Image courtesy of Jonathan Adler
This is the time of year when one minor holiday falls into the next and, in all honesty, Valentine’s Day tends to sneak up on me. Before having kids, I always thought of it as a “Hallmark” holiday and I didn’t get very excited about it. But, once my kids reached school age, they really got into the spirit. They love making Valentine’s Day cards for their classmates and look forward to the conversation heart and chocolate candies that we typically have around our house. So, this year, I decided to put a little extra effort into getting into the spirit. With a few well-placed, subtle, accessories, it is easy to feel the love.
Ceramic Heart Mug with matching platter and plates and other matching accessories
Heart Cookie Platter with matching mugs and plates
For day to day, I love the cute mugs and cookie platters above. The heart motifs are not overwhelming so I would use them for 3-4 weeks before the holiday. And, it would be nice to bring them out year after year. Each of the patterns above has a variety of tableware pieces for someone who wants to really wants to celebrate, but I think the mugs or platters would pair nicely with my white everyday china.
Generally, Valentine’s Day involves me preparing a special meal for the family. I hate paying the high restaurant prices that the day commands, especially because the food is generally sub-par on the day itself. The meal varies from year to year, but the dessert is usually either a flourless chocolate cake or chocolate soufflé. The heart-shaped cocottes above would be perfect for either dish.
If you want to step it up even more, why not add a few pink or red pillow covers or a faux fur through to your living space. I think the trick here is being subtle. No one wants to walk into a home that is covered in hearts for a month (and, no one really wants to live in that house). But, adding an accessory here and there is a fun way to get into the spirit.
And, while your at it, don’t forget Fido. Let’s face it, he is probably the only one in the house who really loves you unconditionally anyway. At the very least, he doesn’t talk back.
