Cover (Photo: Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash)
(Photo: Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash)
1 / 1
Romantic gestures don't always have to be grand. Here are some easy steps that will make your partner fall head over heels with you
Building a long-lasting relationship isn't an easy task: it requires patience, trust, and sometimes, small gestures that speak a thousand words. Amid COVID-19 lockdowns, there are partners who have found themselves struggling with repetitive hobbies that don't have the same appeal as the activities they used to do pre-pandemic. If you and your S.O. happen to be in the same situation, don't fret, we list down a few simple ways to spice up your relationship.
In case you missed it: 5 Best Books For The Hopeless Romantic: Ravished, The Rosie Project And More
1. Learn your partner's love language
Above (Photo: Anastasia Sklyar/Unsplash)
(Photo: Anastasia Sklyar/Unsplash)
1 / 1
If you want to know how your partner wants to be loved, learn his or her love language. According to Gary Chapman’s 1992 book The Five Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate, there are five languages or ways of receiving love: words of affirmation, quality time, acts of service, receiving gifts, and touch.
People whose love language is 'words of affirmation' tend to appreciate letters and frequent talks. Those who have 'quality time enjoy hanging around with their partners.
Those who have 'acts of service' love doing big and small favours for their romantic counterparts; Partners who have 'receiving gifts' are glad to provide material things from time to time. Lastly, people whose love language is 'touch' appreciate hugs, snuggles, and hand-holding.
Related: 5 Love Languages For Couples: How To Show Appreciation The Right Way
2. Your presence matters
Above Spice up your relationship with these easy steps (Photo: Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash)
Spice up your relationship with these easy steps (Photo: Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash)
1 / 1
The reason why you hear this tip a lot is because it is true; in most relationships, nothing else matters more than being present. Your partner had a bad day? Invite him or her to a movie night, or a coffee date. Your partner needs someone to talk to? Send him or her a message.
3. Small gifts count
Above (Photo: Rob Laughter/Unsplash)
(Photo: Rob Laughter/Unsplash)
1 / 1
Even if your partner's love language is not 'receiving gifts,' take the time to leave small presents for him or her. Small gifts can be from a souvenir from your most recent vacation, a chocolate bar you got from your grocery trip, or a custom-made scarf with your partner's initials embroidered on top.
More from Tatler: Tatler Gift Guide: 10 Luxury Timepieces Fit for Your Loved Ones
4. Hand-written letters are not old school
Above (Photo: Rob Laughter/Unsplash)
(Photo: Rob Laughter/Unsplash)
1 / 1
In a fast-paced world where emails and instant messages exist, taking the time to pen a hand-written letter will make your other half feel extra special.
You can be more creative by picking multi-coloured stationary pads and envelopes. To add more depth, you can paste or insert photos of you and your partner.
5. Make a playlist for each other
Above (Photo: Namroud Gorguis/Unsplash)
(Photo: Namroud Gorguis/Unsplash)
1 / 1
You and your significant other can listen to songs that remind you of each other. Start with Spotify Blends. Here, you can invite your partner and the music app will generate a playlist with both of your favourite tunes together. You can also order a customised mixtape online.
Topics
Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
