Counters – Page 2 – Fully Assembled Premium Cabinetry

5 Houseplants That Improve Your Home’s Air Quality

Kitchen hoods are a must-have for eliminating cooking odors, and can help to clean the air in an open concept kitchen. But what about those nasty VOCs (volatile organic chemicals) swirling around our homes? According to the EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency), VOCs are potentially harmful gasses that can be emitted from a number of household sources, from the paint on our walls to the cleaning products we use on a daily basis. Thankfully, there is a simple, green solution to further help improve indoor air quality — houseplants! These air-purifying plants help to create a healthier environment for you and your family, and can add a touch of natural beauty to your home as well!

English Ivy

This elegant houseplant has trailing (and climbing) foliage in varying shades of green. There are several varieties to pick from, but all have been proven effective in helping to clear the air of VOCs like benzene, formaldehyde, xylene and toluene. Studies also show English Ivy can help reduce mold spores in the home. English Ivy prefers full or part sun, and can be propagated from stem cuttings.

Dracaena

Ever popular, this houseplant is known for its narrow, upright foliage that features variegated shades of green. Dracaena is low maintenance and perfect for containers. It likes indirect sunlight and can grow anywhere from one to 20 feet tall, making it perfect for your TV room cabinetry shelves or a large corner of your open concept kitchen. According to the famous NASA Clean Air Study, Dracaena is one of the best plants for removing formaldehyde from the air, as well as benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and other VOCs.

Gerbera Daisy

This spring favorite has big blossoms in bright, beautiful colors, including red, yellow, pink, white, orange, or purple! They grow well in containers and would make a lovely centerpiece for a kitchen table. Gerbera Daisies need lots of sunshine and can grow to be a foot tall or more. Unlike other plants, Gerbera Daisies continue to release oxygen throughout the night and can help improve sleep when placed in a bedroom.

Peace Lily

This tropical plant thrives in low light and can help remove benzene, trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, and other pollutants. It’s easy to care for and requires little light or water to thrive. Best of all, the Peace Lily has beautiful white flowers and shiny green leaves, making it a lovely and showy addition to the home.

Snake Plant

This air purifying houseplant has tall, dramatic foliage. According to the aforementioned NASA study, the Snake Plant absorbs formaldehyde, nitrogen oxide, benzene, xylene, and trichloroethylene. It likes lots of bright light and humidity, making it well suited for placement in a sunny bathroom window.

While these plants can help purify the air in your home, they can also be toxic, so be sure to keep them away from children and pets.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer solid wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!

The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist

Spring is the time for blooming flowers and fresh green grass — but it’s also the season for cleaning. While spring cleaning is a great way to refresh your home after a long winter, planning for a deep clean can be overwhelming. With so much to do, it’s easy to forget exactly what you want to accomplish once you get started. Having a thorough outline of tasks helps to keep you organized and motivated to get the job done.

Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are often forgotten when performing our everyday tidying up routines. After all, they can be difficult to get to, especially if you have high ceilings. But when we turn on our fans hoping for a refreshing breeze, we are actually exposing ourselves to mini dust particles that can cause allergies and irritation.

Behind Large Appliances

You might wipe down your solid wood cabinetry, countertops, and appliance surfaces daily, but when was the last time you cleaned behind your kitchen oven? Spring cleaning is a great time to move large appliances like your oven and refrigerator. While you might be pleasantly surprised by what you find, there’s a good chance crumbs and other debris have made their way under and behind your large kitchen appliances.

Carpets

Most of us vacuum our carpets on a regular basis, especially if you have dogs and children that like to play outside. But when was the last time you moved your couches and coffee tables while vacuuming? While you’re at it, use the brush attachment to remove dust from blinds and baseboards. You may not notice how dingy these home features become until you see them fresh and clean.

Flooring

Once your carpets and floors are thoroughly vacuumed, it’s time to mop your flooring. Make sure to get in all the corners and crevices. Stray crumbs and dirt piles that may have avoided the broom like to hide in the small spaces of your floors and under solid wood cabinetry.

Windows

Washing windows can become an extremely tedious task, especially if you have high ceilings or an open concept kitchen with lots of large windows. But over time, they become cloudy and streaked. There’s nothing like looking out a pristine, clear window at the outdoors during springtime.

