A SIMPLE GUIDE TO HOSTING A SWEET VALENTINE’S DAY GATHERING
6” RED VELVET SWEETHEART CAKE
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be loud, elaborate, or overplanned to feel special. In fact, the most memorable gatherings are often the simplest ones — a beautiful dessert on the table, good conversation, and a space that feels intentional without trying too hard.
Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or a small celebration just because, here’s our approach to keeping Valentine’s Day sweet, relaxed, and thoughtfully done.
Keep the Guest List Small
A Valentine’s gathering works best when it feels intimate. A handful of people, a cozy table, and room to linger. Think dessert-forward instead of dinner-heavy — something guests can enjoy slowly, with coffee or a glass of wine, without committing to a full evening production.
Set the Mood (Without Overthinking It)
A few soft details go a long way. You don’t need themed everything — just a nod to the season.
We love:
Taper candles in soft pinks, reds, or warm neutrals
Linen napkins or a simple table runner
A small arrangement of flowers or greenery
Stores like Target and Anthropologie are great places to find Valentine’s décor that feels elevated but approachable — pieces you’ll use again long after February.
Let Dessert Be the Centerpiece
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to lead with dessert. Choose a few items that offer variety in flavor and texture, then arrange them simply on cake stands or serving plates. No labels needed — part of the fun is discovering what’s what.
Some of our favorite Valentine’s treats for sharing include:
STRAWBERRY SWEETHEART ROLLS
Fresh strawberry preserves and sweet cream cheese rolled into our famous sweet sourdough, finished with tangy strawberry icing poured on while they’re still warm. They’re nostalgic, soft, and perfect for pulling apart at the table.
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownie
A rich red velvet brownie swirled with cheesecake — familiar, indulgent, and easy to slice and serve.
Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Pailletin
Layers of dark chocolate pailletin, crisp hazelnut feuilletine, and chocolate mousse, finished with a glossy mirror glaze and a touch of gold shimmer. Rich, elegant, and ideal for chocolate lovers.
RED VELVET SWEETHEART CAKE
Soft red velvet cake layered with cream cheese buttercream and finished with petite red heart details. A classic Valentine’s dessert that feels celebratory without being over the top.
Petit Raspberry Vanilla Valentine’s Cake
Light vanilla chiffon sponge layered with raspberry mousse and finished with a pink mirror glaze. It’s delicate, balanced, and just the right size for a smaller gathering.
Banoffee Loaf Cake with Toffee Brown Butter Icing
Scratch-made banana bread baked with bits of toffee and chocolate throughout, topped with toffee brown butter icing. Comforting, unfussy, and perfect for guests who love something a little less traditional.
Serve Drinks That Feel Effortless
Keep beverages simple so dessert stays in the spotlight. Coffee, tea, sparkling water, or a bottle of something bubbly is more than enough. If you’re serving wine, one well-chosen bottle beats a full bar every time.
End on a Thoughtful Note
Send guests home with a small slice wrapped up or an extra roll for the next morning. It’s a simple gesture that feels generous — and it’s often what people remember most.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be perfect to be meaningful. A thoughtfully set table, something sweet to share, and time spent together is more than enough.
However you celebrate, we hope it’s filled with warmth, connection, and just the right amount of indulgence.