I love to use color in my meals too! Makes things look so much tastier!

Using nice dishes is a great way to perk up a meal too, as you suggested. I've gotten into the habit of using mine whenever we eat together, not just for special occasions. My dishwasher's going to run either way, so why not use the nice stuff and enjoy our meals together.

I am so boring when it comes to this!Can't wait to see all the tips you get.

Candles, like the one poster suggested. I also get a fresh centerpiece. at holidays, the table might be graced w/holiday themed items.

Good china (I registered for this for my wedding, more brides should do this!), good silverware, tablecloth that matches the centerpiece, cloth napkins (we don't use them everyday.) Along w/the wine glasses etc. I tend to use items that we don't use everyday, like the cups and saucers that come w/the china.

Usually the only time we'll have music playing is around Christmas, and it'll be Christmas music. Usually we're talking too much to even hear the music, so we don't bother.

Oh! And we'll eat in our formal dining room, as opposed to the kitchen.

My family came this weekend and hubby and I had gotten out of the habit of eating at the table (we have a few favorite TV shows and would eat while watching one of them--no kids yet).

So before they came I put out my favorite tablecloth, a basket with the cloth napkins in it, a small plate with a scented candle on it (the candle was a gift, I don't usu. buy things like that), and then my mom brought fresh daffodils from her garden! Even in a Mason jar (can't find my vases since the move), they're lovely!