Curtains

Many of us never think too much about washing our curtains, but they get dusty and stuffy like every other fabric in your home. If the care label says it’s okay, throw them in the wash and add some laundry scent booster —when you hang them back up your whole will be filled with the fragrance of sweet lavender fields.

Cabinets

The kitchen can be a hectic place. One minute you’re simmering some broccoli and the next your pasta sauce is bubbling to the floor. it’s easy for food to splash up or get smudged on surfaces while you’re frantically trying to control your cooking. Make sure to give your solid wood cabinetry some TLC and a good wipe down to get rid of any leftover food.

Fridge and Freezer

Is your open concept kitchen scrubbed and wiped from top to bottom but something still feels unfinished? Organizing your refrigerator and freezer is essential to feeling tidy. You’d be surprised how many expired condiments and freezer burned vegetables are hiding in the back. While you’re at it, try to create designated shelves for different food groups, and wipe any spills or crumbs that have accumulated.

Forgotten Areas

Some of the dirtiest spots in your home are actually light switches, doorknobs and remote controls. These things are constantly being touched by everybody and are often overlooked when cleaning. Even if they don’t seem dirty, make sure to disinfect anything that gets touched on a regular basis to avoid spreading any germs.

Bathtub and Shower

Scrubbing the shower and tub is vital to sustaining a tidy and fresh bathroom, but we usually opt for a light wipe down. To get rid of stubborn grime, spray or apply a cleanser that is safe for bathroom surfaces on the bathtub and shower at the beginning of your spring cleaning session. Letting the product soak in while you’re cleaning the rest of your home is a great way to help grime disintegrate and wipe off easier when it’s time to check the bathroom off of your list.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer solid wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!

How To Transition Your Home From Winter To Spring

Spring is right around the corner, which means the crisp air; blooming flowers, and warm sunshine that we all missed in the winter months are heading our way. Cold weather is perfect for snuggling up by a warm fire under a chunky blanket, but spring means the world is blossoming into a season of colorful renewal. It’s time to replace the cozy, winter decor with vibrant, fresh pieces perfect for the springtime. Here are some tips to help you transition your home from winter to spring.

Incorporate beautiful and bright spring colors.

Winter is great for shades of deep maroon and rich navy, but spring is the time to break out the light, bright hues and bring life back into your home! Playful pastels such as sunny yellow, robin’s egg blue, and crisp white will eliminate some heaviness and create a cheerful, breezy atmosphere. Changing out kitchen towels, dining room table linens, bedroom sheets, and throw pillows every few months is an easy way to incorporate more seasonally appropriate colors into your home.

Say goodbye to clutter.

Nothing is more refreshing than a tidy home. Try packing up the cinnamon scented candles and wool throws left over from winter to make room for some clean, open space. Too many things can be overwhelming and cramp your home, leaving you feeling trapped. An open concept kitchen is a great way to hold onto spring all year long, because this design provides a fresh, uncluttered environment through any season. But if your home is a bit more closed off, simply cutting down on clutter can help to open up your space.

Bring the outdoors in with fresh flowers.

Many people associate sweet-smelling flowers with the first day spring. Flowers are refreshing to the senses and add an essence of delicacy to your home. Flowers are the perfect detail to add a pop of color and liven up any room for spring. It’s as easy as arranging a few freshly cut spring blooms in a glass vase or placing a potted flowering plant by a sunny window.

Refresh your space.

If you’re renovating your home or just looking to spruce up a bit this season, solid wood cabinetry is a great place to start. Your cabinets are one of the first things people notice about your home, therefore, they are one of the most aesthetically important elements. A rustic design including monochromatic solid wood cabinetry is modern, clean, and perfect for springtime. Neutral, consistent colors create a simple yet classic look and flow that is great this time of year—and every season that follows.

Let the sunshine in.

Spring means the days are getting longer and the sun is shining brighter. Welcome that warmth inside by replacing heavy, dark drapery with sheer, airy curtains. This quick swap will illuminate and energize your home instantly, and allows you to enjoy the long, sunny days of spring, even indoors.

Simple Yet Stunning Details To Include In Your Rustic Bathroom Renovation

We can’t get enough of the rustic bathroom. This theme is luxury spa meets winter cabin retreat, resulting in a tranquil space that feels completely one with nature. If you’re considering this theme for your bathroom renovation, don’t miss these simple yet stunning details you’ll certainly want to include. From a breathtaking bathtub to wooden beams that bring it all together, we’ve got every corner covered.

