Home Date Ideas: the Right Romantic Touches

With three rowdy little guys running around my house all day, it’s important to have a special evening at home from time to time. It keeps the sparks of romance alive and is rejuvenating for weary parents. When was the last time you had a romantic evening?

Ambiance has everything to do with setting the mood. Unfortunately, when there are curious hands around the house, we have a tendency to forego the delicate, romantic touches that we enjoyed in our not-so-baby proofed days. The good news is, with a few elegant touches, your living room can be a cozy setting for a romantic rendezvous.

Lighting: Turning down the lights and adding candles makes a room feel warm and relaxing. If you’re concerned about open flames, there are plenty of flameless alternatives in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, designs and scents (like the Candle Breeze collection). Another way to get a soft glow with a little pizazz is to string a potted ficus tree with twinkle lights. It’s sparkly and different. Your extra effort will be appreciated.

Music: Whether you prefer instrumental compositions, easy listening pop tunes or the cool croons of the Rat Pack, well-chosen music fills a room with romantic vibes. Plug in your MP3 player or pop in a CD and enjoy the sweet melodies. For an added touch, if you have a record player, nothing will transport you to a simpler time like the classic sound of a softly crackling vinyl album.

Fragrance: Scent is a strong trigger for emotion. Find a diffuser, or candle, that echoes a familiar scent from a happy occasion you shared. Did you honeymoon in Hawaii? Find something tropical. Propose on Christmas? Cinnamon or peppermint, while unconventional for romance, may be just the ticket. The importance is personal significance.

Flowers: Be it a single rose or bouquet of stargazer lilies, flowers are always beautiful. And when your date is over, you can move them to your bedside table for a reminder of the evening.

Chocolate: Buy a box of luxurious box of truffles or dip some strawberries. Chocolate is delicious and has some aphrodisiac qualities, too. Two words: Yes, Please.

Stemware: Wine, champagne or sparkling juice will add romance to any evening. Sipping from a beautiful glass adds elegance and makes us feel relaxed, yet refined. It’s hard to find that loving feeling when you’re wound up or so beat you can’t find a smile. Putting your favorite drink in fancy stemware instantly impacts your mood. It just feels beautiful.

Even popcorn and a movie feels like a special treat when you transform your family room from a giant toy box into a couple’s retreat. Take a little time to add some romance to your evening and you’ll both feel relaxed and just plain old-fashioned in love.

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