Whether you’re still in the honeymoon period of a relationship or you’ve been married for years, keeping a regular date night is important for developing and keeping the spark alive. Choose a night that will be free from distractions and put some effort in to make it a special occasion every time. All it takes is a little imagination, a bit of time, and a loving attitude to create the right atmosphere for a night of passion.
Here are a few ideas to get you started, but at the end of the day, you’re the expert on what your partner would enjoy, so don’t forget to add that personal touch.
Wining and dining
Pick a restaurant renowned for its quality service as this can set the tone for the night straight away. Tell your partner to dress up and make the evening a nice surprise. Throughout the evening continue to whisper sweet nothings in their ear – tell them how you feel and how stunning they look tonight. At some point throughout the evening get up and ask your partner to dance, even if there is no dance floor.
If an expensive restaurant does not fit in with your style or budget then choose an equally as fun, cheaper option. For example, simply set up a table with lit candles, a bottle of wine and a cheese platter. If the weather is appropriate, do this outside and after the meal, lay on the ground gazing at the stars, holding your loved one close. If it’s cold outside, set this up in your lounge and choose a movie to match the mood. You could even finish off the night with a candle-lit bubble bath.
It’s thoughtful, personal touches to simple, everyday activities that can really make the difference, and also shows your partner the effort you’re willing to go to for them.
Dancing and singing
Whether or not you or your partner are interested in singing or dancing, you can still make it a fun night. Do something you never normally would, even if you require some liquid courage, and you’ll not only create memories with your partner but by putting yourself out of your comfort zone you will be rewarded in so many different ways.
Get up there in front of a crowd of strangers and make a fool of yourself at Karaoke. Do a duet and be as terrible as each other, but laugh about it afterward. If one of you is gifted with some singing talent then show it off and sing a love song to your partner.
Take your partner dancing – either go somewhere you know you’ll both enjoy (e.g. a concert) or do the opposite and learn a dance neither of you have done before. Young couples, go learn ballroom dancing and have fun fumbling over the steps, whilst trying to imitate the more serious dancers. You may learn something while having fun at the same time. Those of you who think you are past going clubbing – just do it! Seriously, you can have fun doing anything if you really want to. Once you get past the initial embarrassment of making fools of yourselves you’ll have the time of your lives!
Spontaneity
Plan to be spontaneous. Sometimes it’s safer to plan ahead when you want to surprise your partner. Have a set of ideas for your date night and spring them on your unsuspecting spouse to increase the excitement. On the flip-side, you could tell them you are planning a surprise but don’t give away any details, as this will build anticipation.
For example, tell your partner to pack their bags before the weekend. Don’t tell them where you are taking them but plan a trip away that fits in with your budget. Choose a romantic little bed and breakfast and bring rose petals to scatter along the entrance or in the bath to add that extra touch. A cheaper getaway could be just a camp out in the backyard or down the beach or even in a random field somewhere. It doesn’t really matter where, but getting away just breaks up the monotony of everyday life.
If you want to add some spontaneity to your regular date night, have a small gift on standby ready to surprise your lover with. Think of something that has a personal touch for them to make it extra special. If your partner is a collector of something, get them a gift they’ll appreciate. Maybe your partner has a tiring job and complains about feeling exhausted all the time – get them a day spa voucher, or better yet give them a full-body massage yourself.
Just by being receptive to what your partner needs or desires will open up so many more opportunities and ideas for creating special occasions they’ll love.
Play games
Add a little bit of fun to your average date night by playing silly games with one another when out and about. For example, play hide and seek with your partner in a nightclub and SMS clues as to where you are hiding. Then when you reunite, pause in a quiet corner for a smooch.
Speak with a different accent when out for dinner, and be sure to order something different to mix things up.
Make some rules for the night – e.g. you’re not allowed to break physical contact, even whilst eating or going to the toilet. This could make for an interesting night!
Play the “ABC Game” – where you take it in turns getting your partner to do something for you beginning with the letter you’re up to. This could range from “D” – Dance on a streetlamp, to “K” – Kiss me on my neck. Use your imagination and see how much fun you can have. If you’re safe from prying eyes, don’t forget you can use the adult version of this game!
Making a regular date night more romantic is easy if you both put in a little bit of time and effort, and it works wonders for keeping the excitement alive in your relationship. It’s so easy to create a romantic atmosphere by simply adding that personal touch to show your partner how much you love and care for them. Remember to have fun, forget your worries, and cherish every moment you share as you create lasting memories together.