I can’t be the only mom who had high expectations of their marriage once kiddos came. I couldn’t imagine why parents didn’t just hire babysitters and get out on the town once a week like we were doing pre-kids.
Then . . . my sweet kids came along, and I suddenly understood. Getting out as parents is NOT as simple as just hiring a babysitter or dropping the kids at Grandma’s and going out. The coordination, the money, the trust, the worry . . . they all burden us and let’s be real, they often prevent us from taking a little night out as parents.
Lately, my husband and I have been working hard to keep the flame going with date nights at home. It can sound corny, but I promise, friends, there are great date night options for every type of couple at home. Allow us to suggest some ideas for you and yours. Happy dating!
For the Adventurous Couple
Sure, you may be “stuck” at home next to the baby monitor, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dream of your next getaway! Plan your next vacation–or even a fantasy dream vacation–together on date night. Leave no stone unturned. Think about restaurants to try, experiences to have, hotels to stay in . . . the sky’s the limit (especially if it’s a fantasy vacation!).
For the Artsy Couple
For our artsy couples (or even if you want to be!), try a wine and paint night at home. Grab a photo for inspiration, some canvases, and don’t forget the wine! See what you guys come up with and chat along the way.
For the Chatty Couple
Every once in awhile, I will kindly force my “feelings-in-a-box” husband to get in his feels. Playing get-to-know-you trivia games is a super easy way to get your partner chatting. We have quite a few actual card games with questions to get conversation flowing, but you don’t need an actual set to get started! Consider writing down some questions and taking turns asking them to each other. Here are a few to get you started:
- What is the first thing you noticed about me?
- What is one of your favorite memories of me?
- What is one thing I can do better in our relationship?
- What is one goal you have for our family?
- What celebrity couple would people compare us to?
For the Couple Who Needs a Spa Day
My husband unabashedly LOVES going to the spa. No joke, it is our thing on vacation to go and get a massage and a pedicure. He’s a pretty traditionally masculine dude, but this is one of his favorite activities. We’ve not yet tried a spa night at home, but I imagine he’d be a fan. Think . . . hair masks, pedicures, wax dips, maybe give each other massages. And don’t forget the spa music and robes!
For the Foodie Couple
One of my friends recently purchased a pasta maker and had an adorable date night at home making pasta together. I thought it looked so cute and immediately told my husband about it! If cooking isn’t really your thing (but food still is!), consider getting take out or delivery to your house and having a phones-off candlelight dinner. The food itself isn’t what’s important; it’s the special, intentional time spent together.
For the Gamer Couple
We aren’t huge gamers, but I know a lot of people who are! Whether you’re more team video game or more of a game traditionalist, a game night in is sure to get the laughter and competitive spirit flowing. Some of our favorites include Skyjo, Skip-Bo, and the ever-so-classic Scrabble. What you play doesn’t matter as much as how you play it: together!
For the Romantic Couple
Have you ever thought about recreating your favorite date . . . but doing it at home? For me, it’s hard to top our first date. My now-husband took me to a wine bar/restaurant, then a concert, and then ice cream. How sweet would it be to remake this one at home and to reminisce together on some fond memories?
I hope these ideas are a little something to spark some fun and creativity in your relationship! Enjoy your next date night at home and remember: it doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you do it together.
