fab* talk: romantic birthday dinner

Posted on 15. Sep, 2009 by janelle in socialite

fab* talk is a chance for us to share readers questions and our thoughts.

Hey Ladies of Budget Fab!

I could use some advice. I’m in a new relationship and the new guy’s birthday is coming up. We usually spend a lot of time eating out and at lounges, so I wanted to do something different for his birthday and stay in. Any ideas on how I can turn my apartment into a place to serve a romantic dinner? I don’t want to go too crazy and spend a ton since it is new. Thanks!

Here are a few of my suggestions…

For food, get take out from one of your favorite places to go together. A more {budget}fab* option may be to cook yourself. If you’re a whiz in the kitchen, try making his favorite dish or recreating one of his restaurant favorites. If cooking isn’t really your thing, the birthday dinner isn’t the time to take risks. Cook what ya’ know!
As for drinks, wine from Trader Joe’s is super inexpensive and there are lots of options. If the evening will be a no alcohol evening, one of my favorite “party” drinks is ginger ale with a couple dried raspberries dropped in. Serve it in a wine glass, or any clear glass, the drink is really nice to look at.
To keep decor costs low, try and use as much from your home as possible. Have some great plates? Use the plates to inspire color and design for the evening. Cover your dining table with a table cloth to take things up a notch. If you don’t have one, check places like Homegoods for quality table linens on the cheap (be sure to pick up a color you can use multiple times, not just for this dinner). Adding candles is another inexpensive item that can help set the romantic dinner mood. Also, use an existing picture and replace the photo with the menu items just for one night.
For dessert, try this super easy recipe from Downslice for making your own frozen yogurt.