Valentine's Day on the Patio
Posted by Fortunoff Backyard Store
No reservation needed.
Roses are red. Violets are blue, so why not host your Valentine’s Day where the flowers grow too? Romeo and Juliet met in a garden, so why not reserve your V-day plans on the patio?
This year, the love holiday falls on a Wednesday. It’s not an ideal day of the week for celebrating a holiday that often requires a dinner reservation. Still with a little planning, you can make this Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day swoon-worthy regardless of your relationship status. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Set the Mood with Lighting
Whether you’re getting together with friends or a partner, don’t think a soft glow should be exclusive to a romantic setting. Proper lighting can elevate any event, but in this case, soft lighting is the way to go. The warmer the hue, the better. It’s Valentine’s Day, after all, so break out the candles. Everyone has a few lying around the house, so grab them and bring ‘em outside.
Don’t like candles? Not a problem. Tea lights, torches, or even our outdoor lanterns can create a nice glow with minimal investment, but if you’re already in the market, nothing beats a fire pit. A roaring fire is inherently romantic. It provides heat and the perfect lighting for capturing those envy-inspiring selfies. Fortunoff Backyard Store carries wood-burning and gas fire pits in multiple styles, so just like assorted chocolates, you’ve got options.
2. Make It Cozy
Cozy is a feeling. When creating a comfortable atmosphere or space, you want to start with texture. Blankets and throw pillows are a must. A fur throw screams love and luxury and plays well in an outdoor setting—even if it’s faux. Fleece is also an excellent option. It’s soft to the touch, and most people already have a fleece blanket in their homes. Let’s remember, people, Valentine’s Day takes place in winter. Heat is a priority. A cute blanket will keep you warm and earn you style points from your guests.
Outdoor Throw Pillows & Patio Heaters
For throw pillows, outdoor accent pillows are your best bet. They’re designed to be spilled on and tossed around. You and your invitees can relax on them without worry. Sip your red wine. Eat your chocolate-covered strawberries. Our patio throw pillows and patio cushions are plush and stain resistant. They even come in hues perfect for the 14th, making them as topical as they are functional.
The finishing touch for your cozy Valentine’s soiree should be a patio heater. It’s an outdoor-hosting essential for the season. An outdoor heater or fire pit frees people up to have a good time instead of counting the seconds until they can go inside.
DID YOU KNOW:
Sweethearts, also known as Conversation Hearts, are the most popular non-chocolate Valentine's Day candy.
3. Plan a Fun Activity
A date is hardly a date without an activity, so why not flip the classics on their heads? Instead of paying a premium for a prix fixe menu, host a backyard picnic or dinner under the stars. You’ve already done the work to establish your ambiance. All that’s left to do is plan a menu and your tablescape. Festive, throwaway plates and cups work in a pinch, but outdoor glasses and dishes make for a more environmentally conscious choice and are reusable, shatterproof, and dishwasher safe. We highly recommend shatterproof dishware outdoors, but especially for picnics. A stray kick or yanked blanket won’t have you rushing to clean up broken glass, leaving you to focus on more important things–like your company.
A movie isn’t out of the question, either. Grab a Bluetooth-compatible projector and shine your favorite RomCom on the side of your house if space allows. You can even bring some Adirondack chairs for more structured seating or the aptly named outdoor loveseat. Your date will appreciate the effort, and let’s be honest: experience gifts will trump flowers and a box of chocolates any day of the week.
Let us know how these tips worked in your space by tagging us on social media. Use hashtag #fortunoffbys for a chance to be featured. Looking for more patio tips? Subscribe to our newsletter.
