A Valentine’s Day Dinner with Friends: Love, Laughter & Community

Dear Friends,

With the world feeling heavier than ever—news filled with uncertainty, challenges pressing in from all sides—it can feel difficult to pause and celebrate. But in these moments, the power of gathering becomes even more profound. This Valentine’s Day, instead of focusing solely on romance, I have decided to embrace the love of friendship and community by hosting a dinner with good friends.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

Setting the tone for Valentine's day can be fun.  Just because this isn't a romantic dinner doesn’t mean that we can’t break out some nice china, silver flatware and beautiful glassware.  It’s actually a good time to have prissy taste in dishes as they pop up relatively often on FB Marketplace and at thrift stores (in fact, I got the china that we will be dining on from a local thrift store that benefits Project Safe, for $35!).   Most people have moved away from vintage china but I still have a soft spot for it and am excited to use it.  A bonus of buying this so cheap is that I feel less precious about it and will run it through the dishwasher, making cleanup easy.  All of the pieces I am using for the table have been purchased secondhand and the addition of candlelight, music, and seasonal floral create a space free from the distractions of daily stress. 

Decorating with Intention

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be all red roses and hearts.  As I mentioned above, I am using vintage china from Poland with a pattern of pink and green roses, and will add some small touches - although I’m not entirely sure what those will be yet.  Small boxes of chocolates?  Candies? I’ll definitely do a fresh arrangement with whatever flowers are currently blooming in the garden. A mix of deep jewel tones, soft pastels, or even rustic elements can make the space feel intentional and welcoming. The important thing is to make everyone feel warm and at home.  So, if the extra details don’t materialize then I will compensate by providing ample smiles and easy hugs.

A Meal That Nourishes More Than the Body

Comforting, home-cooked food brings people together like nothing else. I saw a recipe recently on Southern Living’s website for Lemony Shrimp Pasta that sounds yummy and (relatively) easy.  I’ll make a salad, have bread and blackberries for our special 2-year-old guest!  I’m still working on dessert but it might be a decidedly “un-pinteresty” store bought Angel Food cake.  Add some strawberries and whipped cream and you have a crowd pleaser. 

A Toast to Friendship & Resilience

As my group gathers together I will remember to take a moment to acknowledge the strength found in community. In a world that can often feel isolating, these small gatherings remind us that love comes in many forms—romantic, platonic, communal. 

This Valentine’s Day, toast to friendship, laughter, and the warmth that carries us through difficult times.  Just maybe, the world’s burdens will feel a little lighter.

With love & gratitude,

Suska