Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate love than by infusing your home with romantic decorations? After the gray skies we’ve had since New Years, our eyes–and hearts–deserve a little boost. Whether you’re planning a cozy evening in with your significant other or hosting a Galentine’s Day gathering with friends, here are some creative ideas to set the mood.
- DIY Heart Wreath: Create a charming heart-shaped wreath to welcome guests at your doorstep. Head to local craft stores like Michaels or Dollar Tree to gather supplies such as wire wreath frames, faux flowers, and ribbons. Follow online tutorials or get creative with your own design!
- Candlelit Dinner: Plan a special menu and then transform your dining area into a romantic oasis with soft candlelight. Support local shops like Wildwood Home in Zionsville or Sullivan Hardware & Garden for unique candles. Or if you were planning to make a reservation, it might be too late. The shoulder dates, however, might work just as well. If you want something different, try an igloo experience through Vivante French Eatery along the Monon Trail in Carmel. They have a minimum pricing, so make sure to check all of the details. Seatings are available at 5:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.
- Love-Themed Throw Pillows: Spruce up your couch or bed with love-themed throw pillows. You can easily find heart-shaped pillows or ones with romantic quotes at stores like At Home, West Elm, or Pottery Barn in Indianapolis. Anything with a pop of color will brighten your month and last into spring.
- DIY Love Garland: Get crafty with a DIY love garland to hang across your fireplace mantel or staircase railing. Use materials like twine, cardstock, and clothespins to create a personalized display of love notes or photos. Check for online inspiration and get creative with your designs! Leave notes of affirmation for your loved ones, or share a little self-love with your favorite person–YOU!
- DIY Messages: Anytime during the month of February is a good time to tell those around you how much you love them. This simple but meaningful message is a great way to tell your children how much you love them each and every day.
- Local Artisan Chocolates: Treat yourself and your loved ones to decadent chocolates from local artisans like The Best Chocolate in Town or The South Bend Chocolate Company. Arrange them in elegant boxes or display them on decorative trays for a sweet touch to your Valentine’s Day decor.
- Floral Arrangements: Fresh flowers never fail to add romance to any space. Visit Indianapolis Flower Market or McNamara Florist to pick out beautiful blooms like roses, tulips, or lilies. Arrange them in vases or mason jars around your home for a touch of natural beauty. Or another option is to make your own flowers. Try out the Oberer’s Flowers Design classes for a lasting bouquet that you made yourself.
- Cozy Blanket Fort: Create a cozy blanket fort in your living room for a playful and intimate Valentine’s Day experience. Kids, especially, will love this. Drape blankets over furniture and add cushions and fairy lights for a magical ambiance. Snuggle up with your loved one and enjoy a movie marathon or a heartfelt conversation–or even eat dinner there!
With these creative and romantic decorating ideas, you can turn your Indianapolis home into a sanctuary from the cold, dreary winter. Whether you prefer DIY projects, local shopping, or drawing inspiration from Pinterest, there are plenty of ways to celebrate love and create lasting memories with those you love.