Use wood or wood-look tiles as a backsplash or accent wall.

Nothing says rustic more than wood and there are so many simple ways to incorporate this natural material into your bathroom. As an alternative to stone or glass tile, wood panels make for a beautiful accent wall. They can also be used to cover a ceiling or frame a doorway. These unexpected touches will really give your guest or master bath that rustic feel. Of course, if you want to keep your bathroom easy to clean and disinfect, opt for wood-look tile as a realistic and water-resistant alternative for both walls and flooring.

Solid wood cabinetry with a natural finish helps you build a solid foundation.

Bathroom vanity cabinets are obviously a huge part of a bathroom renovation and really set the tone for the room’s theme. If wood is a material you definitely want but you’re not keen on paneling, opt for bathroom cabinets in a medium-toned, natural finish or glaze. This will allow you to achieve that rustic wood look in a more conventional way. Browse your options of bathroom vanity cabinets from Willow Lane Cabinetry here.

Opt for a freestanding bathtub for that farmhouse feel.

When you walk into a bathroom and see a freestanding soaking tub, you’re instantly transported back to an earlier time. Choose this bathtub style in your rustic bathroom and achieve that antiquated elegance and farmhouse feel.

Small touches make a big splash in a rustic bathroom.

From rubbed bronze pulls on the doors of your bathroom cabinets to the soft glow of candles placed around the room, the small touches really count when designing your rustic bathroom. Take a minute to focus in on the little details like hardware and décor, so that your renovation doesn’t fall short from a lack of accessories.

Robe hooks will make your bathroom more relaxed.

Rather than your traditional towel bar, a row of robe hooks helps in creating that laid back atmosphere that is essential with a rustic theme. This simple swap will make the room appear more welcoming and relaxed.

Stay warm all year long with a bathroom fireplace.

A bathroom fireplace is a beautiful addition to a rustic bathroom. It reminds you of the warm comfort found in a winter cabin and invites you to stay and unwind. Just imagine dipping into your freestanding bathtub with a fireplace just a few feet away. It certainly melts away the winter blues and frosty windows from your mind.

Exposed wooden ceiling beams bring it all together.

Any time you can add elements to your home design that feel truly authentic to the structure, it’s a win in our book. Exposed ceiling beams are one of those things that achieve this perfect authenticity. To bring your rustic theme all together, add wooden beams to create the illusion of an exposed ceiling. If you want a raw, country vibe that is chic and sophisticated, wooden ceiling beams have you covered quite literally.

Chic Details For A Contemporary Coastal Interior

Coastal living is all about sun, sand, salt water, and those cool ocean breezes. So why are so many beach houses oh so dated and dreary? Forget that kitschy nautical décor, cliché Navy blue paint, and ominously dark wood paneling, and take a decorating tip from modern Mother Nature. Here, we’ll offer up some inspiration for designing a contemporary coastal interior that’s serene and simply beautiful — just like the sea.

If your home by the ocean isn’t quite in ship shape, now is the time for a stylish update. Get a jump on the summer season with solid wood cabinetry and chic coastal details. If you aren’t sure how to navigate a home remodeling project, contact Willow Lane Cabinetry and take advantage of our free room design service. The rest is smooth sailing!

Here are some charming details to consider for your coastal interior.

Wood-Look Tile

When living by the ocean, you are sure to track saltwater and sandy footprints indoors. That is why it’s wise to stick with water-resistant, easy to clean tile flooring. While hardwood floors are the epitome of coastal chic, they require a lot of care and maintenance. Get the look without the headache by installing wood-look tile in your open concept kitchen and throughout the home. Click here to browse our beautiful selection of wood-look tile and other flooring options from Willow Lane Cabinetry.

White Kitchen Cabinets

When designing the quintessential contemporary beach house interior, white kitchen cabinets are a must. The clean and simple lines of Shaker cabinet doors look stunning in a crisp white finish, with charming touches like glass front doors, a built-in wine rack, and traditional cup pulls. Pair white kitchen cabinets with a kitchen island in a gray or dark finish for added contrast and a trendy two-tone look.

