CRUSHES

While you can never go wrong with a classic dinner and a movie date, sometimes you're craving a little more out of your time with your boo. We've got nine (!!) suggestions for creative ways to spend QT with your S.O., grow your relationship and have a little more fun. 

1. Create candles

Post-spring cleaning sesh, there's no better feeling than lighting a new candle and enjoying your fresh space. Head to a candle-making shop with bae for a day of bonding while crafting your own unique creations. And if you're looking for a date night in, simply grab some Mason jars and a candle-making kit and melt your own sticks from the comfort of your kitchen.

2. Thrift store challenge 

Hey Alexa, play "Thrift Shop" by Macklemore. The thrift store challenge is a simple and guaranteed way to make you and your partner laugh. Just head to your local Goodwill or fave trendy thrift store and pick out an outfit for the other person. You can take this seriously or try to pick the most extra and out-there fits yet! Bonus: Go out to dinner wearing the outfits you choose. 

3. Make pottery

@atelierbyahreema

Who doesn't want to recreate that romantic pottery scene in every rom-com? But we get it: Investing in a pottery wheel might not be your vibe. Still, air-dry clay is available on Amazon and in craft stores. Make a clay version of your S.O. or a sculpt miniature recreation of their pet.

4. Volunteer at the animal shelter

If you and your S.O. *love* animals, you should visit the animal shelter. They are always looking for happy and enthusiastic volunteers. (FYI: You might have to complete a training program first.) You can help bathe, play or walk the animals. What's a better way to spend your Saturday? 

5. Do your own Vogue 73 Questions 

The Vogue 73 Questions videos have taken over the internet. The set-up is simple: The cameraman follows a celeb around their home, asking rapid-fire Q's from "What's your go-to breakfast?" to "What's something you regret?" Try doing the same thing with bae! It'll be a fun way to get to know them better, and you'll have a hilarious vid to look back on later. 

6. Host a cook-off with another couple

Wanting to have a double date with your BFF and her other half? You should host a cook-off competition where you each make the same meal. Think: chicken parmesan, homemade pizza or *extra* chocolate chip cookies. Then, designate a judge to choose the winner!

7. Have a painting swap

A painting swap is an adorable way to unleash your creative side with your special someone. Set a timer for five minutes, then paint away on your respective canvases. After the alarm, switch paintings and continue! When the date's over, you'll both have a piece of artwork that the two of you contributed to!

8. Visit the zoo

Spoiler alert: The zoo is still fun even when you grow up! Find the location of the closest zoo (maybe you could take a short road trip) and make a list of *all* the exhibits you must see. Have fun walking around the beautiful scenery, making funny faces at the animals and taking super cute couples pics (pls tag us)!

9. Have a board game night

Are you and your bae competitive? If so, you should have a board game night (Life & Monopoly & Clue, oh my!). This is a perfect and inexpensive date idea you can do from home. Bonus: Make sure you have all of your fave snacks (and yes, candy counts).

Have other dating questions? Check out these articles:
💝 Your guide to creating the ultimate long-distance relationship playlist
💝 5 red flags to look out for when you're catching feelings
💝 How to keep the text convo going with your crush

We want to see you and your S.O. on these unique dates! Tag us in *all* the Instagram pics @girlslifemag.  

Slider image: @nataliezacek
All GIFs via Giphy

by Maddy Phillips and Julia Szymanski | 11/18/2024