By Dominic Donaldson

There are many ways to set a romantic atmosphere to spice up a relationship, but it takes combining a whole plethora of factors, not just utilising one to get the right effect. We take you through a step by step guide to provide the perfect setting for a proposal, romantic meal or just a quiet night in using candles, cushions and a bit of creative thinking.

To set the right scene, timing is everything, so make sure you allow yourself enough time to plan and arrange all aspects of the evening, from food preparation to flower arranging. To create an atmosphere for romance, plan all your arrangements for the evening as the sun is setting and the night comes into its own. This will give you a chance to create subdued lighting using a whole range of candles and fabrics.

Make sure that you have a quick run through of the set up, placing all the special decorations where you want them. Then you can place a variety of candles such as church candles, scented candles and floating candles in the right place to accentuate shadows and highlight features you have spent time arranging.

Avoid plonking candelabra in the centre of a table for a meal, this will only block the view. Instead place a large decorative bowl filled with water and petals in the centre and light some floating candles. This will produce a low light with dappled effect to reflect the romance in the air. Another important candle factor is not to place scented ones on the dining table, it will spoil the taste of the food on offer.

Choose luxurious soft furnishings in the form of drapes, cushions and blankets to create a sensuous space. Choosing exotic prints from the Far East will lend an air of sultry extravagance, and create the perfect backdrop for romantic proposals. If you are planning to lay on the romance in a big way, you should choose food and drink that is renowned for being an aphrodisiac.

Oysters, asparagus and garlic are all famed aphrodisiacs, and even their association with such claims is enough to make the object of your affections get the message. Combine meals that use these ingredients with champagne and after dinner Belgian truffles, and the taste buds will be tingling with anticipation of love. Ultimately, it is using your imagination to set a scene that will win hearts over; attention to detail and evidence of the fact an effort has been made after all, actions speak louder than words.

About The Author

Dom Donaldson is a relationships expert.
Find out more about Candles at http://www.thecandlelightcompany.co.uk