Natural Stone

A contemporary coastal kitchen brings natural elements from the outdoors in. There is no better way to do this than by installing a natural stone backsplash or countertops in your bath or open concept kitchen. Natural materials for countertops include Quartz, Quartzite and Granite. Featuring unique colors and patterns, natural stone is durable, low-maintenance, and uniquely beautiful. Click here to learn more and to compare our countertop materials.

Coastal-Inspired Colors

Contemporary coastal interiors have a light and airy vibe, with serene and vibrant colors taken straight from the sea. Living Coral, Pantone’s 2019 Color of the Year, is fresh and lively, and evokes the unique beauty of the ocean. It pairs nicely with other coastal-inspired hues like Sea Glass by Benjamin Moore, Interesting Aqua by Sherwin Williams, Sand Pearl by Behr, Seashell Gray by Valspar, and other beachy shades.

Pair painted walls with a well-placed accent wall made from natural stone tile or wood. Charming coastal options include shiplap, board and batten wainscoting, and bead board. Add the finishing touches with sea grass baskets, natural fiber linens and area rugs, canvas or linen widow treatments, plantation shutters, and tasteful beach house décor.

5 Healthy And Homemade Grab And Go Snack Ideas

Many of us resolve to eat healthier in the New Year, but our busy schedules sabotage our plans. Let’s face it — when you’re in a rush, it’s just easier to snack on pre-packaged treats that don’t always have the healthiest ingredients. But after a People magazine story started trending last week, highlighting a recent study that linked processed foods to an increased risk of earlier death, you may be second-guessing your snack choices.

Never fear! With some planning and a little preparation ahead of time, you can make healthy, homemade snacks to grab and go the next time hunger strikes. We searched high and low for simple, healthy recipes you can make in your own kitchen. Best of all, many of the ingredients may already be in your refrigerator or solid wood cabinetry. Let’s get started.

No-Bake Granola Bars

We like this healthy recipe for 5-Ingredient Granola Bars from The Minimalist Baker, because it’s as simple as can be. These hearty, satisfying bars contain dates, almonds, rolled oats, peanut butter, and the natural sweetener of your choice (honey, maple syrup or agave nectar) — no baking required! Click here for the recipe.

Healthy Morning Muffins

This easy muffin recipe from Martha Stewart makes the perfect grab and go breakfast or snack. With healthy ingredients like shredded carrots, banana, rolled oats, eggs, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of nutmeg from the spice rack in your solid wood cabinetry, you can feel good about having a sweet treat. Click here for the recipe.

Mango Fruit Roll-Ups

If you are craving something chewy, these Mango Fruit Roll-Ups from Just a Taste are made with real fruit and zero added sugar. They are also super simple to make. All you need are a few mangos, a food processor or blender, rimmed baking sheets lined with parchment paper, and an oven. For complete instructions, click here.

Homemade Cheese Crackers

If you prefer a savory snack, check out this recipe for Homemade Cheese Crackers from Chef in Training. Salty and filled with sharp Cheddar, these bite-sized crackers have a kick, thanks to the addition of crushed red pepper flakes. Click here for the recipe.

Baked Veggie Chips

If you crave crunchy snacks and want a tasty and quick way to add more vegetables to your diet, you are going to love this Baked Veggie Chip recipe from Rachel Ray Everyday. This snack packs a healthy punch with parsnips, sweet potatoes, celery root, beets, and a sprinkle of sea salt. For instructions, click here.

How To Host A Fabulous Oscars Party At Home

It’s Hollywood’s biggest night — The Academy Awards. And while you may not be able to walk the red carpet in a designer gown or tux and million-dollar bling, you can host a fabulous Oscars Party at home. From adding a little glitz to your TV room, to creating a sensational spread in your open concept kitchen, we’ll show you how!

The Votes Are In

The first step in planning an Oscars party is creating the guest list. Don’t be afraid to invite family and friends from different social groups, be it neighbors, co-workers, or your closest crew. The Oscars is the perfect time to mix and mingle. Once the votes are in, create an Oscars-worthy invitation, either in print or online.

Comedy or Drama

Be sure to specify the attire for your party. While there is nothing wrong with coming as you are, an Oscars party is the perfect excuse to get all gussied up and add a little drama. Or for a bit of humor, ask your guests to dress as their favorite movie character instead.

