Check 5 Boxes for the Perfect Valentine’s Date!
Planning a romantic date is more of an art than a science. But there are a few basic rules you can follow (and an acronym to remember: T.R.A.D.E.) to make sure you cover your bases. Just check these five boxes to produce a memorable night that’s tough to beat.
There are five boxes you need to check when planning a perfect date…Valentine’s Day included. And of course, there’s an old acronym to help you remember them: “T.R.A.D.E.” (Topic, Romance, Activity, Dessert, Exchange). That’s not necessarily the order but it spells out the essential elements and it’s easy to remember.
Here’s a definition of each term in an order that looks a bit more like a date:
- Romance: It’s all in the details. Light a candle, put on some music, and run a comb through your hair! Romance is about ambience. Show you care by setting a mood and simply lighting a candle is a great start.
- Activity: Something you do together. Stay close and share a moment. You should be able to talk and engage while you do this activity. Doing something together takes the pressure off and allows you and your date to enjoy the natural facilitation an activity provides.
- Exchange: A gift is more symbolic than anything but it shows forethought and planning (which also happens to be romantic). Having a gift on hand shows that you put time into creating this experience and prepared in advance.
- Topic: A topic is the kindling for conversational flow — and a good conversation is what makes a good date great. If you don’t know what to talk about, use your activity as a starting place. What are your memories associated with this activity? What ideas does it inspire?
- Dessert: It’s not a date without dessert, it’s just dinner. Dessert shows that you’re in no rush to leave and allows you to savor your time together for a few more sweet moments. It leaves a delicious taste in both of your mouths… literally and metaphorically. :)
Use the old T.R.A.D.E. method for date planning and you’ll be sure to please your partner. If you’re still feeling blocked, buy a box of “Smalls Smores” and check all five boxes at once. It’s the gift, the activity, the topic, the dessert, and the candle lit romance. A complete date in a box!
As a bonus, scratch out a quick card and you’re gold! Want help with that too? Try writing this:
“Roses are red and Violets are blue, but they’re too predictable for someone like you.
Enjoy the s’more bites!
xo,
[Your name here]”
Use code VDAYTRADE for free shipping and order before February 8th to make sure your Smalls Smores arrive in time for Valentine’s Day.
