How To Be Romantic With Your Husband

Or your wife or even yourself

Jan 26

Romanticism: “a movement in the arts and literature that originated in the late 18th century, emphasizing inspiration, subjectivity, and the primacy of the individual.”

Good evening, girlfriends.

I’ve been watching a lot of Sex And The City lately, which means two things:

My optimism for making a living writing one column a week is STRONG.
Spicing up my relationship seems like a must-do, not a nice-to-do.

Because I’ve had love on the brain (Rihanna? A new song would be nice?), I thought I would give you some ideas on how to UP! the romance in your life.

Important side note: Being romantic with your partner doesn’t have to fall to the wayside just because we are married or have kids or demanding jobs or what have you. We can make it a lifestyle instead of a one-off sentiment we think about on Valentine’s Day, which, frankly, we have Carrie to thank for — from galavanting to New York jazz clubs to wine bars to cruise ships in pursuit of that New York romance we all secretly want — all in glittery outfits.

13 Ways To Be Romantic With Your Partner

Have a “my fantasy life” conversation: It’s fun to dream about your ideal house, wardrobe, vacation, etc., so why not dream out loud with each other on what you want out of life? Dig deep and talk about specific places and things you want to experience together.
Take a shower together: Obviously, being naked together is fun. It doesn’t have to lead to sex (although why not), but showering together is a really relaxing, intimate way of bonding with your partner.
Go on a morning date: I am a huge fan of the morning date (and mornings in general). Get coffee and/or mimosas at a cute bistro instead of the tiring dinner date scene.
Play 1950s’ Housewife: Put on your apron (and only your apron) with a pair of heels while baking cookies and act like it is just another Tuesday.
Cook them their favorite meal: Equipped with mood music, candles, and you in your LBD.
Order them their favorite meal: If cooking isn’t your thing, give the corner Chinese spot a ring and have it hot and ready when they get home.
Write them a funny love poem: And stick it in their briefcase or pocket when they aren’t looking. The more obscene the better.
Give each other massages: Not just any massage, and definitely not while you’re doing something unromantic, like watching Ozark. Give each other the full spa day effect *in the bedroom*— dim lighting, good smelling lotion, hot towel, burning candle, etc.
Give them specific compliments: And make it a habit. Don’t just say “I love when you wear those tight jeans!” once and then forget about it. Really get detailed.
Sign up the both of you to volunteer at a shelter for an afternoon: I stole this one from Cosmo, so I can’t take credit. If you’re thinking, “I don’t have time for this…” “The kids have sports…” yada yada, stop that thinking right now and just do it. Figure out the details later. Because if we aren’t volunteering to play with dogs on snowy Saturdays, what are we even doing with our lives?
HOLD HANDS while going for a walk: Remember when holding hands was thrilling? Back in 6th grade or whenever that was? Go for a stroll in the park or in your neighborhood and hold hands. There’s something about handholding that signifies unity and “there for each other” vibes.
Make them a playlist of their favorite songs: I am really dying for Jake to do this for me, so I hope he’s reading. Is there nothing better than having your favorite songs at the ready, no matter where you are? While I desperately miss the days of mixed CDs, I guess Spotify will have to suffice.
Go to a jewelry shop together: If only just to look, who cares. The point is to go somewhere fancy and point out your wishlist diamonds and watches just for the fun of it. Put on your vintage overcoats and elbow gloves to pretend you’re living in olden times.

Takeaway

Don’t take your relationship so seriously. Laughing and having fun is the point of life, and once upon a time, it was the point of your relationship. Case in point: Less nagging, more nude pics.

Also, and this is important, understand that by you doing these things for them, you are giving them ideas to wine and dine you. Treat romanticism as your new way of life and see where it gets you. If nothing else, it’s a fun experiment.

I have just one sign-off question…

Do you like Sex And The City’s reboot, And Just Like That…? Hit reply with a yes or no!!!

Keep being you. A more romantic you.

Xo, Ash

Sip Sip