When you met your partner and started dating, it only seemed natural to take the time to indulge in romance and getting to know each other. Once you’re married, though, it seems equally natural to fall into the cycle of the everyday routine of life, forgetting romance in the daily pressure of work and family responsibilities. The result is that you take each other for granted. Date night doesn’t have to mean going out for a night on the town.
The important thing is to take some time to focus on your relationship outside the normal activities of managing work. Setting aside time for the two of you sends the message that you’re creating a special space for one another and prioritizing and care for each other. It also gives you time to reconnect, kindle the romance, and even unwind after a long day.
1. Enjoy a Movie Night
Planning an at-home movie night is low-cost; all you need is the movie and some snacks. The trick to this one, especially if your usual thing is to spend your free time in front of the TV, is to elevate it by making it special. Have lots of fun snacks, like candy you normally wouldn’t eat but might find at the movie theater-like Twizzlers and popcorn
2. Enjoy Music & Drinks
You can always enjoy drinks together at night. Search online for some cocktail recipes to try, and make a playlist together of some smooth and relaxing music. Then, dim the lights or get fairy lights, put the music on, and kick back with your cocktail creations. It creates a very romantic environment.
3. Have a Game Night
Sometimes it can be difficult to find two-player board games, some are traditionally kids’ games, but that can make them even more fun as it will feel like a guilty pleasure to play with just the two of you. You might have some of these games on hand, which makes the total cost for date night zero. You can enjoy them and maybe add some interesting fun to it by playing games like Never have I ever or Chess and whoever wins gets to ask others to do something exciting.
4. Cozy Up Around a Fire
Nothing is more romantic than relaxing in front of a cozy fire. It’s winter, try lighting a fire in the fireplace, laying blankets on the floor, and cozying up with a bottle of wine. If you don’t have a fireplace, you can light a group of candles, dim the lights, and snuggle up on a couch.
5. Have Breakfast in Bed
Surprise your partner one’s in a while with breakfast in bed. Breakfast for dinner can be a lot of fun, like breaking the rules and if you bust out the tray tables and eat your breakfast in bed, you can even pretend you’re in a nice fancy hotel.