We all need to take time out of our busy lives to rest, relax, and recharge. Whether we're in the mood for romance or something more laid back, a quiet night spent in the comfort of home with a significant other can be exactly what we need to recoup our energy, rekindle our passion, and make some precious new memories.
But making time for these essential moments is far from easy. It takes effort and commitment to break from our busy routine. As Jim Ramsey, a licensed marriage and family therapist who is certified with The Gottman Institute, says, “The word intentional is where it counts."
If you're looking for inspiration for a lowkey but fun-filled time with your special someone, here are 12 creative at-home date night ideas that are sure to keep you both engaged and entertained.
1. Dinner and a very special movie
Dinner and a movie is a no-fail date idea, but why not make it really special by reliving one of your first moments as a couple? Rather than simply picking out a movie from your queue, hunt down the first film you two watched in theaters together.
Consider starting with great food — perhaps a to-go dessert from your favorite restaurant or a gourmet ready-made meal. Classic theater snacks like popcorn and candy can help further transform your home into a movie-watching experience.
Speaking of theaters, consider implementing theater rules as you watch. Put your phones down and focus on what's important — immersing yourselves in the moment and strengthening the bond you share with each other.
2. Hold a competition
A little friendly competition is a great way to bring you closer together — but remember to keep things friendly.
Ramsey notes that “all the research determines that the heart of a good marriage or relationship is friendship." So, remember: The point of the activity is to laugh, make memories, and have fun.
Consider having a cook-off or bake-off (did someone say cookie decorating?). These can be a blast, even if you can't or don't like to cook, because the mistakes are often hilarious, and the successes are delicious.
Talent contests can also be fun. To keep it lighthearted, consider a competition where you both perform similar displays of talent, such as a lip sync battle.
3. Make a bucket list
One way to share your hopes, dreams, and passions in a purposeful, meaningful manner is by making a bucket list.
“The foundation of everything is connections," Ramsey says, “The more you connect and take time to intentionally be with your loved one, the more solid the relationship is."
By sitting down for a cozy at-home date night to connect and share the more profound parts of yourself with your partner, you are actively working to strengthen the friendship on which your relationship is built. Using a fun activity — like making a bucket list — is an engaging way to tap into those more personal moments and rediscover the depth and beauty your significant other has.
4. Have an indoor picnic
Set down that checkerboard blanket and have a relaxing picnic right in your living room. Open all the blinds and let the rays of sunshine peek through as you sip wine and sample cheeses. Make it as fancy as you'd like. Use this as an opportunity to share any unspoken thoughts you have as you gaze lovingly into each other's eyes.
5. Go on a second first date
Similar to watching the first movie you two saw together, travel back to a simpler and sweeter time by staging your first date from your home. Serve the same meal or cuisine, invite the friends you were with at the time, or turn your home into the venue you enjoyed on that memorable day. If you went to the town fair, set up carnival games and serve funnel cake. This is the time to get creative and make it special!
6. DIY together
Pick a simple project the two of you can do together. Whether you're decorating, reorganizing, tackling a difficult yet delicious recipe, or simply decorating cookies, you'll find any of these activities to be quality time spent.
7. Relive memories
Grab that dusty stack of photo albums out of the attic and relive the memories you've made together. If your relationship is relatively new, this is a good opportunity to go through baby albums and learn more about your special someone.
8. Do a wine tasting
Does your sweetie have sophisticated taste? Set up a wine tasting for the two of you to sample some favorites, old and new. Keep track of the comments your companion makes — this information may come in handy when planning future dates.
9. Plan your dream vacation
Whether or not you actually have the vacation time, discussing the vacation of your dreams together is time well spent. Not only does it allow you to break up the monotony of the day, but it is a fantastic way to learn more about each other. You may be surprised to learn that your sweetie's dream vacation is snorkeling with sharks or snowboarding off the highest mountains!
10. Make a scrapbook
Rather than just putting photos in an album, get crafty by turning those photographic memories into a stunning scrapbook. Use themed paper and stickers to turn this project into something the two of you will love showing off for years to come.
11. Plant a special seed
While February is still chilly, there are some plants, such as tomatoes and peppers, that can already be planted. Choose one seed and plant it with your sweetie in a special spot. Like your love, this plant will grow with a little patience and some TLC. Once the plant is grown, show it off or enjoy it with a romantic meal.
12. Have a game night
Keep the games PG or add your own romantic twist to them for a more sensual evening — the possibilities are endless!
AUTHOR
Beginning her writing career as a print journalist, Hanna Marcus worked as a beat reporter and general assignment reporter in newsrooms throughout Florida including The Tampa Bay Times, The Orlando Sentinel, The Naples Daily News, and The Gainesville Sun. Now a full-time freelance writer, she writes for clients such as Hot Topic, New Balance, BoxLunch, and others.