Valentine’s Day isn’t the only day for romance, and February isn’t the only romantic month on the calendar. Check your relationship’s pulse during Romance Awareness Month in August. If it needs a jump start, there are lots of ways to put some spark back into the relationship.
Add excitement by planning the unexpected. Surprise your significant other with a date night with only a few clues as to the destination. None of it needs to be expensive or elaborate, but trying to make the evening fun, spontaneous and memorable will be worthwhile. Maybe it’s a note clipped to a single flower saying you’ll pick her up at 7 PM and to wear sandals. It ends up with a picnic on the beach; or it could be a text to him that you’re in the mood for takeout, be ready in an hour—a three-hour road trip later and you’re at the nearest drive-in theater eating hot wings under the stars.
The simple things mean so much more than elaborate gifts. A wrapped mint slipped into a pocket with an encouraging message on the day of a big presentation sends waves of support and love when it’s needed most. Sharing our successes with those we love is another way of enhancing the romance. Toast each other’s success and bask in the glow.
Consider one of the “adventure guides” or activity books for couples, such as The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition. These can provide some starting points for a romantic outing, without breaking the bank. Check the Resources below for suggestions.
Resources:
Under The ‘Gaydar’: 10 Best Gaycation Destinations That Might Surprise You. https://magazine.trivago.com/lgbtq-cities/
Your Guide to the Best LGBTQ+-Friendly Weekend in Washington, DC: https://washington.org/visit-dc/lgbtq-weekend-itinerary-things-to-do-washington-dc
10 Romantic Getaways for Lesbian Couples: https://www.littlegaybook.com/10-romantic-getaways-for-lesbian-couples/
LGBTQ Welcoming Hotels in Washington & MD: https://www.orbitz.com/Washington-Hotels-Gay-Friendly-Hotels.0-0-d178318-tGayFriendlyHotels.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels
Best romantic gay restaurants in Washington, DC: https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=romantic+gay+restaurants&find_loc=Washington%2C+DC
Romance Novels below to browse and peruse for your pleasure: https://www.buzzfeed.com/shylawatson/pride-lgbtq-romance-novel-roundup
The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B087Q6NV9V
The Couple's Activity Book: 70 Interactive Games to Strengthen Your Relationship: https://www.amazon.com/Couples-Activity-Book-Interactive-Relationship/dp/1646119916
Activity Book for LGBT Couples: Fun activity ideas, quizzes and fill in the blank fun for couples: https://www.amazon.com/Activity-Book-LGBT-Couples-activity/dp/B089CWRNB9
Our Bucket List: LGBT Relationship Journal & Gay Couples Workbook Perfect Adventure Challenge Book For LGBT Couple: https://www.amazon.com/Our-Bucket-List-Relationship-Adventure/dp/B08GLKD8DJ
Bucket List for LGBT Couples: Fun Ideas To Do Together: https://www.amazon.com/Bucket-List-LGBT-Couples-Together/dp/B08ZBJFMVL
Love More, Fight Less: Communication Skills Every Couple Needs: A Relationship Workbook for Couples: https://www.amazon.com/Love-More-Fight-Less-Communication/dp/0593196651
Male Couple's Guide: Finding a Man, Making a Home, Building a Life: https://www.amazon.com/Male-Couples-Guide-Finding-Building/dp/006095275X
Lesbian Couples: A Guide to Creating Healthy Relationships: https://www.amazon.com/Lesbian-Couples-D-Merilee-Clunis/dp/1580051316