(from DerBingle: Anniversary or not this is a good start to an ideal romantic dinner…)  

by Scham JohnsonYoung

If your anniversary is coming up and you always wanted to plan a romantic dinner for two, this is your chance. A home cooked meal by candlelight is a great way to show your significant other that you care and want to do something extra special for them. Planning this dinner takes some creativity but if you take the time to plan ahead it can be a very intimate and romantic night in, so go for it.

Once you’ve decided on a date for your dinner, the first step is to formally invite your significant other. You can purchase an invitation, or, if you’re feeling creative, you can make your own.

Consider coming up with a theme for your dinner and integrate this theme into your invitation. Using a blank or hand made card evokes a more formal, old fashioned feel, which can contribute to the romance of it all. Be sure to include all the details in your invitation: time, date, location, etc.

You may wish to include some more enticing information depending on the theme of your evening or your plans for the night.

Sending an invitation sets the tone for a truly romantic evening. A formal invite can be fun, even if you live with your significant other.

If a written invitation seems too over the top, an email or voicemail invite would be fine, just be sure to request their presence using romantic language!

Flowers are a must for this type of romantic evening and roses are the gold standard for romantic flowers. You can either give the flowers as a gift for your special person or you can use them as decoration on the table.

Another nice idea is to leave them next to the bed to create a romantic atmosphere even after you have left the table.

Candles are another way of transforming a room from dull and utilitarian everyday to a romantic escape. If you have a live in partner be sure to lure them away for a few minutes so you can light the candles and usher them in for a nice surprise.

Be sure to pull out your fanciest candlesticks just for the occasion crystal or silver work best but anything festive or special will do. Place the candles throughout the rooms you will be in during your romantic evening and be sure to pick a sent you know your loved one likes for an added special touch.

You should definitely have some soft music playing in the background to set a soothing mood, as well. If you don’t want to have music with overly romantic lyrics, try something instrumental that is ambient or soothing. This can be a nice change from what you usually listen too.

When it comes to the meal, always start with a light appetizer or salad. Any food that can be eaten with your fingers is fun to have, as well, because those typed of food can be fed to each other.

Try to stay away from foods that are prepared using a lot of garlic, onions or other foods that have strong odors. You will also want to avoid serving rich or heavy foods that will fill you up really full and make you uncomfortable and sleepy after you eat.

Regardless of how long you’ve been together, everyone appreciates when their special someone recognizes the anniversary in a romantic way. The extra touches, like flowers and gifts, can really take this romantic dinner up a notch. By following these simple steps you will surely flatter and surprise your significant other, this is a great way to show that you care.