Imagine sitting at a quaint candlelit table for two along the canal in Italy as the gondolas gently pass you by.
This would be an amazing evening, but there are a couple of problems with it. One, it is in Italy. Two, where do you find the time, money, and childcare?
Don’t forgo all your hopes for the perfect Valentine’s date yet, there are still options that bring fun and intimacy to the relationship without having to have an elaborate time away from home.
We have the perfect Valentine’s Day dates for you and your better half, and the best part is that you never have to leave your home to fulfill them.
Seems too good to be true? Well, read on and be amazed.
- Dinner and a Movie
This is called the classic date for a reason. It is always fun! Even if the movie stinks, you can joke around with your spouse about the unbelievable scenes.
Dinner can be an ornate meal you had planned ahead, or just takeout. Eating by candlelight is a must though. Nothing gives ambiance quite like dancing flames.
Go all out with the movie to imitate an evening at the cinemas, fully equipped with popcorn candy, and drinks. And, try to pick something that’s not animated, we know you have watched enough children’s flicks to last a lifetime.
- Karaoke
Singing in front of someone is usually an embarrassing event that makes you feel vulnerable, all while laughing incessantly, of course.
You may be hesitant to perform your favorite rendition of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” in front of strangers, but in front of your spouse you can attempt to hit every high note.
Plus, you will never have felt closer when the music has stopped. Huff Post reports:
“A new study from researchers at the University of Oxford has found that communal singing, more than any other activity they tested, made people feel closer to each other faster.”
- Become a Mixologist
Going out for cocktails is fun, but it can be even more fun to make your own at home (for half the cost).
Attempting to make James Bond’s martini order, or that fruity concoction you had at the beach last summer will bring you both good times.
You can even make a signature drink together to commemorate the perfect Valentine’s Day date.
- Blanket Under the Stars
There is nothing more romantic than cuddling under the stars with a glass of red wine and a blanket.
Prepare a list of constellations you can find together ahead of time. Race to find each one, the winner getting a prize such as choosing the next date, or a 5-minute foot massage.
This can be on the deck or in the backyard, wherever there is a view of the stars and your spouse in hand.
- Dance the Night Away
Going dancing is one of those things that most people love the intimacy of, but can rarely find the time and place to do it.
Wait no longer! There is no better dance floor than the living room rug. Make a compilation of your favorite dance tunes, maybe switching it up with slow songs and upbeat tracks.
There are even dance lessons for free online that you can attempt together, finding out if your significant other still has two left feet.
- Cook Like a Pro
Cooking classes are a hit right now, where a couple is instructed by a chef on how to prepare fancy cuisine.
You are in luck, because you can get the whole effect without paying an arm and a leg for it right in your own kitchen.
Choose one of the many cooking shows online and lay out the ingredients. Have you and your spouse take turns in your culinary creation.
When it is all said and done, you will have the resemblance of a fine dining meal, a big mess that you can worry about later, and a lot of happy memories.
- Show Off Your Competitive Edge
Competing can bring out a side of somebody that is rarely ever seen. So, naturally, a little friendly competition with your beloved will help you to connect more fully.
There are plenty of at-home games that can get the blood pumping and the competitive juices flowing.
Pillow fighting, video games, trivia, or competitive cup stacking are all great games to try your hand at, hopefully coming out victorious.
- Get a Massage
A day at the spa is like being stroked by angels in the warm embrace of Heaven. There are massages, facials, heated everything, and big white robes that make you feel like a queen.
Most of this is completely doable at home. Be sure to get the big fluffy white robes ahead of time to authenticate the experience.
You can either hire a masseuse to come to the house to do a couple’s massage, or you can take turns giving each other one.
Sit back and enjoy a facial with cucumbers over the eyes, while you tell each other your goals and thoughts on the year ahead.
- Ice Cream Taste Testing
Have all your favorite things combined into one magical evening with ice cream, laughter, and your all-star spouse.
Buy several different varieties of ice cream then blind-fold your unsuspecting guinea pig. Feed them a spoonful of each one, having them guess which flavor it is.
Enjoy a bowl of your favorite ice cream without little mouths snapping at your spoon, while cozied on the couch. Talk about the highlights of your marriage, or catch up on a favorite television series.
I mean, who doesn’t like ice cream, right?
- Get Room Service
The best part of any romantic weekend getaway is room service. As parents, you are always waiting on the children hand and foot.
Now it is time for you to kick back and have things available to you. Order take-out to eat in bed with the love of your life.
You can even go all out with rose petals leading to the room like a hotel, or fold a swan out of the towels.
Have some trays made ahead of time with cheese and wine, and chocolate covered strawberries.
If you really want to make the most of it, take a double bath with the pre-arranged trays nearby. And, don’t forget about those big, fluffy white robes for lounging around.
Whichever wonderful option you choose, don’t forget the important part is having time alone with one another where you can re-ignite the flame between husband and wife.
Going out for dates can definitely be fun, but they are also often distracting like many other things in life.
Have an intimate night in to take a break from the high demands of parenthood, and enjoy each other.
(h/t Mommy Underground)