DIY date night: how to keep the romance alive from home

Spending all day, everyday with your partner can be tricky at times, but don't let lockdown get in the way of romance.

Create your own night out without leaving the house with these simple tips...

1) Set the scene

Missing being wined and dined at your favourite restaurant? Recreate it at home.

Rather than eating in front of the telly, make the most of your dining table and dress it up like you would for a special occasion. Throw over a table cloth to create a separate eating zone, then lay out your best china and glasses.

Candles and flowers will up the romance factor in an instant, but if you don’t have those to hand, simply try moving a pot plant or a succulent from another room to create a calm vibe.

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2) Raise a toast

If drinks in a bar are more your thing, why not have cocktail hour once a week with your other half? Even the simplest of drinks will feel fancy in a champagne glass, and don’t forget the fruity garnish on the rim!

Softer lighting will create an intimate feel indoors, or set up your table and chairs in the garden to have a totally separate space to where you eat, for al fresco drinks. Cocktail shakers at the ready!

3) Dress yourself up

It’s probably been weeks since you wore your favourite pair of heels or a fancy frock. We love pyjamas and loungewear, but there’s nothing better than getting dolled up – and the fact you don’t have to walk further than downstairs in your stilettos is a bit of a bonus!

Dig out your old fail-safe LBD, or take notes from Vicky Pattison and give your favourite midi sun dress a glam new spin with a pair of heels and pretty accessories.

4) Get glam

Never underestimate the effect of a bright and bold lipstick. A slick of hot pink or red over your pout will instantly take you from daytime to playtime – so dig out your old faithful shade for the night.

You don’t need to go heavy with your make-up, either. If you’ve been rocking a bare face or minimal products recently, simply stick to lips and a couple of coats of volumising mascara. Whatever you go for, make sure you finish with a spritz of perfume – pick one that reminds you of happy times and your mood will be lifted after a busy day WFH.

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Make date night perfect:

l Switch off the TV and leave your phones in another room. Take time to talk and give each other plenty of attention.

l Create a playlist of all your favourite songs and music that brings back fond memories to play in the background. Sites like Spotify make it super easy and you can keep adding tracks and listening again in future.

Cook something new! Give the usual spaghetti Bolognese a miss and try something a little fancier. You could even take on a course each as a bit of a foodie challenge!