Relationship Advice

Do loving compliments roll off your tongue with natural ease? Can you whip up a gourmet meal for two that leaves you fed, not fed up? If not, read on to discover ten great (and simple) tips that will have you charming your loved one in no time.

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1.    Listen up
Communication is key to romance. Your idea of a romantic night might be your partner’s idea of hell, so it’s essential to pick up on cues. If your date mentions an actor she loves, treat her to a cozy night in with a DVD. You can even whip up a delicious home cooked meal – she’ll appreciate the attention to detail more than a grand gesture. And ladies, this rule is reciprocal!  

2. Make time for romance
We all have busy lives, which means romance often takes a back seat. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you don’t have time for romance – small gestures like calling or texting during the day, or moving a work meeting to make time for lunch together is all it takes to show your loved one how important they are to you.

3. Spontaneity is the spice of (love) life
Routine is the enemy of an exciting love life. Plan a surprise weekend away, or get up early on a Sunday morning to buy croissants from the local bakery for a delicious breakfast in bed. You can also offer to change the sheets once they’re covered in crumbs!

4. Get giggly with it
Laughter brings people closer together. If you’re unsure of your own comedy skills, go on a date to a comedy club or watch a funny film together.

5. A small price to pay for love
They say the best things in life are free, and this is certainly true when it comes to love. Yes it’s nice to go out for a flashy meal together, but it’s also great to go for a walk hand-in-hand on the beach, or to hide a love note in your partner’s wallet or purse so they’ll find it when they least expect.

6. Compliment each other
Receiving a genuine compliment can make your day, and the best part is it doesn’t cost a thing. And we’re not talking cringe-worthy one-liners like ‘heaven must be missing an angel’. Something simple and from the heart is all that’s required.

7. Know the boundaries
We’re not saying hold your date at arm’s length; just don’t suffocate them with romance. Call when you say you will and send flowers once in a while. But there’s no need to leave 20 voicemails or cover their house in rose petals – unless they’re a fan of pot-pourri! You each need to have your own lives, and absence really does make the heart grow fonder.

8. Set the scene
Whatever romantic situation you’re trying to create, the devil is in the detail. If you’re preparing a romantic dinner try adding flowers and candles to ramp up the romance. And make sure you know your partner’s likes and dislikes; nothing kills romance like a seafood allergy and a trip to the emergency room.

9. Practice makes perfect
If you arrange what you think is a wonderfully romantic evening and your date is unimpressed, chalk it up to experience and move on. Don’t let this stop you doing new things, but use it as an opportunity to communicate and find out your partner’s idea of a “perfect date”.

10. Keep the romance alive
Romance in a long term relationship should never end. It might wane sometimes and you may need to put in the extra effort to keep it alive, but try not to view it as a chore but rather a great reason to spend quality time together.

A Beginner’s Guide to Romance: Online Dating, 8.5 out of 10 based on 13 ratings Print Email