5 Secrets to Exciting Date Nights With Long-Term S.O.

Date night has been the saving grace of long-term relationships, yet some partners struggle to come up with inventive ideas that are both exciting and not expensive. Whether you're in a settled relationship or embarking on a new romance, it's important to mix levels of intimate surprises, seduction, adventure and fun without bankrupting yourselves each time. Here are five secrets to ensure your next date night will be an enjoyable occasion to remember.

1. Create an element of surprise - Don't let chance decide what happens on your next night out. Doing the same thing every weekend can quickly lead to boredom and monotony so why not set yourself a challenge to think of something unique that you've never done before together. It could be as simple as midnight ice-skating, a cornfield maze or spending a few hours at a vintage fairground – if you try something new and different, both of you will look forward to getting dressed up for the occasion rather than just enduring yet another session at the movie theater.

2. Reconnect with nature - Evenings spent outside can be far more romantic and intimate than those spent indoors. Pack a picnic basket with delicious foods and beverages and search out beautiful natural spaces like mountains, forests and lakesides which offer the best way to relax and appreciate the simpler things in life. Connect with the beauty of nature around you, rekindle conversation topics that have been left unaddressed and let surprise discoveries bring out hidden sources of pleasure only the two of you can enjoy in each other's company.

3. Go a bit nostalgic - Looking back at what's gone before on your couple journey allows you to reminisce about days gone by but also celebrate how far you've come together. Revisiting old haunts from previous dates can reignite memories good and bad (like when your now-partner spilled something all over themselves or professed their love during a sunset walk) which provides plenty of material for reflection and mirth over dinner. Later in the evening, take a stroll down memory lane, arms linked in hand, letting laughter echo through the night air.

4. Laugh your heart out - Laughter is vital in any successful relationship since it strengthens bonds between couples who have lots to smile about. Taking time out to visit improvisational comedy shows or stand-up gigs is sure to draw plenty of hilarity - it may even inspire spontaneous or even saucy role-play! Comedy also offers relief from everyday stresses and challenges so feel free to laugh until you cry; it's certainly one way of practicing mindfulness and mindful appreciation for how fortunate your both are to be together.

5. Delight in little luxuries - Whilst champagne and caviar may be dreams of luxury for most couples, it is sometimes the small thoughtfulness that counts. A simple night at home can be enlivened by ordering a special delivery of chocolates, exotic flowers or a handcrafted gift dedicated especially for them. Candles, bubble baths and a light dinner served with soulful music can create an intimate atmosphere ideal for sharing stories beneath the stars…without burning a hole in your pocket!

Creating memorable date nights with your S.O. becomes much easier once these secrets are put into practice, though they don't have to be strictly adhered to; just remember that whatever you decide should contribute towards strengthening your bond as a couple. With careful thought and planning, romance forever evolves and stretching your imagination to create something special will become second nature, bringing all the wonderment associated with falling love right back into the equation!