Plan ahead.

Choose your recipes ahead of time and keep it simple. Make as much as you can beforehand so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your favorite guy or gal.

 
Take a break from the kids.

Yes, we love them, but every now and then, we all need a romantic night without the kids. Ask a friend or family member to babysit at their house.

Dim the lights.

Time to turn down the lights and crank up the romance factor! Light candles on the table and around the room to create just the right mood.

 
Don't forget music!

Create a playlist or CD of songs that have meaning to both of you and play it softly in the background.

Fondue it.

Fondue is a great, simple way to make sure you and your Valentine are close and connecting all during the meal. Try dipping strawberries, slices of mango and cubes of cake and brownies in dark chocolate.

Set the table.

Time for bringing out the best.  If you've got one, use a tablecloth, your best dishes and add some fresh flowers.

Get rid of any distractions.

The world can wait.  Tonight, turn off your phone and computer, and keep the focus on each other.

Serve "love foods."

Set the mood with honey, oysters, bananas, chocolate, almonds, avocado, figs, carrots, pineapple, strawberries, asparagus or vanilla.

Dress to impress.

Who says you have to go out to get dressed up? Go ahead, dress to the nines–it'll make the meal more special.

Let it go.

Don’t let a mess-up in the kitchen ruin your night. Remember what your goal is here: to enjoy each other’s company.