Best Supporting Bites

The menu for your Oscars party should fit your theme. If your party is casual, include concession stand items like soft pretzels, hot dogs, and nachos. If your party is fancy, opt for fancy finger foods like Slow-Cooker Party Meatballs and Garlicky Shrimp Cocktail (click here for these and 22 more Oscar party recipes). Also include lots of popcorn for guests, and be sure to stock your bar cabinets with champagne and everything you need to make star-studded cocktails.

Make a Grand Entrance

A fabulous Oscars party isn’t complete without rolling out the red carpet. Adding a red carpet to your entryway is a simple yet spectacular way to get the party started, whether you purchase a $10 runner at your local party store, or an authentic red carpet for around $100. For an extra Hollywood touch, ask your guests for their autograph as they arrive.

Nominees For Best Picture

Set up a photo booth in your open concept kitchen for guests to strike a pose. In the living room, have plenty of comfortable seating around the television for optimal viewing. Add some glitz and glamour to your TV room cabinetry with gold streamers, and red, black and gold balloons.

Hooray For Hollywood

Don’t forget the Oscars is an awards show. At the halfway mark, hand out “Best-Dressed” awards, and set up some Hollywood-themed games to keep things fun through all those long and tearful acceptance speeches. Click here for ideas from HGTV, including Oscar Party Bingo and Academy Awards Scorecards.

And the award for “Best Host” goes to…. You!

5 Ways To Turn Your House Into A Home

Whether a house was purchased resale or as new construction, all homeowners have a desire to personalize their living space. You don’t need to be an interior decorator to create comfortable rooms that also showcase your unique style. After all, where you reside is a reflection of you! From custom touches and thoughtful details and décor, we’ll show you how to turn your house into a home.

First Impressions

The exterior of your house doesn’t have to be basic and bland. Put your best foot forward and pump up your curb appeal by adding personalization. Start by painting your front door in a favorite color that compliments your brick or siding. To give a warm welcome, add visual interest with a bench or chair, potted plants and a pretty wreath. If your landscaping is overgrown or underdone, add that to your spring to-do list. Research which trees and shrubs grow well in your zone and select varieties that suit your style. Also, take into consideration the amount of sunlight your yard receives when purchasing plants. If you have a green thumb, liven things up with seasonal flowers for a pop color. Add the finishing touches with mulch or stone, and edging. When in doubt, consult a landscape designer or visit your local nursery for advice.

It’s What’s On the Inside That Counts

If the interior of your new home has great bones but lacks warmth and character, it’s time for a makeover. Start by making a list of the features that made you fall in love with your house, and also the elements that spark more disgust than joy. Do you adore the layout of your open concept kitchen but not the dated cabinets? Browse the inventory at Willow Lane Cabinetry and take advantage of our free room design service, complete with a 3-D rendering that works within your unique budget. Custom details like glass front doors and a built-in wine rack will surely add to the aesthetic of your open concept kitchen. If you happen to love your solid wood cabinetry, add natural stone countertops and a beautiful backsplash from Willow Lane Cabinetry to complete the look.

3 More Ways To Turn Your House Into A Home

In the living room, add warmth with throw pillows, blankets, window treatments, and area rugs. Make it an inviting space to gather by installing TV room cabinetry. Add comfortable furniture that cohesively fits your design style. Avoid matching sets and suites. After all, your home isn’t a furniture showroom. Take time to choose thoughtful pieces that reflect your style and have meaning to you.

Make the kitchen the heart of your home by including plenty of seating around the kitchen table and island, and warm touches like a table runner, fresh flowers, and pottery canisters. Add inside cabinet accessories for organization and to cut down on countertop clutter. Upgrade light fixtures to illuminate your space while adding a decorative touch.

Create a welcoming entryway with a doormat, baskets, and a hall table or bench. In the Bathroom and laundry room, add solid wood cabinetry for warmth and added storage space. Last but not least, craft comfortable bedrooms with cozy bedding, and décor that reflects the personal style of the unique family member each room belongs to.

How To Decorate With Red The Right Way

Often, homeowners have a grand vision for the interior of their home but feel hesitant to take the plunge. Decorating with a bold color like red is definitely one of the top concerns. You see some dreamy room on Pinterest or in Better Homes & Gardens and think, “I’d love to bring that look into my home,” but you’re afraid it will be too overwhelming or over the top.

