Whether you’re dating, newly married or married for years, it’s important to take time for a romantic dinner occasionally. Since your significant other is one of the most important people in your life, let them know it! It’s actually easier than you think, and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

Everyone has a favorite way to eat dinner. Some like it to be formal at a candle-lit table. Others prefer sitting on the floor on big, comfy cushions. Still others enjoy being outside under the stars. Whichever you choose, the ideas below will help you make it a night to remember:

• Romantic Decor
  Dim the overhead lights and light candles all around to start the evening right. Then go on to dinner:
  • For an elegant feel in the dining room, go all out and use the “good stuff” — cloth napkins and tablecloth, your finest crystal, china and silverware. Fold the napkins like a fan or roll them tightly and tie into a knot.
  • Make outdoor dining sparkle by hanging brightly colored lanterns or stringing small, white lights — like the ones used during Christmastime — on trees or porch railings. Spread a blanket for a picnic or set your patio table.
  • For lounging on the floor, lay out a big tablecloth, set it with pillar candles on a plate or tray — so they won’t fall over — and use a variety of patterned plates, glasses and silverware.
  • Float gardenias in small bowls of water and put one near each of your plates — much more unique than a traditional bouquet.
• Fabulous Food
  Match the food you serve with the atmosphere you create:
  • The romantic dinner at the table features several courses — appetizer, salad, main course and dessert — like at a fancy restaurant. That doesn’t mean it has to be complicated. Simply add special touches like a sauce or fresh herbs to your main course or side dishes.
  • If you’re going to celebrate on a blanket in the backyard or a park, picnic-style chicken, corn on the cob and cheese muffins set the right tone.
  • A meal on the floor consists of many small dishes with one big one. Try a beef casserole or chicken stew and appetizer-size bowls of vegetables, rice, dates and olives.
• Delicious Drinks and Dessert
  Forget your diet tonight and enjoy a special beverage and a fabulous finish to the meal:
  • Champagne: Nothing says “romance” as much as champagne. It comes in all price ranges and turns any meal into a party.
  • Dessert: Prepare something you wouldn’t normally make, like chocolate mousse or a warm chocolate cake (both come in a mix). Add whipped cream. If you prefer something lighter, get a smaller, sized-for-two melon. Cut it in half zigzag fashion. Scoop the fruit into little balls and return it to the melon with a bit of flavored syrup.
• The Final Touches:
  This is your special night. Make the most of it by including the following in your plan:
  • Send the kids packing: Ask your mother-in-law or neighbor to take care of the kids for a few hours
  • Get dolled up: Ditch those jeans and T-shirt for something that makes you feel great. Ask your partner to dress up, too.
  • Put on your favorite tunes: Dance in the living room, under the stars or out on the porch or lawn in between bites of dessert and sips of champagne before calling it a night
  • Take your time: Eat slowly, talk about something other than the kids’ next doctor appointments or the leak in the roof. Hold hands, look into each other’s eyes and don’t think about tomorrow.

It’s important to take the time to show your loved one that you care! You have all the basics now. What happens next is up to you!