Photos by Christen Jones
Fast-forward to Thursday, February 14, 2019.
Tired from a long day at the office? Not in the mood to pay a babysitter for a weeknight? Forgot to make that Catherine & Mary’s dinner reservation?
Put the kids to bed (or close the laptop screen), kick your feet up on the coffee table, and celebrate Valentine’s Day with your special someone in an organic, authentic way — in the comfort of your home with a pure sense of presence for the moment, for the quality time together.
Scroll for my steps for a memorable, achievable spread for two, served among and atop Bella Vita’s finest dishes and accessories.
1. A CHARCUTERIE BOARD + PAIR OF WINE GLASSES
A mini board for two, perhaps? This small square reclaimed wood trivet is a beautiful base for Valentine’s hues such as cascading soppressata salami slices, dried cranberry crackers, and a cranberry preserves-covered goat cheese. An extra component of earthiness is achieved through a raw almond and walnut medley. The brie, anchoring the board both visually and texturally, is extra special for the occasion when shaped into a heart. Simply use your knife to score the round before getting started!
I am such a fan of these gray pottery wine cups by Etta B, whose shape and substance create a sense of coziness even before the fire gets started. A rich red wine (our shared favorite is a Cabernet Franc) will last the evening without too much jamminess or acidity.
2. A COZY FIREPLACE + BLANKET
February can be a frigid time of year, but extra layers (especially those to share) are bonus romantic points for Valentine’s Day! Cozy up to the fireplace—or simply in front of your TV or your record player—with a Bella Notte Valentina Wedding blanket in white white. Sawyer was especially a fan of the lightly padded charmeuse fabric with silk ruffles.
3. A BOWL OF SHARED PASTA, LADY & THE TRAMP STYLE
Save the extra dishes by grabbing an Etta B mini casserole dish and two forks to swirl your tagliatelle with garlic and olive oil, parmesan and blistered tomatoes. Easy but elegant, a pasta dish for two is the ultimate Valentine’s Day love language.
4. A BOHO BOUQUET OF FLORALS
Though I totally respect a traditional take on any occasion, you won’t see a dozen red roses near me. Instead, I love using Valentine’s as a chance to mix things up, perhaps even reflect the personality or style of your Valentine! To lend a hand to those like my sweet husband Alex, Kristin with Everbloom Design is popping up on Valentine’s Day at Muddy’s Midtown and in her Broad Avenue studio, providing pre-ordered and last-minute arrangements for same-day pick-up. Choose between a wrapped bouquet or vased arrangement to add a sophisticated element to your at-home romantic scene.
Tag me in your Instagram stories if you adopt any of these tips! You have two weeks to perfect the details (or completely ignore the holiday until the day-of, which is totally acceptable, too). xo
This post is brought to you by Bella Vita. And thank you, Everbloom Designs, for the flowers! Thank you for being supportive of my sponsors.