These feelings are understandable — but decorating with a vibrant hue is not an impossible feat. Whether you want to spice things up in your open concept kitchen or add a touch of romance to your master bath, these tips will help you decorate with red the right way.

Add an accent wall.

You might not be fully committed to the idea of a room with red walls — but how about one? Painting an accent wall in a bold color is a great way to incorporate an interesting shade without overpowering the room. In an open concept kitchen, this could also come in the form of a stunning red tile backsplash or a red finish on your solid wood cabinetry. Mixing and matching cabinets to create an accent wall is a modern approach that works well with a variety of kitchen styles.

Don’t underestimate the power of a shade.

Like most colors, red comes in many different shades. When decorating a home, especially with a bold color, it’s important to know that even the slightest variation in shade can facilitate a shift in mood. Before selecting which shade is the best fit for your walls, solid wood cabinetry or décor, take two things into consideration.

The theme of the room. Primary red can add an excellent pop of color to a modern or contemporary room, but it might feel off with a traditional or country theme. The room’s theme and color palette will play a huge role in finding your perfect shade of red.

How the color makes you feel. We encourage homeowners to take a color for a test drive before they sign the papers. Whether it’s a throw blanket on your couch or a fabric sample pinned to the wall, be sure to invite the color inside before making any final decisions. You might find that cherry red brings you joy while crimson induces anger or rage.

Let red highlight the room’s greatest attributes.

Red is an eye-catching color, so it is often the first thing guests will see when they enter the room. Use décor like lamps, picture frames, or pottery to highlight the elements of the room that deserve the most attention. In your home, that might be your beautiful TV room cabinetry or the natural stone countertop on your kitchen island.

While red can help you highlight the room’s greatest attributes, it can also help you hide your not so favorite aspects. Use red décor to create a distraction from that old coffee table you’re eager to replace or the slew of small appliances you have lined up in your kitchen. If you’re still not ready to take the plunge, start small by adding a pop of red with throw pillows, art, or or an accent chair.

How To Impress Your Sweetheart With A Home Cooked Meal On Valentine’s Day

While eating dinner at a fancy restaurant is nice, anybody can make a reservation. If you truly want to impress your sweetheart, why not make a home cooked meal? Whether you have a small galley or large open concept kitchen, you can show how much you care with a romantic evening at home. Here are a few tips for planning and preparing the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner — made with love.

Tip 1: Search Your Heart

You know your Valentine better than anyone. Before you begin, search your heart to determine what he or she would love. What are her favorite foods? Even if it’s something as simple as burgers, incorporate that into the menu — with a gourmet twist. Does he love spending quality time with you? If so, plan a meal you can cook together. Does she love surprises? Have a romantic dinner for two waiting when she gets home from work.

Tip 2: Set The Mood

Valentine’s Day is a special occasion; so bring a bit of romantic ambiance to your dining room or open concept kitchen. Now is the perfect time to pull out the good China dishes and crystal wine glasses you received as a wedding gift. Show you care by setting the table properly, complete with cloth napkins, tapered candles, and a vase of fresh flowers. For a detailed guide on table setting etiquette from Emily Post, click here.

Tip 3: Plan The Menu

If you cook dinner on a nightly basis, steer clear of the meals in your regular rotation, and whip up something new and exciting for Valentine’s Day. Start with your significant other’s favorite meal, and make it fancy. For example, simple spaghetti and meatballs can become spicy Pappardelle with Bolognese Sauce, while steak can become surf and turf, with filet mignon and broiled lobster tails. Even a traditional cheeseburger can be made special with unique toppings. Swap raw white onions for pickled red onions, iceberg lettuce for arugula, and American cheese for Gouda or Gorgonzola.

Tip 4: Don’t Forget Dessert

A Valentine’s Day dinner isn’t complete without a decadent dessert for two. Don’t cheat by buying a store-bought confection. Baking a homemade sweet for your sweetheart is the icing on the cake — the perfect happy ending to the lovey meal you have prepared. If you’re not a natural baker, keep things simple. Search online for easy and traditional Valentine’s Day dessert recipes, such as Chocolate Mousse or heart shaped Strawberry Shortcake. You may also want to consider stocking your bar cabinets for a special nightcap cocktail.

Planning and preparing a Valentine’s Day dinner is a thoughtful gesture that takes time and effort. When you follow these helpful tips, your Valentine will surely be impressed — and feel loved.