It is a common misconception that exorbitant amounts of money must be spent on romance in order to have fun. Although trips to Europe and personalized fireworks shows are wonderful, they are hardly practical or even possible for most couples. Contrary to popular belief, there are plenty of ways to thrill and delight your spouse without losing your life’s savings. From low-key yet intensely personal dates to small, meaningful gifts, all it takes is a little creativity and tenderness to make your spouse melt. Following are some good ideas for inexpensive dates and gifts to keep them coming back.
Stargaze! There is nothing more romantic than a moonlit drive to the countryside, where there is minimal light pollution and maximum date potential. Lie down in the grass with your spouse and appreciate the beauty of nature while reconnecting to your spontaneous side. Take the opportunity to cuddle and enjoy one another’s presence while surrounded by natural beauty.
Cook a romantic meal at home! Most couples put too much emphasis on going to fancy, expensive restaurants. Romance your spouse by doing something for him or her, rather than paying someone else to. Using ingredients that are already in your kitchen, put together a delicious dinner complete with appetizers and dessert. It may surprise you how much your spouse appreciates the hard work you put into making him or her a special meal.
Give her a bouquet of flowers! I’m not talking about 1-800-Flowers, here. I’m talking about freshly picked wildflowers that you selected yourself. Store-bought bouquets of red roses are beautiful, but your wife will love the personality and unique nature of a hand-picked bouquet.
Stay home and have a movie night! You probably own all of your favorite movies, but never take the time to watch them. Tonight, dust off the DVD player and curl up on the couch with your spouse. Munch on microwaved popcorn and laugh and cry along with your best-loved films.
Play games together! Nothing livens up a date night like a cutthroat game of poker or an intense round of Sorry! You and your spouse will laugh together and playfully compete without any real high stakes. You can just have fun and enjoy one another.
The key to romantic, low-budget dates and gifts is to keep it personal. You know your spouse’s quirks, hobbies, and ideas of fun, so why spend money on impersonal and expensive activities and things? Remember what you and your spouse used to do in the earlier days of your romance, and reconnect to the youthfulness and spontaneity that made the two of you fall in love. It doesn’t take a lot of money to make someone who loves you happy. Keep in mind that your company is enough. Your very desire to reinvigorate your romance will thrill your spouse and touch her heart. Romance on a budget is easier and more rewarding than it may initially seem.