Valentine's Day Series #1 - Decor Amor

As promised, a Valentine's Day Series is here. It begins with a request (my fave). The challenge: Meghan, the super nice blogger from Kitchen Notes/talented baker at Fuel Breakfast in Wilmette, is looking for Valentine's decoration ideas for a party to be hosted at Fuel. Most of these are inexpensive, but a trip to Michael's is in order. Note: I tried my hardest to ignore Martha, but she's everywhere and her cronies are genius (I can't possibly give her all the credit).

1. I have a serious issue with these apothecary jars. I blame Home Goods. How about filling a few up with candy hearts?

2. Martha. These kill me. The pockets, the crayon hearts and the doily votives - they're all just so cute. The pockets would be great (not even hanging), stuffed with little brownies or cookies (think cones). The hearts would be adorable in a window and the doily votives would be perfect on the counter or tables.

Sidenote: I also keep thinking about framing red heart doilies. A red heart in a white frame. Something to consider.

3. What about tons of paper pinwheels? Instead of flowers in a vase or used as cupcake toppers these would be a fun spin (get it) on traditional heart decorations. Instructions here.

4. Heart wreath, an old photo from Better Homes and Gardens. I couldn't find directions, but it looks easy enough. Cut out millions of little hearts and attach to a styrofoam or wooden circle. Sticking with hearts, try cutting out bigger ones, and stringing fishing wire or thread through the center of each one, making a sort of garland (see #7 for more ideas).

5. I love this window display for its simplicity. Michael's always has plenty of big wooden letters - maybe splash on some paint or glitter, or if you're really liking this idea, try fabric.

6. My favorite is a small, short vase, stuffed with big or small and tight flowers.

7. And finally, I really can't get my mind off of garland and flags. Any of these (or a combination) in pinks and white would be perfect in a bigger space like Fuel.

Party Poms, Etsy; The Purl Bee; CoriKindred, Etsy; Kiddly

Meghan, I hope these helped! Here's to a successful Valentine's event!

Make sure to stop by Fuel if you happen to be in the area. Fun fact: when the restaurant closes, Meghan teaches kids cooking classes - how fun is that?!

(email here  for more info)

Next stop, Sweets & Treats.