Photo by Taryn Elliott
It’s hard not to feel like everyone on the internet is having the world’s most extravagant date nights. One minute it’s matching outfits and candlelit dinners on a rooftop, the next it’s a private hot tub in a treehouse with a violinist in the corner. Okay, sure, it’s just TikTok influencers doing this, but as a working mom (or not), you deserve that type of pampering, right? Well, meanwhile, most couples are just trying to agree on what to eat without starting a full-blown debate.
But thankfully, a date night doesn’t need to cost a thing to feel special. Nope, no fancy dress code, no pre-booked reservations, no overpriced cocktails. Just quality time that doesn’t drain the bank account or the energy levels.
Movie Night, But Actually Good
Everyone says “let’s have a movie night” like it’s a plan, but then it turns into scrolling endlessly and rewatching the same thing again. But a proper movie night needs a bit of thought, yes, it actually deserves some thought! No, this doesn’t immediately mean a fancy popcorn or some over-the-top setup (people do that on social media, but you don’t need to do that), instead, it’s just a film or show that actually holds attention.
But even documentaries can be an option, because why not, right? But really, you should try something like the Clive Davis documentary on Netflix. Yeah, sure, it sounds random, but it’s packed with music legends, wild stories, and moments that’ll have people pausing just to say “wait, what?” It’s the kind of watch that leads to actual conversations, and maybe even a spontaneous playlist session afterward. But of course, this is merely one example, just watch whatever will spark joy.
Walks that Feel More Like Wandering
Sometimes, just heading out for a walk with no real plan can feel surprisingly nice. No goal, no steps-counting app, just the two of you rambling around like pensioners with opinions. Talk about nonsense, spot weirdly decorated houses, and argue over which dog you’d adopt if you were ready for one. But really, the right walk can feel like a proper escape, and it doesn’t require petrol, tickets, or anything more than a decent pair of shoes and maybe a hoodie.
The Living Room Glow-Up
Okay, so no one’s saying build a full fort with structural engineering, but moving the coffee table, chucking some pillows on the floor, and turning off the big light can totally change the vibe. Put on some music, light a candle that’s been sitting around collecting dust, and suddenly it’s a cosy little bubble that feels way more romantic than it has any right to be.
Besides, it’s not about pretending to be anywhere else. It’s about making the space feel different enough to shake off the usual routine. That’s half the fun.
Memory Lane is Always Free
Yes! Seriously, you have to try this one! Just grab your phones and scroll back to those early photos, the cringey ones, the sweet ones, the ones that make you laugh out loud. Or pull out that box of stuff one of you probably saved but never admits to having. Old notes, tickets from random outings, screenshots of messages from back when things were new.
It’s a free trip to the beginning without leaving the couch, and honestly, sometimes that’s all it takes to feel closer again.
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