Sip, Savor, and Connect: 5 Tips for Creating the Perfect At-Home Date Night
This post was written by me as a paid partner of Rodney Strong. However, all opinions are 100% my own. Please drink responsibly.
My husband and I are celebrating 16 years of marriage tomorrow, and one of the things I love that we’ve prioritized over the years is date night. Whether it’s a night out on the town or a cozy evening in, making time for each other has been key to keeping our connection strong. And let’s be honest—sometimes, an at-home date night is exactly what you need, especially when life gets busy with parenting and more.
Recently, I teamed up with Rodney Strong to elevate our latest date night with their amazing Sauvignon Blanc, and let me tell you—it is amazing! From the perfect pairing with our dinner and dessert to the simple joys of uninterrupted conversation, this night reminded me why at-home dates are special. If you’re looking to create your own romantic evening in, here are some easy yet impactful ways to make it special.
1. Use the Good China (Just Because!)
We often save our best dinnerware for holidays and special occasions, but why wait? Set the scene by bringing out the good plates, lighting some candles, and playing R&B to transform your dining room into an intimate restaurant. The ambiance makes a huge difference, and you deserve to enjoy a beautiful setting anytime, not just on special occasions.
2. Cook or Order In—Either Works!
Cooking together can be fun, but if your schedule is packed, ordering from a local restaurant is just as thoughtful. For our date night, I opted to order in, which saved me time and energy. The goal is to enjoy each other’s company, so do whatever makes that easiest. Pairing our meal with the Sauvignon Blanc from Rodney Strong made it even more enjoyable—it was crisp, refreshing, and complemented our dinner perfectly.
3. Indulge in a Sweets Board
If you and your partner love dessert, consider putting together a sweets board. It’s an easy way to add variety, and if you don’t finish it all, your kids (if you have them) will love enjoying the leftovers. Think chocolates, strawberries, cookies, and more. Trust me, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc alongside a few bites of chocolate? Chef’s kiss!
4. Put the Phones Away and Truly Connect
It’s easy to get caught up scrolling, even during date night. Make a rule to put the phones away and focus on each other. We used couples’ conversation cards, which led us down memory lane, sparked deep discussions, and had us laughing non-stop. Whether you use cards, reminisce about your first date, or dream up future travel plans, prioritizing uninterrupted conversation makes all the difference.
5. Choose the Right Wine
No date night is complete without a good bottle of wine. Rodney Strong has an incredible selection, and their Sauvignon Blanc was a standout for us. It’s light, crisp, and versatile—perfect for enjoying year-round. As we head into spring, I know it’s a wine I’ll continue reaching for. Whether you’re enjoying a seafood dish, a creamy pasta, or a simple charcuterie board, this wine is a perfect match.
A great date night doesn’t have to involve fancy reservations or elaborate plans. Sometimes, the best moments happen right at home with good food, great wine, and even better company. So, set the table, dim the lights, and make time for the one you love. And when it comes to picking the perfect wine for the evening, Rodney Strong has you covered.
Here’s to love, laughter, and many more memorable date nights ahead!
Keep glowing,
Shalyce