If you aren’t really the romantic type, making your partner feel special may seem like an insurmountable task. When you consider traditional romantic moves, such as fancy dinners, five-star hotel stays and fancy flower delivery, it can seem expensive, time consuming or simply out of reach. Fortunately, there are little ways you can connect with your partner on a truly romantic level without having to go overboard.
Save time
Not in the mood to peruse your local store’s gift card selection? And why are all the cards so “not-you” anyway? Push your chair up to your desk and make your own cards using photos and graphics from a site like Shutterstock. You can gush about your awesome relationship using words that you would actually say in conversation, instead of some greeting card poem, interjecting details that only the two of you can truly appreciate. Homemade cards really show that you are thinking about your sweetheart without even having to leave your home to make it happen.
Save money
A homemade dinner, served in your own dining room, can be way more personal and touching than a super romantic dinner at an expensive restaurant. Either create dishes that you both love, or try something new. You can even serve food along a certain theme, such as the colors of a rainbow, exploring a new culture or along the lines of a favorite movie. Decorate your place using things you already have, such as half-used candles or an old tablecloth. And if cooking is more than you want to deal with, order in — the ambiance will be the same, but with far less work.
Stay close
Instead of striking out for a weekend getaway, which sounds super romantic (but can cost at lot, in both time and money), plan a “staycation” date of sorts, without committing to hotel stays or overnight accommodations. Look at your city from the eyes of a tourist — what would you tell someone coming from hundreds of miles away to see and do? Taking your date on an in-town date, hitting all those popular hotspots that you might not have visited in years, can be refreshing and fun — and yes, romantic. It won’t take a ton of planning on your part, and it’s still lively and entertaining.
Stay yourself
If you are worried that you have to give your date chocolates and flowers to be romantic, but they aren’t really your thing, don’t spend too much time stressing about it. Romance is more genuine when you do little things for your partner that are truly reflective of how you feel instead of what you think you should do. For example, when you first go on a date with someone, give them a small gift that is honestly you, such as a lovely pen, a salt-and-pepper set, or a brand-new journal. While they may seem like odd gifts to give on a date, this sort of a present is actually ideal and will last longer than flowers or chocolate. It will also help your date remember you long after your night has ended. And also, if you have the ability to without looking like a stalker, make sure to take time and send a note — a text or an email is nice, but an actual handwritten note can really make an impression on your date that may hopefully lead to many more.
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