No matter what else goes on the table, have a specific table setting just for the two of you. Have kids? Live with the in-laws? Host times when others join you? Having a completely different setting for you, and letting them know that it’s a ritual used that keeps you connected, sends a great message.
The local thrift stores are a bonanza for putting together a table ware for two. It’s not spendy trying to locate and customize a place setting. You can go fancy or simple. Maybe consider two differing plates, where one color or pattern might be placed on top of a slightly larger one for aesthetic affect. There are also almost always Chargers, frequently associated with holidays, than can be found to accomplish that as well, when less weight and fragility options need considering.
Dollar stores sell solid colored enamel plates that are great foundations for using a permanent marker on. The white plates will show your handy work the best. AND WE HIGHLY recommendonly using BLACK sharpies, as other colors eventually fade.) You have to bake them in the oven at 425 degrees for 45 minutes after you decorate it, to make it ingrain itself into the plate. But even if it wears off eventually, you just get to add a new note. For our Visually Impaired lovers, using drops of fingernail polish or Crazy GlueTM around the edges of the plate allow for Braille messages to be utilized. Keep it to the rims though for the sake of chemical transfer to the food. AND DON’T MICROWAVE THESE PLATES, as that will melt the Braille message and leave a horrible odor you’ll resent us for…
Pick up some paper plates from the party store. They don’t have to have a theme to be elegant or just cheerful. Dollar stores have colored disposable silverware and fun beverage tableware. Again, the Chargers can be added here if you opt. But this lightweight option works well in hospital settings or in bedrooms as a pick me up. Totally an on the go option.
Use white or similarly solid color paper plates, and write a note, poem, compliment etc., on the back, and when you set them out. Let it be the signal that you’re opting for disposable, so it saves some time which you’ll redeem back in fun way afterwards. Maybe it will be your personal secret coded message for sex is on the horizon…
Feel free to invest in some level of special matching glassware and eating utensils to add to this idea. Maybe a table cloth or cloth napkins. These can be added over time so it doesn’t squeeze the budget.
