Preorder Food
This year’s Val falls on a Sunday. Weekend Val dates should mean more time to spend with that special someone but working couples push most of their cleaning and cooking chores to weekend. As a result, most are almost as exhausted on weekends as they are on weekdays. My advice? Make an exception for Val’s Day so you don’t come to the dinner table looking haggard and stressed out. Delegate all the cooking you planned for the day so that you can rest your feet and relax. Don’t roll your eyes at me oh! There’s no award for sufferhead. Therefore, check the restaurants that offer home delivery services and make your life easier by placing your order in time.Sign up to the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
Make Dinner More Interesting than Usual
Dinner at home will be boring if you serve the typical Nigerian fare of main dish and water. Thus, you need to spice things up and fortunately, you won’t have to break the bank to do this. A small glass of fresh juice can serve as appetiser. After the main dish, a slice of cake, some yoghurt parfait or chocolate can serve as dessert.If you must Cook, Keep it Simple
Making a dish you know can save you a lot of stress on a date night. Thus, when planning the menu, stick with the familiar. Resist the temptation of experimenting with new food. It may not turn out well and even if it does, there’s a possibility that your date may not like it. Also, you might want to go easy on the pepper and garlic. Unless you are sure that everyone on the table can handle it.Set the Table Beautifully
On special days, ambience is everything. So, make an effort. Remove the flask, the beverage containers and everything else that has taken up residence on your dining table. A clean, nice table cloth and some candles can transform the regular to the romantic. If you now add flowers and love notes, you have finished work. Just arrange the platter of food neatly on the table and when you are ready to eat, dim the lights and light the candles; the stage is set for a romantic dinner at home.Involve the Kids in the Celebration
Most couples with kids want to celebrate special occassions like this one away from the kids. But if you can’t find anyone to take care of your kids while you enjoy some alone time with your spouse, make the most of it. Explain what the celebration is all about and get the kids involved in the festivities. Make some minor adjustments and if you are cooking, let them assist. They can help you set the table too. Just keep your best dinner wares away from them and for safety reasons, skip the candle lightening. Make them dress up for the occassion and you all can have fun as a family.Leave your Phone Alone
If someone is spending time with you, you are special. If someone made the effort to cook or primp for you, you are special. The least you can do is to appreciate that effort by focusing on your partner and the food. Don’t let your phone ruin your date night. Put it away and actually connect one on one with your date. In conclusion, a beautiful Valentine Day’s celebration has nothing to do with location and everything to do with love, mindset and effort. Wishing you a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration.Got a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
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