“A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” - Unknown
Marriage takes a lot of work, love, and time. G and I work hard to ensure that we are happy. Below are tips we use in our marriage. While we are far from perfect, these tools work for best for us.
- Try new things. We enjoy a lot of the same activities. However, our interests vary. For example, one time G expressed interest in doing a Segway tour. I was a bit nervous of the idea. Yet, one year for his birthday, I surprised him with Segway lessons with a tour of downtown historical Richmond, VA. The real treat was that I would be doing it with him. Surprisingly, I ended up having so much fun! We tried a new activity together and absolutely had a blast. The tour brought us closer together. G was so happy that I was adventurous and tried something new.
- Cook together. The typical dinner and movie is cool. Yet, some of our favorite date nights are spent at home relaxing together. I absolutely love cooking, and G enjoys good food - clearly we are a match made in heaven. Anytime I want to try a new recipe he assists me. We shop together to pick out items for our meal. Luckily G is a grill-master and loves cooking. Often times, our meals at home are just as tasty as some of the restaurants we go to!
- Compliment each other. It is so important to compliment your spouse before, during, and after date night. Take note of what they are wearing or the amount of effort they put into making the date super special. Flattery gets you everywhere!
- Surprise them. Some of my most memorable dates with my husband, were when G told me, "Reservations are at 7 PM, and wear this dress." It's really cool to see him excited about something he was so thoughtful in planning. G made the night fun and very romantic ... most importantly I was swept off my feet.
- Write them a love letter. Words mean a lot to me. When G realized that he started writing love notes. Now we both write each other notes. Find out what your partner loves, whether it be words or acts of service. Do something that will be meaningful to your spouse.
- Set a date. Pick a day and time, whether it is every Friday night, or once a month. Carve out a moment where it is just the two of you. Work, family, or just life sometimes play a factor, in spending quality time. Make sure your spouse knows that they are indeed important to you. G and I have our weekly scheduled date nights. Every month when the 26th* rolls around, we open one of our favorite wines. G & I take time to reflect on some of our best moments together.
*The 26th is the day we got married, so every month we spend extra time making that day sweet.
What are some ways you date your spouse or partner?
XO, Analise
Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography