There are a million reasons to show your significant other that you care. From the way they sometimes drive you crazy to the way they know you like no one else does--from the jittery first date to the just-as-special 100th date--planning special outings or "date nights" is important maintenance for any relationship. People get caught up in the routine of everyday life so much that they forget to be available for the one person they love the most. Whether your relationship is in the beginning stages, or is well-worn and tried and true, read on for our guide to planning the most romantic at-home date night for your better half.
Look the Part
Spend some time getting ready for your date night. You'll feel great and look good--it's a win-win.
Date night at home is the new "going out". Dodge the crowds and long wait times, avoid the waiter interrupting at the most inopportune time, and escape the blackout darkness of an impersonal movie theater by relishing in the convenience of your own place. But just because this date is happening at home does not mean you should skimp on the attire. Ditch the pjs and sweats in exchange for some nice duds because dressing up for your partner on your night of romance is definitely part of the fun.
Date Night Tip: For couples with kids, it can be really hard to leave the house for a romantic night on the town. (When did babysitters get so expensive?) A weekly at-home date night can keep the spark alive--without breaking the bank. Invest in a good baby monitor and let the festivities begin when the little ones go off to dream land.
Catch the Sunset
Take in a sunset from the coziness of a Presidential Size Hammock by Pawleys Island. No trees? No problem. Just don't forget the stand.
Call us cheesy--but when was the last time you truly sat down and watched a sunset? There is nothing quite like taking in the last few drops of glorious sunshine before the sun retreats down over the horizon. Grab a bottle of your favorite vintage, put together a cheese and charcuterie plate, and head out to the backyard to experience the loveliness. Spread out a big blanket--or opt for a cozy hammock built for two. Sip your Merlot or Chardonnay, nibble your cheeses, and take it all in.
- Start with a wooden cutting board. (Or get a little fancy with a Himalayan Salt Block.)
- Add some sliced meats such as peppered salami, rolled prosciutto, or smoked ham. (Bonus points for fancy folds!)
- Next, complement your meats with a variety of cheeses--you can stick with a cuisine theme (Italian, French, or Spanish) or go for an international assortment.
- Fill in the extra spaces with olives, nuts, or fruit and--voila!
Set the Mood
Left: Gorgeous Lumen Fire Pits by Brown Jordan Fires create instant ambiance. Right: Romantic Element Torches by Terra Flame can beautifully frame a pathway or property line.
Once the sun goes down, you may find that there is nowhere else you would rather be than in the arms of your special someone. Extend the hammock cuddle session with some beautiful fire features. Tiki torches, lanterns, or tabletop fireplaces are an excellent way to add a little bit of light without killing the ambiance. As the light of the sun starts to wane, watch as your backyard comes alive with the glow of dancing flames.
Date Night Tip: Add tiki fuel that is infused with citronella oil, a known Mosquito repellent, to your tiki torches to make sure you don't end up with any unwanted love bites.
Play the Game
Sink into a super-comfy Monterra Lounge Chair by OW Lee as you play by the fire.
For this romantic night in, take advantage of the time alone with your person to find out things you never knew about them. Pull up a comfy chair around a blazing fire pit and break out a game or two--maybe even one that will spark a conversation into unknown territory. We love the icebreaker card game called TableTopics. Playing a game of "cocktail conversation starters" will have you laughing and talking long into the night by the beautiful glow of fire light.
S'MORE than a Feeling
Everyone loves a perfectly roasted marshmallow. Just don't let that baby burn too long.
S'mores aren't just for camping. To wrap up your date night under the stars, grab a marshmallow roasting stick, a bag of marshmallows, some graham crackers, Hershey's chocolate bars--and get to work. With a backyard fire pit in your corner, s'mores make a fun and interactive way of enjoying dessert.
Date Night Tip: Make a s'mores bar to put a new spin on an old classic. Play around with adding fruit or different types of candy bars, such as Twix, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, or Kit Kats. Grab some inspiration for your ultimate s'mores bar from Eazy Peazy Mealz. Take turns roasting each other's marshmallows and building each other's s'mores. Because food always tastes better when someone else makes it for you.
Cliches exist for a reason. Flowers and candles are innately dreamy and are an easy way to bring the romance to a scene.
Armed with the right inspiration, tools, and ideas, you will be able to plan the most beautiful and romantic night for your special person, without leaving home. Let us know how it went! Reach out to us on our Facebook or Instagram and tag us in your date night post! If you have any questions about the tips mentioned here, feel free to call our experts at (866) 578-8538, chat us live on the site, or contact us here. Please note: Our experts are not qualified to give relationship advice, but we do love talking about fire.
Main Image: A bottle of Champagne, a picnic blanket, and a Charcuterie Plate will start your date night out with a "pop" of romance.
