The art of setting your table, well… artfully is not to be sniffed at – it’s a serious business for serious hosts.

And with Valentine’s Day swiftly approaching, anybody looking to enjoy a date night or Galentine’s guests over might want to start prepping their tablescape plan. According to Secret Linen Store, 40% of people in the UK intend to cook a special meal at home on Valentine’s Day this year, but how many have considered how they’ll set the scene for an intimate meal in?

There are lots of ways to add a touch of romance to your tablescape without going overboard, so we’re looking at a few choice table accessories here and there instead of investing in a whole new set of crockery and cutlery.

Here are some top tips from those in the know on how to set up the perfect Valentine’s Day tablescape.

You don’t have to stick to pinks and reds

“Valentine’s Day is a personal occasion, so I recommend personalising your tablescape colour scheme to reflect that,” says home interiors writer and content creator Claire Douglas. “If your Valentine is a fan of the classic pink and red combo that’s great, but if they appreciate a different approach – maybe green and whites, vibrant jewel tones or pale pastels – then I recommend embracing that look for a Valentine’s table with a twist. Without customisation, Valentine’s Day decorations can run the risk of being a little clichè, so adding a personal touch guarantees a unique look your diner will appreciate.”

Pick a theme first

Douglas recommends: “Pick a theme and select colours that resonate with you and your diner(s). Then select materials, textures and accessories that enhance your chosen theme. Incorporate your diner’s favourite flowers or blooms with special significance (eg wedding bouquet flowers) into napkins, candles or the tablecloth. You can even base the theme on a shared place, such as a first date spot or vacation destination, by centring the food, drink, music and decor around that location. Sketch out a rough plan allowing enough space for table essentials so you know how much space you have to play with. If you have a small table with limited space, consider using the space above or around the table as well.”

Add a nod to Valentine’s Day

While you might not want your table to scream Valentine’s Day, a nod to the day can still be done in a stylish and thoughtful way. Heart details are a great way to do this without veering into cheesy territory – try heart-shaped folded napkins, hand-painted candlesticks, an embroidered tablecloth or table runner or heart-shaped ramekins for nibbles.

Add depth with layers

“Layer up your table decorations by placing items at varying heights for interest,” says Douglas. “Tall candles are a great way to add height as well as atmosphere and can set a romantic mood. Handwritten place cards can be created from pieces of card or more unusual materials like wallpaper offcuts, hand-printed paper, fabric remnants, leaves collected on a romantic walk or even on the back of romantic photos. Make sure not to overcrowd the table with decorations and leave space for plates and glasses. Ensure you set the scene with your partner’s favourite music and appeal to all senses.”

Get thrifty

Douglas says: “If you’re on a budget, opt for a pared-back ‘less is more’ approach with perhaps a statement floral centrepiece or rustic homemade decorations and accessories. Forage flowers that can be dried and scattered over the table for free to make table confetti. Using a linen bedsheet as a tablecloth can save money and create a luxe look. If buying new tableware, avoid anything too obviously Valentine-themed. That way, the candles, glasses, napkins, crockery and cutlery can all be used again. Finally, look at charity shops to find preloved or vintage tableware to adorn your Valentine’s table.”

Find an accent colour that pops

“Stick to the designated colour palette and use materials that will complement rather than clash,” says Douglas, “but perhaps add an accent colour to ensure your tablescape really pops. This could be in the form of striking candlesticks or bold napkins that bring out one of the colours in your flower arrangements. If you are styling your tablescape for an intimate dinner, I wouldn’t feel restricted by the decor in the room as this is an opportunity to indulge in escapism and make the table the focal point. With low lighting in the room and flickering candles casting light and shadows over your thoughtfully curated tablescape, practicalities will be far from your mind.”

Images: Ruggable