Every home has a story, and they are as vast and varied as the world is wide. But they all start with inspiration, and inspiration starts with our surroundings. That’s what home is. Family. Friends. A sense of place. An amazing view. It is all part of what makes a space a home because your home is where you truly live. As homeowners ourselves we understand that your best life begins with a home that inspires you.
(This page includes affiliate links – our full disclosure statement is available {here}
“I saw that you were perfect, and so I loved you. Then I saw that you were not perfect and I loved you even more. “
-Angelita Lim
When’s the last time you swept someone off their feet?
If your answer is “it’s been a while,” it’s time for something extravagant! We’re here to help, so we’ve compiled a handful of amazing romantic dinner ideas guaranteed to bring the wow-factor. Keep reading for inspiration in all kinds of locations.
The Garden
Nothing says love like eating amongst the flowers. Treat your date to a fairytale experience by hanging candles, string lights, and paper lanterns from the trees and plants. It’ll create a warm glow as the daylight fades. Next, set up a table and cover it with flowers; you are in a garden after all! Choose a floral centerpiece to keep it classic or collect petals and scatter them on the table. When it comes to the meal, keep it light and fresh to echo the garden’s natural allure.
At The Pool
Capture the mood of a romantic resort with dinner by a candlelit pool. It transforms from splash zone to sweet retreat with the help of tea-light candles. Float them in the pool by the dozens for an awe-inspiring effect. Add blankets and pillows piled high at the water’s edge. Snuggle up! Finally, serve exotic cocktails in sunset colors to make your date feel like a passionate getaway.
In A Tent
Take advantage of a tent’s natural coziness by setting up dinner inside. This unique take on dinner is even more special when you line the inside with candles to set the tent aglow. Fill the tent with cozy cushions for maximum snuggling and keep your date warm with marshmallow heart hot chocolate. Tea with heart-shaped sugar cubes works too. Bonus points if you warm up together by a campfire!
At The Beach
Set up a picturesque dinner for two while you watch the sun set into the waves. Make the meal stunning from the get-go by lining the path to it with candles. If a picnic is what you’re after, make it beachy-romantic with classy towels and pink-hued shells (they’re the beach version of flower petals!) Oysters are a natural choice for their aphrodisiac quality. If your date’s not into seafood, artichokes and avocados are also known for their love-sparking qualities!
At The Park
Dinner al fresco has a naturally dreamy feel. Capitalize on a park’s natural beauty by displaying candles on tree stumps, in flower beds, and other natural features. If you want to feel like you’re in a private paradise, seek out a tall set of trees or plants to dine behind. Chocolate dipped strawberries are a classic end to a romantic dinner. Try eating them while stargazing for a sweet finish to the night.
Dinner In Bed
Try dinner in bed for a flirty upgrade on the breakfast classic. If you have a big headboard or over-bed shelf, it’s an ideal place to line up tall candlesticks. If not, try carefully arranging them around the foot of the bed. To lessen messiness, serve dinner on trays topped with flowers, silk napkins, and other pretty garnishes. If the thought of food in bed still isn’t for you, enjoy a glass of wine between the sheets before moving to a table for food.
On The Balcony
A private dinner in fresh air makes for an enchanting evening. If you already have potted plants on your balcony, incorporate some candles between them to up the romance ante. If your balcony has a pleasant view, arrange the table and chairs so both you and your date can see it. Ideally, this means sitting close together! Finally, be prepared for cool weather as the evening closes in. Have luxurious blankets, hot drinks, and a warm embrace at the ready.
Dinner On A Pier
There’s nothing more special than enjoying the coastal breeze with your loved one. Take in the view from a candlelit seaside restaurant, or bring your own picnic to the pier. A blanket, foldable chairs, and a bottle of wine are a must for picnicking. You can set the mood with a lantern, and time your dinner so that you can watch the sunset. Bonus points if you decorate with candles in coordinating yellows, reds, and oranges.
Your Backyard
Create an idyllic candlelit meal in your own backyard! Sometimes, there’s nothing more relaxing than enjoying a nice meal at home. Be sure to pick an evening with the perfect weather, and If you have a patio, hang string lights for an added touch of enchantment. Steaks on the grill add a sizzle to your night. Pair with red wine!
On A Boat
Is there anything more dream-like than floating on the water in a candlelit boat? Just because it may rock and rollick doesn’t mean you should skip the flames. Just display candles in a weighted holder to prevent any dangerous tipping. Use the boat’s limited space as an excuse to keep things simple and cozy. Forego the elaborate table settings in place of simple flatware and a delicious meal. Serve salmon and wine to keep with the romantic nautical theme.
Wherever you choose go all out. Make it special. Perhaps this becomes your monthly bucket date night list. If you have more ideas and or wish to chare with us your next romantic dinner do so in the comments section below.