Couples (and potential partners) know that going on a date is an integral part of a relationship. For those who have just started dating, it’s an ideal way to get to know your potential partner better, test the waters, and see if you are both compatible. Meanwhile, couples who have been together for a while usually go out to spice up their relationship and to keep the love alive. Whether your weekend is booked for a blind date or a roadtrip with the boyfriend, here are some ideas you can try based on the relationship stage you’re in.
1. Getting-to-know each other stage
The first date is almost always the most intimidating, and rightfully so since meeting someone for the first time can be nerve-wracking. This is also where you get to determine if he gets a second date or not. When choosing what to do and where to go for the first time, you have to consider both of your likes and dislikes.
The ideal date: Keep it simple so go for the tried-and-tested movie date. Aside from being a no-brainer, the only thing you need to prepare is what you’re going to wear. Although it’s deemed as cliché and a safe bet, movie dates are usually the most effective if you want to know more about the person you’re dating: you can get an idea about his interests based on the movie he suggests, and you can also test his personality. For example, if he actually agrees on seeing a chick flick with you, then there’s a good chance that he’s not the controlling type of guy. If you’re still averse to spending two hours or more of staring at a giant screen, just look at it this way: by watching a movie, you already a topic that you can talk about over dinner.
2. Yes, we’re officially together stage
The lyrics to Selena Gomez’s song “Hands to Myself” aptly describe this stage. This is the clingy stage during the first months of your relationship where you both find it hard to be away from each other for long periods of time, and you both seem to forget that there are other people around. Some people find this lovestruck phase cute, while others like your single friends—the regular audience of your PDA—might be sick and tired of it. So do them a favor by laying off the barkada dates for a while and going out with just the two of you this time.
The ideal date: What could be more romantic than a beach trip? Just think about it: with nothing but the sun, sand, sea, and your special someone by your side, it will be a great way to indulge in one of the most memorable stages of your relationship. Whether it’s a vibrant Island or just the nearby shores, it doesn’t really matter as long as you have a stunning sunset to marvel at while taking a stroll along the beach.
3. The comfortable stage
You know you’ve reached the comfortable stage when you no longer feel conscious around your bae even if you’re just clad in your pajamas and without the mounds of makeup that usually take you hours to put on your face. In this uncomplicated stage, pretty much anything goes—you just want the company of each other and nothing else, period. So that leaves lots of date ideas for the both of you.
The ideal date: You know you found someone special if you’re still with him for quite a number of months now. Spare him the agony of waiting for you while you put on makeup by just staying in, ordering pizza, and literally “Netflixing and chilling.” Embrace your inner couch potatoes and binge watch Arrow while cuddling. You can simply enjoy this in the comforts of your own room or even in a staycation in an artsy boutique hotel. Sometimes, all it takes is just some intimacy and the willingness to spend time with each other to really connect, especially in this stage where you are already familiar with each other, flaws and all. Besides, who says you have to go somewhere fancy just to have a memorable date?
4. First anniversary
With dating being an “instant” thing nowadays, reaching that first-year mark can be tough to pull off, so simply reaching this milestone with your boyfriend is definitely a cause for celebration. Start another year of your relationship by making lots of new memories you’ll cherish for the years to come.
The ideal date: What better way to celebrate your anniversary by going on an adventure? Traveling lets you create new memories and even strengthens your relationship. As they say, a couple who travels together, stays together. It puts both of you out of your comfort zones, therefore exposing you to fresh scenarios. Maybe your boyfriend, who is afraid of heights, may actually like hiking because of the amazing view when you reach the top, or you’ll have a newfound love for cliff diving now that you can utter your favorite line in Titanic, “You jump, I jump, remember?” with him. Whatever adventure you go for, those new memories will definitely come in handy for the next 365 days.
5. Marriage
Who says that married couples can’t have fun? It’s a common misconception that once you’re hitched, you’re doomed for life. On the contrary, couples who have tied the knot have way more freedom to do the things they want. The only thing they have to worry about is having enough time for them all.
The ideal date: Spice up your relationship by treating yourselves to a staycation and spa weekend. Check in for an overnight stay in a posh 5-star hotel and try out its facilities like the elegant swimming pool and the fine dining restaurant. Dress up for the romantic dinner and talk about the best years of your marriage. Before heading back to your room, indulge yourselves in a soothing massage for the ultimate relaxation. After all the hours spent in the office and taking care of the kids—you both know that you deserve this.
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