Valentine’s Day comes right in the midst of winter. Here in the Midwest that means it is more important than ever to find ways to add a little bit of life to an otherwise pretty dreary landscape. While this post falls under my Seasons and Holidays category we will show you how inspiration from nature can be the perfect muse for adding Valentine’s Day decor to all of the other categories of our blog too such as your tabletop decor , fabric soft furnishings, lighting, and indoor gardening.
Forced Bulbs
While there is not much going on in the outdoor garden you can still take advantage of potted plants and garden inside. Forced bulbs are one of the best ways to infuse some color and life into your winter home. Nature Hills has some great options but it is best to order before winter is in full swing (December is best) as they do sell out quickly. Tulips, Crocus, Daffodils, Narcissus, and even some wildflowers are good candidates for forcing. If you missed ordering from the nurseries and are just now thinking of adding some blooming bulbs you can find them at your local florist and some even offer home delivery.
Martha Stewart.com is always a great resource for ways to craft for all of the holidays. If you do have bulbs or really any potted plants that need a little magic added try adding fabric pot covers for a new look! Click here to read the article and find out more.
Topiaries
Another great option available from your local florist and some online stores specializing in flowers and plants are topiaries. Some, such as this one featured below, are even in the shape of a valentine! Ivy and Jasmine make really beautiful topiaries.
English Ivy Topiaries are also super easy to care for and I have had great luck with them. Click on the link for more information on care how to order.
Wreaths
If you are looking for something that looks real but is faux this wreath is a stunner. What says Happy Valentine’s Day better than a welcome wreath on your front door?
Soft Furnishings
Coral and Tusk is one of my favorite go to sources for nature inspired holiday gifts and decor. They take inspiration from flora and fauna in nature and create embroidered linens, gifts, and artisan products in natural fabrics. These muslin heart shaped gift pocket envelopes with embroidered little hearts and a fox peeking out are an adorable idea for a child or anyone that is young at heart.
They also have a curated page of all of their valentines day products including cards shown below.
Valentine’s Day
from: Coral & Tusk
Tabletop Decor
As a writer and a textile designer specializing in Biophilic Design (Nature Inspired Motifs) I am always looking for new ways to create my own work but also to curate and put a spotlight on the work of other pattern designers and artists that celebrate love of nature. Here are some great designs from other designers that have hit the mark with their themed patterns available in fabric for home decor items. Tablecloths, runners, napkins, and place mats are a great way to decorate for the holiday but also great for that natural aesthetic look that makes us all feel surrounded by the seasons even on the bleakest of days.
Finding ways to add holiday decor doesn’t always have to include hearts. This lovely floral and butterfly print is a great example of how the right color can enhance your other holiday elements. I love the magenta background and the tight composition and scale. You could order table runners, napkins, pillows, and more for instant holiday decor. Link to the Spoonflower Store for each designer below the photos.
Here is an example of this pattern on a table runner….
This is another great pattern in the magenta color with a modern twist.
Here are some placemats made from this pattern.
This one is a clever design featuring a blooming heart-taken literally but very fun and unique.
and as a tablecloth….perfect for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day dinner with a little tongue in cheek humor but still beautiful. That’s a hard balance to strike!
Lighting
Lastly, lighting is always such an important consideration for getting the right ambiance. I love the soft amber glow that mimics the glow of fireflies on a summer night. I think that amber glow is one of the key elements that makes Paris one of the most , if not the most, beautiful cities at night.
Candles are a wonderful way of getting that look but there are some other great options too. We had dinner the other night at a local French restaurant that I love , Le Fou Frog, and the tables had these string light bottles . I love them! I provided a link below.
Wrapping it Up
Marking the holidays is such an important way to honor the seasons. If you have been reading my blog for any time you know that this concept is at the heart of what I believe makes our houses a home and also fosters wellness and happiness. It does not need to be difficult but adding something to your decor that inspires you to think about where you are in space and time can be a really effective way to live in the moment and celebrate the season.
Happy Valentines Day!