Hello Date Night!

After you get married, whether you have children or not, you should continue doing the things that drew you together in the first place.  Make that a priority.  I understand that 'life happens' but if you want your married life to continue on a happy course, if you want the fire of passion to keep burning, then you should try really hard to fit 'date night' into your schedule.  Scheduling date night will take joint effort, so it's not up to one partner to schedule it every time.  Take turns initiating and coming up with ideas of things to do and places to go with your sweetheart.  You did it while you were courting, so keep the romance going! Do it often!  

Here's a tip: Make date night REAL by putting it on both of your calendars.  You wouldn't cancel a doctor's appointment, or a business meeting unless it was a dire emergency...and if you had to cancel, you would probably set a new date right away.  Treat your date night with the same respect.  

Remember, it's the little things that count, meaning you don't have to dip into your savings to have a good time, and you don't have to do anything lavish.  Use your imagination to come up with something you'll both enjoy. Date night with your partner doesn't have to last all night, especially if you have young children, (we understand booking a sitter can be challenging) but try to schedule it for a few hours at a time. Check your local newspaper to find friendly events in your area. Make sure your surroundings are quiet enough for you and your sweetheart to have good conversation....flirt with each other...laugh at one another's jokes...for you to finish each other's sentences.  

Here's another tip: Coordinate with your partner to both leave work early so you can get your date started early.  Date night doesn't always have to be at night...it can be anytime of day you want it to be.  If nights are not convenient due to sitter or work issues, then have a 'date day' with your partner instead.  You both need a break from everyday life, from the bills, from the kids, from the job, so make time.  It's important.  

Try something new, like a new restaurant, or a new lounge, or drive further to check out a new theater. If your sitter cancels and you absolutely cannot leave the house, put the kids to bed early, sit on the porch together and count fireflies.  As long as you're together... #behappy

~Your Favorite Wedding Officiant ~
www.sweetheartweddingvows.com