Three Dates to Take Yourself On

Okay ladies. Valentine’s Day is in two days. Last week, I shared a fun gift idea that was more of a memory/experience and perfect for everyone from your boo to your galentine. Today, I’m talking about the perfect way to celebrate your love for YOU. And it comes in the form of a little me time. Seriously, it doesn’t get any better than a little time for Y-O-U #amiright? Whether you’re planning to spend the 14th solo or just need some ideas for new ways to celebrate one of the most important women in your life (if it isn’t clear by now, that would be you), you will love these date night ideas. The kicker: these are dates you’re going to be taking yourself on. Yay!

After chatting with a few girlfriends recently, it came to my attention that most women don’t like to go out by themselves. I, however, am the girl who will go to the movies by herself, plan a lunch date solo, head on a vacation or to a bar by myself, etc. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to cherish the time I can spend alone doing things I love. As much as I will always love sitting at home on the couch with sweats and a glass of wine, sometimes it’s fun to get dolled up and take yourself on a little date to enjoy that glass of wine at your favorite lounge or restaurant. And guess what ladies, you don’t need a man (or a friend) to make that experience enjoyable.

When I took my solo trip to Jamaica last year, I had the best time going to dinner or grabbing a cocktail amongst strangers. Sometimes I would spark up a conversation and sometimes I would just sit back and enjoy the time alone. It challenged me to be OK with being alone and not feel lonely which is no easy task. After that trip, I decided to take myself on more dates and just enjoy some extra me time more often.

Three Dates to Take Yourself On

• Fancy Cocktails: This actually might be my favorite date. It’s the one that will probably push you out of your comfort zone the most. Here’s what you do. Put on your cutest outfit and don’t be afraid to get a little glam i.e. a sequin skirt is perfect. Head to your favorite lounge or bar (you can’t go wrong with a nice hotel lobby bar situation). Sit down at the bar, order a drink and just sip. Strike up a convo with the stranger next to you (be safe, obviously) or don’t. It’s up to you. But be OK with sitting solo and looking fierce. I did this very thing before linking up with Brandon last week and in the spirit of being a total badass, I even tried a new cocktail. I may or may not be obsessed with an Old Fashioned now.
• Take Yourself to Dinner. If I’m being honest, Italian dinners are the best. Dress up or dress down, totally up to you. Make yourself a reservation and go to town on ordering all of your favorite things. I’m talking appetizer, salad, entree and dessert. You might as well get a bottle of wine while you’re at it. Don’t rush through the meal. Sit back and just enjoy the quiet. If a dinner out isn’t your thing, start with a simple brunch or lunch during the day to ease your way into a date night.
• Go to the Movies. I love love love going to the movies. B and I go at least once a week but sometimes I just really love going solo. When I want a good chick flick, I pick a movie, buy my tickets and stock up on candy before I go. I order the biggest popcorn I can get my hands on and it is the best date ever. I prefer to do during the day or on the weekends (matinee prices are no joke).

Honestly, when it comes to a good date night, your options are endless. These are easy starters but you could also head to a museum or art show, try a new activity in your city or go to the park and just make yourself a little picnic. Enjoy the quality time with YOU and build up that love just like you would with your boo. I’ll leave you with this: it’s okay to be selfish every now and then and there is nothing wrong with celebrating your badassness!

Photos by Shelby Gordon