By Noelle Sharbaugh, High Heeled Hostess
This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love your way—ditch the clichés, shake up traditions, and do what fills your heart. Whether indulging in a cozy solo night, toasting friendship at a Galentine’s bash, or planning an intimate evening with your partner, make this day as unique as the love you’re celebrating.
Welcome to the third installment of my six-part series on mastering the art of hosting. Here are five ways to create an amazing Valentine’s celebration, no matter your plans.
1. Set the Mood
Ambiance is everything; tailor it to your vibe:
Flying Solo: Create a self-care sanctuary. Snuggle up with a blanket, a favorite movie, and a drink of choice—or treat yourself to a bubble bath and face mask.
With Friends: Bring the fun with heart-themed décor—think balloons, pops of red and pink, and festive table settings.
With Your Partner: Dial up the romance with dim lighting, flowers, and candles. Add personal touches like handwritten notes or a playlist of your favorite tunes.
2. Food That Speaks to the Heart
Good food is the ultimate love language:
Solo: Experiment with a new recipe, or indulge in decadent desserts like molten lava cake or chocolate-covered strawberries.
With Friends: Serve a grazing board with cheeses, fruits, chocolates, and heart-shaped mini pizzas. Consider a Wine and Cheese or Wine and Chocolate tasting for a fun activity.
With Your Partner: Prepare or order a three-course meal, and finish with a dessert like crème brûlée or fondue.
3. Raise a Glass to Love
Toast to love with a signature drink:
Solo: Sip on bubbly or a sparkling elderflower mocktail. Toast your magnificence.
With Friends: Set up a DIY cocktail station with love-themed options like “Cupid’s Kiss” (prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and fresh raspberries).
With Your Partner: Share a bottle of wine, champagne, or create a custom Valentine’s cocktail together.
4. Plan Activities with Heart
Thoughtful activities elevate any soirée:
Solo: Enjoy a movie marathon, start that book you’ve wanted to read, or journal your thoughts.
With Friends: Try a wine and cheese tasting, host a DIY bouquet-making station, or play lighthearted games.
With Your Partner: Exchange love notes, cook together, or plan your dream getaway. Add fun with relationship trivia.
5. A Sweet Ending
Leave a lasting impression with a thoughtful touch:
Solo: Treat yourself to something special, like a new book, jewelry, or a framed photo.
With Friends: Send guests home with heart-shaped cookies or mini succulents.
With Your Partner: End the evening with a heartfelt gift or a magical moment, like stargazing.
Love Is Worth Celebrating
Valentine’s Day is about creating moments that make you smile, laugh, and feel cherished–not about grand gestures. Hosting a personalized Valentine’s soirée is the perfect way to celebrate and make lasting memories, whether you’re raising a glass to yourself, your friends, or the one you love most.
Noelle Sharbaugh, the High Heeled Hostess, is a published and award-winning tablescape designer dedicated to helping people transform dining experiences into unforgettable events. For more tips, tricks, and hosting inspiration, visit www.highheeledhostess.com/, or email her at noelle@highheeledhostess.com
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