How to Plan a Casual Date at Home

Getting out for a walk, visiting a fancy restaurant, going to the movies—these are all great activities for a memorable date night, but these are certainly not the only great ideas. If 'Netflix and chill' is the only thing that comes to your mind when you think about the perfect stay-at-home date, then you're missing out on so many fun options. Having wonderful date nights at home is one of the best ways to keep the love fire burning and your relationship thriving while at home. If that sounds appealing to you, then consider these stress-free tips to help you set up the perfect stay-at-home date night.

Set the Scene

The first thing you'll need to do is set the scene by preparing your home for the special occasion. Start by deciding which part of your home will be the best place to set your table. The best option generally depends on what you prefer as a couple. For instance, you can set your table in your garden, in your dining area, or even on your bed if you prefer. But while you'll only need a small space in your home, it is important to keep your entire home as clean and organized as possible. Doing this is important if you want to create the right mood for the date. So take the time to get rid of clutter lying around, put away the laundry, vacuum the floor or hire a professional carpet cleaner, and make your space clean and tidy. Also, consider any extra items you might need to add to the special moment and ensure they are available. For example, are you considering a candle-lit date? Then get some large silver candlesticks, create your ideal playlist, open a bottle of wine, and put on some soft music wafting through the air.

Plan, Plan, Plan

Perfect moments ofen require diligent planning. Planning a date at home can get stressful at times, so be sure to put significant thought into how you want your date to pan out. First, decide on your preferred menu. If you're planning a surprise date, you'll have to figure out what your partner would like to eat without spoiling the secret. If you're not sure what to make, it's best to opt for something simple yet delicious. For example, you can try a smoked tri tip recipe which cooks quickly and very easily and is sure to impress your partner. If cooking isn't your thing, you can order food instead and save yourself the stress. Also, dont forget to select your preferred drinks and get them chilled ahead of time.

Cook Dinner Together

Cooking can be a lot of fun if you decide to get your partner involved; and there are two ways to go about it. First, you can cook together in preparation for your date by deciding with your partner what you'll both love to eat and cooking it together. This way, you'll share the work, and it becomes less stressful. The second option is to cook as a part of your date night activity. First-time lovebirds or couples that hardly cook together will likely find this a very entertaining option. The goal here isn't necessary to create a perfect meal, but rather to get both of you a special moment to bond and have fun. So don't be afraid to make mistakes when cooking together. Chances are, you'll remember each burned cookie and poorly seasoned meat with smiles on your faces.

Pick an Activity

Your date night shouldn't start and end with your meal, as that will make it too short and even a little boring. Try to add simple and fun activities before or after your meal. Of course, you can grab a couple of drinks, dim the lights, turn on the TV, cuddle up to 'Netflix and chill', but you can also add so much more to your special time together. For instance, you can spend a few minutes star-gazing outside and talking, you can play some fun board or video games, or you can turn on the music and dance with your partner. The most important thing here is that both of you have fun and create moments that will linger in your memories.

Watch a Film: If you have an amazing home cinema system (we're thinking surround sound, a big screen, and 4k), you don't need to leave the house to have an amazing date. The film will sound and look practically as good as in the cinema and it will be even more romantic since you can watch in your PJs. This will be even more the case if you have a big TV, a projector, or even a video wall which will make your date night even more special and the film even more immersive. Just warm the popcorn, pop the cork of the wine bottle, and press play.
Play Board Games: Go retro and play some board games. This will get you chatting, will help you to know if you are compatible, and–let's face it–it's fun. What is more, playing board games such as chess, Monopoly, or Scrabble will allow you to actually get to know each other unlike some places where people go to dates where–you must admit–it is often too busy and too noisy to have a meaningful conversation.
Get Crafty: For something a little more unique, why not arrange painting nights at your own home? Whether you're looking for something to do with a date, a long-term partner, or a group of good friends, paint nights are a great way to lighten the atmosphere while engaging in great conversation. Plus, by the end of the night, you'll have a new piece of artwork to display in your home.
Play Video Games: Many smartphones now have an amazing selection of games including many of the traditional board games in electronic format, and some can be accessed via a free games download. You don't even need a console; although, if you have one, you may be able to find some deals at The Old School Game Vault. Also, if you have a home cinema set up, then playing video games will be even more fun. Just don't get too competitive, as nothing will kill the mood more.