Valentine’s Day Tablescape: A Romantic & Elegant Setup
Project Inspiration
Hosting a Valentine’s Day dinner party or a Galentine’s Day tablescape brunch? A beautifully styled table instantly transforms any gathering into a special celebration. The best part? You don’t need expensive decor to achieve a luxurious Valentine’s Day tablescape—just a few simple items, creative styling, and a touch of romance.
Whether you’re setting up an intimate dinner party hosting tablescape for two or a festive Galentine’s gathering, this step-by-step guide will help you create a dreamy tablescape that wows your guests.
Supplies List & Cost Breakdown
For this Valentine’s Day DIY tablescape, I purchased:
2 packs of 35.4ft Cherry Blossom Garland - $17.99/6-piece pack, so $35.98
1 pack of Pink Lace Tablecloth (60 x 120 inches) - $22.80/2-piece pack
1 pack of 4 Inches Wide Hot Pink Satin Ribbon - $13.99/roll
1 pack of 3/8 Inch Wide Assorted Pink Satin Ribbon - $7.99/5-pack (I only used a small amount for this project, so there’s plenty left to use for other DIYs!)
1-pack of C+F Floral Placemats - $65.99/6-pack
2 packs of Heart-Shaped Pearl Ornaments (similar napkin rings here) - $14.99/12-pack
Total Supplies Cost = $161.74
I also used things I already had, like:
20 flameless tall taper candlesticks - $26.99/6-pack (These go on sale often - that’s when I snagged a bunch a few years back! I use these over and over in my home decor, so they’re well worth the investment)
20 glass taper candlestick holders - $23.99/4-pack (These are so stunning and versatile. I just used them in my Christmas centerpiece, and now they’re perfect for this neutral one in between seasons.)
The Secret
The magic of this Valentine’s Day tablescape lies in using everyday items in unexpected ways. Instead of a traditional runner, I bunched up a lace tablecloth for added texture. Satin ribbons, typically used for gift wrapping, became delicate bows on taper candles and statement ties on the floral garland. Even the napkin rings? Repurposed holiday ornaments!
Another key to achieving a Pinterest-worthy dinner party hosting tablescape is playing with scale. The oversized bow cascading off the table? It’s the showstopper that ties everything together (literally!). Mixing candle heights and layering different textures add to the charm. Think of this as tablescape storytelling—each detail contributes to the romance of the evening.
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Start with a Clean Slate: Before decorating, wipe down your table to ensure a fresh, polished base for your Valentine’s Day tablescape.
2. Create a Luxe "Runner" with Lace Tablecloths
Lay out 2 lace tablecloths so their short edges meet in the center of the table.
Instead of spreading them out flat, bunch them together down the middle to form a textured runner about 1.5 feet wide.
Let the excess fabric cascade off both ends of the table to create a soft, romantic effect—perfect for a Galentine’s Day tablescape or an elegant dinner party hosting tablescape.
3. Layer the Cherry Blossom Garland for a Floral Touch
Use 6 garlands per side, draping them along the lace runner.
Allow the ends to spill onto the floor for a whimsical, romantic aesthetic.
Space them about one inch apart, fluffing the flowers for a natural, organic feel.
4. Add Candlesticks & Cake Stands for Height
Nestle taper candles and cake stands into the garland, mixing different candle heights for an elevated look.
Strategically place your decor to conceal the meeting point of the tablecloths in the center.
Style your cake stands with festive donuts (like I did!) or other Valentine’s Day decor or desserts.
5. Elevate the Look with Ribbon-Tied Candlesticks
Use 3/8-inch satin ribbon to tie petite bows around each flameless taper candle.
Keep the bow "ears" small while letting the tails flow elegantly.
Warning: Do not tie ribbons on real flame candles—it’s a fire hazard!
6. Create Dramatic Ribbon Bows on the Ends
About 6-12 inches from the table’s edge, tie 4-inch-wide satin ribbon around the center two garland strands.
Match the bow’s proportions to your taper candle bows, but with larger 8-inch ears for a grander effect.
Trim the tails to reach the floor, blending seamlessly with the draping lace tablecloth.
7. Set the Table with Placemats & Dinnerware
Lay out floral placemats to add a touch of spring.
Opt for white dinner plates to make the florals pop.
8. Transform Ornaments into Napkin Rings
Thread 3/8-inch satin ribbon through pearl heart ornaments, tying them around folded napkins.
No ornaments? No problem! Use standard napkin rings and dress them up with a delicate bow.
The Final Result
The result? A romantic, whimsical, and unforgettable tablescape that looks straight out of a dream. Whether you’re hosting a cozy Valentine’s dinner, a Galentine’s Day brunch, or an elegant dinner party hosting tablescape, this setup will impress your guests.
The best part? You can customize the color scheme, swap out florals for seasonal touches, and reuse these elements for future celebrations. Who knew a few simple details could create such a magical setup?
If you try this look, tag me—I’d love to see your version of this Valentine’s Day tablescape!