time as a couple at home instead. However, this doesn’t mean it can’t be just as beautiful and romantic.
The Food
For some reason, my favourite meal for Valentine’s Day is steak and chips. I think it’s because I still consider steak, especially fillet, to be such a treat. I know you don’t actually need to spend a lot of money these days to get a decent cut but it is a special day so splashing out on a lovely fillet is fitting, especially if you’re saving money staying home on V Day.
For pudding, surely it can only be chocolate? Something gooey and melty works best for me or why not go traditional (not corny, traditional) and create a dipping station of melted chocolate and fresh fruit. These adorable heart-shaped bowls would work beautifully.
Or if you love baking, give these white chocolate-dipped shortbreads a try? If you want to feel particularly chefy why not serve them up on this beautiful heart-shaped wooden board too?
The Mood
I’m a little crazy for candles and I’ve actually lost count of how many I now own but I don’t think it’s possible to have too many and I love these two from Wilko – such an amazing price and just so cute, rustic and romantic.
The concrete heart candle is a great size with two wicks for extra romantic impact! I really love the shabby chic style. Similarly, this frosted glass lantern is absolutely adorable and such a reasonable price you could actually buy several and decorate the whole house. Wilko also now stock tea lights in different scents – we’ve been favouring these lavendar ones lately.
The Gifts
This double photo frame is perfect for Valentine’s Day but also a lovely decor piece throughout the year. The heart-shaped mounts are ideal for photos of you as a couple or, alternatively, you can use pretty patterned craft paper to make the frames into a decorative piece as I have here.
I’m obsessed with stationery and I know I’m not alone. I’ve been loving Wilko’s stationery ranges over the last year or so – lovely modern patterns for only a fraction of the price of other high street and online stationers. This Reminisce set is so pretty and includes xxx, plus this matching desk organiser is great for keeping your work area tidy, especially if you work from home.
No gift is complete without something to satisfy a sweet tooth. This Chupa Chups lolly bouquet is so unique and a fun alternative to flowers. And I love the retro look & style of this Love Hearts gift tin.
The Fun
Just because you’re at home on Valentine’s Day, it doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Why not get cozy with a beautiful blanket and a heartfelt movie (check out some of the inspirational films I featured a few weeks ago). Maybe create your own wine-tasting evening or get giggling with a game. It doesn’t really matter what you do as long as you’re investing in your time together. Parenting is hard and it can be so tough to find time to focus on your relationship, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to ensure you do.
Disclaimer: This is a collaborative post with Wilko.
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The Evolution Of The Post-Baby Relationship
Malteser & Honeycomb Cheesecake
I would never have considered Wilko as a go-go place for Valentine’s Day-inspired treats and eecorations but I may just be paying them a visit this weekend!