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Romance in the Home

© Anonymous,

Your wedding day is often billed as the most romantic time of your life, but we think that it's what comes after that will keep you smiling throughout the years. Your marriage will be made over impromptu breakfasts in bed or late-night talks on the front porch. But is your house ready for the wonderful moments ahead? Don't worry. Our quick and easy tips make it simple to add romance to your home.

1. Living Room.
Do you love snuggling up to your spouse over a video, or is a cocktail while discussing the day more your style? However you like to spend time together, the right lighting will always enhance the occasion. Illuminate your couches and armchairs with standing and table lamps, and make sure you keep candles and matches on the mantle. Also consider installing dimmer switches so you'll always have the perfect amount of light for any kind of romantic moment.

2. Patio.
Picture lazy mornings out on the patio reading the paper, or summer nights enjoying a glass of cold chardonnay. Your patio is the potential site of many romantic moments to come, so take the time to transform it into your own secluded world. The careful positioning of a few potted plants and ferns can give your patio a lush, private feeling. Choose pots in a variety of sizes, and select plants of varying heights. Ficus trees and ferns make excellent choices for the patio, and cheerful geraniums provide the perfect accent. Also plant a few baskets with trailing ivy or create your own hanging garden with pansies, begonias or impatiens. Remember to consider fragrance as well as color and texture when planting your patio pots and baskets. Herbs like thyme and rosemary, or sweetly scented rose bushes are all wonderful selections.

3. Bathroom.
Having a bath alone is always wonderful, but having a bath together is twice as nice. Set the stage by mounting wall sconces in the bathroom for pillar candles. From art deco styles in gleaming silver to Spanish mission looks in wrought iron, there is a wall sconce for every décor style. Choose one at your local hardware store, and then select aromatherapy candles in a color and fragrance you love.

4. Bedroom.
A quick slick of paint is the fastest way to add atmosphere to your bedroom. Whether you prefer cozy peaches or soft blues, make sure the color you choose reflects the mood want. Warm tones such as coral, sand or ecru create an intimate feeling; cool shades such as celadon, tiffany blue or pure white work for couples looking for serenity. Bold colors, such as red, blue or yellow are perfect for couples who value playfulness above all. A major painting trend is using color on one or two walls, with the rest of the room kept in a neutral accent shade. Also, don't forget to select a complementary color for your baseboards and trim.

5. Deck.
There's nothing more romantic than an al fresco dinner beneath the stars -- especially if it's in the privacy of your own garden. Make sure your deck is ready for all those summer nights to come with a long-lasting, weatherproof stain. Staining your deck is easy and inexpensive, and protects the wood from deteriorating. And the bonus: Being outside together staining the deck is actually a lovely way to spend a weekend day.