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Romantic Ideas for Every Stage of a Relationship
By Miranda Davis
There’s no doubt about it, relationships change over time. If you’ve been in a relationship for a while, you’re probably familiar with the different stages that most relationships go through. Even if you’re still dating people you meet on the best dating sites review, you’ve probably noticed a difference between a first date and a date after a few weeks.
Early dates are often casual and gradually become more passionate and romantic as you get to know each other. This romance is likely to wane – replaced by comfortable familiarity, friendship, and intimacy – as couples enter the commitment phase of their relationship. However, this doesn’t mean that romantic ideas for long-term couples are off the table. It just means you need a different type of date to stoke the fires of romance.
Want to put some sizzle back into your love life? Wondering what are romantic date ideas for different relationship stages? Check out our top suggestions!
What Are Romantic Ideas for Each Relationship Stage?
1. The First Date
First dates should be kept casual and low maintenance. This helps to set people at ease and keep the mood relaxed. When you’re arranging a first date, you should also try to keep it open-ended. Don’t pencil in anything that leaves you stranded together or that means you can’t duck out early if it’s not going well. If you’re looking for things to do to be romantic on a first date, try to think quirky yet casual, rather than bold and extravagant.
A picnic is a great first date idea. Its light, can be kept short and sweet, and there’s no pressure to spend money or have it go on all day. It’s also personal and gives you a chance to chat while being fun and different.
For pro points, try to pick somewhere that’s close to other locations. A central park close to shops or bars is perfect. It means you can take your date indoors for a drink later if it’s going well and it gives you plenty of options for toilet breaks. On top of this, people-watching is a great conversation starter.
2. The Honeymoon Phase
You’ve done it – you’re blissfully in love! The honeymoon phase is wonderful and usually involves you living in your own little couple’s bubble for a while. During the honeymoon phase, you’ve probably got no end of romantic ideas. However, sometimes the best type of date for this phase is something that shakes you out of your bubble a bit.
This is the stage of your relationship where you will, hopefully, progress from being idealistic lovers to being companions and building memories together. These memories are often built around your shared passions and interests, so try to incorporate these into dates. Go and see a band you both love or visit a theme park or try an adventurous new style of cuisine. Getting out of your comfort zone together will set you up to be partners in crime for the long haul.
3. The Commitment Phase
Once you’ve entered the commitment phase, your relationship is likely at a secure, stable point and you are comfortable with the idea of being together long-term. Now that you’ve been together for a while, it’s likely that you’re out of your honeymoon bubble and that the pressures of everyday life are something you contend with. Relationships in this phase are usually about relaxing and enjoying life together and about supporting each other when times get tough.
Some great romantic ideas for the commitment phase are things like going on a relaxing trip together or enjoying a spa day. If you’re looking for romantic ideas for her, think of things like a couples’ massage or a dreamy weekend location with a pool. In terms of romantic ideas for him, maybe a trip to a brewery or whisky tasting or a chance to try a new hobby like surfing or rock climbing.
4. Romantic Ideas for Long-Term Couples
Even in the best long-term relationships, it can be hard to keep the spark alive. In fact, if you’re looking for romantic ideas, this is the time to make an effort. You can keep things simple with a classy meal out or go to see a play or concert together.
If you’re a long-term couple in lockdown, introducing romance can be doubly tricky. If you’re looking for romantic ideas at home, why not try cooking for each other or cooking together? Even simple things, like surprising your partner with a candlelit bath or a Zoom concert, can be great romantic ideas for lockdown.
Conclusion
As relationships mature, it’s important to understand their different stages and know some tricks to keep the passion alive. Remember, little things can mean a lot when it comes to matters of the heart. Next time the mood strikes you, try shaking things up and bringing a little romance into your life!
Final Call: What is your favorite type of date? Are you single and enjoying the thrill of first dates, or have you been in a couple for a while? Share your romantic stories in the comments!
Image #1 by Khoa Vo
Image #2 by Artem Beliaikin
Image #3 by Natalie
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Miranda Davis is a freelance writer in the relation and psychology area. Miranda is interested in such topics as building healthy relationships between people, love/sex compatibility, and how to find the right balance in life in general. She is currently doing specific research on the topic. Miranda loves cooking and long-distance walking.