A few years ago I created a Bouquet Dinner for my family on Valentine’s. It was an immediate hit. Our kids now look forward to it as soon as they see the Valentine’s decorations go up in the stores (which is like right after Christmas 😅).
The thing I love about Valentine’s Day is we don’t have to spend huge amounts of money to show others how important they are to us.
Of course businesses are often trying to convince us that a diamond bracelet or luxury cruise is the only way to show your love. We all know better. 😊 While those things are nice, real love is expressed in less complex ways.
When I feel truly loved it is because someone remembered me. My husband gives me a music mix of the very best songs from the previous year. I love it because whenever I listen to it I think of him. The CD also introduces me to the latest hits which I have to admit is needed. I quickly get behind on what’s up and coming.
Children are natural Valentine masters. They are so incredibly loving and forgiving and their cards and presents are truly from the heart.
A few of the homemade Valentine’s I’ve gotten over the years. ❤️
Last year my son was struggling with keeping his cool. His teacher used a little post it note to track expected and unexpected behavior and send it to me at the end of the day. This is probably the most beautiful way he could show his love for me at the time. All smiles and no frowns ❤️❤️.
It seemed only natural for me to make a fun, creative dinner to show my affection for my family. I make notes and everything, but this way I can feed their bellies and souls. They also never forget this tradition, their eyes light up when they see Valentine’s Dinner.
It’s exciting to “pick” what you want to eat. With such a unique way of serving dinner the whole room is jumping with excitement.
A few needed items
- Flower vases to hold your bouquets
- Cooking skewers
- Your choice of meat, fruit /Vegitables and bread
Our Bouquet Versions
Each year we try something a little different. One year we had meatballs, smokies and bacon alternating on a skewer. Another year I tried my hand at bacon roses which I thought would be an especially tasty way to my husband’s heart.
Chocolate Covered Bacon
You could also try chocolate covered bacon – which is actually amazing. Here is the recipe and how-to here. Or make bacon roses and then dip in chocolate! I will likely be trying that this year.
Inside-out Chocolate Strawberries
If you look closely, you’ll see these chocolate strawberries have the chocolate on the inside. I found that chocolate covered strawberries were a little messy to eat. The chocolate shell would break and fall off before you could eat it with the strawberry. You’re using two hands, one to eat and one to catch the chocolate falling off.
This version you simply pour the chocolate inside the strawberry. There is often a hole inside so it makes it easy. It’s perfect to eat for little ones and I actually like it better with a chocolate core.
Pigs-in-a-Blanket
Pigs-in-a-blanket are easy to do on a stick as well. To mix it up a little, try one of these versions Cheesy Ranch or a puff pastry crust.
I also just discovered this completely easy to make Soft Pretzel recipe, which I’ll probably do this year for the Bouquet as well.
I was surprised that the Oreo’s on a stick were not a hit. I think the kids had already had so much sugar from school Valentine’s that they were ready for real food by dinner.
My amazing Valentine. He makes it easy to want to make Valentine’s Day special.
There are endless ideas to create a Bouquet meal. What would you put in an edible bouquet?
P. S.
You may be wondering if we get alone time – for an actual romantic dinner? The answer is yes, we will be going out just the two of us on the weekend.😊
Happy baking, until next time – which will likely be a home DIY!
Natalie
What a great idea! I love that it’s a great way to try new recipes and foods.
I love your edible bouquet idea. I would also like to put chunks of pineapples on a stick. This is such a cute idea for Valentines Day.
Ooo, pineapple is a great idea. Would you alternate it with other fruits or go straight pineapple?
It would probably be fun to turn this into a fondue party… the options are endless.
When you said pineapple, I immediately thought bacon wrapped with a honey glaze and green peppers! Maybe more of a Thai skewer? But the fondue idea is great too. I’ve only ever had fondue once now that you mention it, and I even work for a cheese company! Do you have a good go to recipe?
You know, I am still experimenting with Fondue. I’ll let you know when I find a good one. I love your Thai themed idea that would be delicious.
I love your ideas Natalie. Everyone gets to feel special 😁
Yes, it’s true and the best way to their hearts is with food. 😊 That’s what people say anyway. 😂
Gladys, I have tried twice now to write a comment on your blog and it won’t let me. Maybe it’s something on my end, but I thought I should let you know.
I am always a sucker for presentable meals. I like that you’re ditching the $$$$ Valentine’s approach and going for something at home. I love how the skewers turned out. I know I’d LOVE the bacon ones!! Thanks for sharing!
Nancy ♥ exquisitely.me
I’m so glad you liked it. This version is definitely kid friendly, but you could make some dramatic adult menus that would be awesome.
I am hungry just looking at these!
It’s a good thing it’s a quick prep meal. You’ll be eating in no time. 😊
This is so beautiful and such an original idea! If I had children I would love to incorporate this as a tradition.
I personally would love a sushi bouquet lol.
Thank you for sharing
Erica Raquel
https://www.grandfashlife.com
Erica, this has definitely opened my eyes to the possibilities – sushi would take this to a whole other level.
Thank you for your kind words.
❤️