Planning a Romantic Dinner

Perhaps you've fallen in love with your boyfriend and you want to tell him in a special way. Or maybe it's Valentine's Day and you want to share a wonderful evening with your girlfriend. Or possibly you want to show how much you love your wife and have decided to surprise her in an extraordinary way. Or perhaps you've decided that you want more of a commitment in your relationship and you've decided to pop the question. While reserving a table at a fancy restaurant—even a four-star restaurant—would signal that a significant event is about to take place, planning a romantic dinner at home says "I love you" on a deeper level.

There is more to cooking a romantic dinner than throwing a few steaks on the grill and chilling a bottle of wine, however. Planning a romantic dinner involves actual planning and preparation, especially if you want it to be a surprise for your spouse or date. Here are some tips for planning your next romantic dinner:

• Check availability. If you are planning a surprise, or even if you aren't make sure that your schedules don't conflict. Arrange a specific time for your dinner, pencil it into your calendar, or arrange to send an invitation to create a mood of anticipation.
• Plan your menu. Consider what your date likes to eat, and plan your menu accordingly. If you both drink alcohol, research what types of wine compliment your main course. If you plan to cook the dinner yourself, make a trial run a few weeks in advance to ensure that you know how to cook the food. You could also order the food and have it delivered—but remember to transfer the food to real dishes for serving!
• Arrange transportation. For an extra special dinner, arrange to have your husband or wife picked up from the office in a taxi or a limo. Call ahead and have a friend or neighbor bring your date to your home or apartment in their car. Out of the ordinary transportation will enhance the romance.
• Create an atmosphere. Use your best china, crystal, and flatware to lay your table. If you don't have good dishes, arrange ahead of time to borrow some. Create a romantic atmosphere with candles, mood music, soft lighting, and delicious aromas.
• Dress appropriately. A romantic evening requires nearly formal clothing. Make sure that your guest knows the dress code, too.

As the dinner begins, compliment your guest on his choice of attire, and thank him for taking time to have dinner with you. Be attentive to her needs, offering her more food and beverage. Don't forget dessert. If you want to create passion later on in the boudoir with your spouse, perhaps you could take strawberries and chocolate with you!