The benefits of date night for a relationship are clear. But let’s be honest, sometimes it is just plain hard to make it work. Kid schedules, work schedules, sleep schedules, fatigue—the reasons pile up as to why date night just won’t work this week. But the great thing about date night is there doesn’t have to be any rules or guidelines. It doesn’t always have to be a fancy night out. Sometimes the most meaningful date nights happen right in your own home.
5 At-Home Date Night Ideas
Take it Outside
Who says “at home” date night as to always be inside? After you tuck the kids in bed, grab your favorite drink and head outside. You might be asking yourself what the difference is between sitting inside on the couch and talking and heading out to the backyard. The difference is when you’re outside, your eyes won’t wander to the laundry in the corner or the dishes in the sink. Changing it up and spending time outside gives you the chance to really focus on each other and not get distracted by all the other little instances of “life.”
Be a Kid Again
Once upon a time, my husband and I had a date night out planned. As luck would have it, the babysitter fell through, and we had to improvise with an at-home date night. Trying not to end up asleep at 8pm (not that there’s anything wrong with that), my husband ran to Target and picked up a coloring book and some snacks. Back at home, we broke out the colored pencils, treats, and music from our childhood and teenage years. It ended up being such a fun night! Don’t be afraid to go back to simpler times and play a game or color while you chat and reconnect.
Cook a New Meal
I’ll admit, some things are just better at a restaurant where you don’t have to cook or clean up after yourself. However, every once in a while, it can be nice to try something new and adventurous at home. Go through a cooking blog or unique cookbook and choose one or two dishes to cook together. Set a pretty table and enjoy the fruit of your labors in the comfort of your own home.
Plan a Vacation
Whether or not a vacation for the two of you is a reality for the near future, just the thought of it can be fun. Each of you can choose a destination, research places to stay and things to do there, and share with each other. Browse travel websites to see what possibilities are out there. Make plans for it to happen in the future or improvise with what you have. A couple of years ago, life was overwhelming me, and I REALLY wished I was laying on a beach somewhere. My husband went and bought a couple of tiki torches, filled our kiddie pool with sand and made me a fruit smoothie. We sat outside in the backyard (see the first idea), and for a few minutes it was almost like we were on a tropical island.
Ask Each Other Questions
Despite the years you have spent together, chances are there are still things you don’t know about each other. And over the years we grow, evolve, and change. Taking a date night every now and then to ask each other new questions to get to know each other in different ways can help you connect on a deeper level. Browse the internet for lists of questions to ask your partner or make it a tradition to ask a question or two at each date night going forward.
What are your ideas for at-home date nights?
Absolutely love this post. Inspired!