Mind you, we’re all for a romantic tête-à-tête with your honeybun on Valentine’s Day. But if your kids are at home, why not include them in the celebration with a super-fun Valentine-themed dinner? For instance, consider serving all red foods on festive red-&-white dinnerware. Examples include spaghetti and meatballs, red beans and rice, stuffed red peppers, or meatloaf with red catsup hearts drawn on. Or how about a heart-shaped pizza the whole family can make together?

To add extra glitz to the festivities, try laying a glass top over your existing table and sprinkle with confetti hearts and glitter. When it’s time for dessert, serve up sweet strawberry parfaits in martini glasses or champagne flutes. (Tip: Pipe desserts into glasses to avoid a mess. No pastry bag? Spoon parfait into a sandwich baggie with one tip cut off.) Or keep it simple with creamy peppermint hot chocolate and marshmallows served in bright red mugs.

Gift-wise, pamper your Valentines with fragrant bath & body items, picture frames (with a fab photo of you, of course), or inexpensive jewelry. A classic bouquet of red roses is always good – supply your own vase and avoid florist prices. Valentine cookies make a great kid-friendly treat. Let youngsters lend a hand with baking for extra fun and family memories.