Photo: Rebecca Gosselin Photography
Amidst all of the wedding planning, it's easy to lose that spark in your relationship — but there are a few sweet and simple ways to reignite it. Follow these tips, and we promise you'll fall head over heels all over again.
Check in with Each Other
And be sure to do it on a regular basis! "Start by telling each other what you're doing that you like," suggests NY-based psychologist Karen Sherman, Ph.D. "This will help to give each other positive feedback. Then talk about what could use improvement, not what's wrong," she proposes. Not only is this face-saving, but it also allows for issues not to fester.
Develop a Ritual
It should be something that you both look forward to and find as a comforting way to remember that you are a couple, recommends marriage and family therapist Sally Connolly. "For example, light a candle and fix a cup of tea every night as you settle in for the evening or take a walk once around the block and talk about your day each night after dinner."
Stay Curious
Couple's therapist Janet Zinn's number one recommendation for keeping the romance alive in your relationship? Stay curious. "Rather than coming to conclusions about what your partner meant, ask questions. For instance, if your partner comes home and says, 'I had a hard day.' Rather than saying 'Me, too,' ask. 'What happened?'" she advises. "Having interest in your partner communicates that he or she matters, and when we feel we matter we're more open and loving."
See More: 3 Simple Ways to Boost Happiness in Your Relationship
Make Him Feel Special
Do at least one thing a day (or week at the very least!) that makes your partner feel special. "This can be bringing them coffee, leaving a 'go get 'em' sticky note on their steering wheel the day of a big meeting, getting up with the dog even though it's their turn or whatever," says marriage consultant and coach Lesli M. W. Doares, LMFT.
Surround Yourself with Constant Reminders
According to certified dating and relationship expert Jason Weberman, CPCC, a very simple way to keep the love alive is to have constant reminders of that love. "Make sure you have memorable pictures of fun and exciting times together, and every once in a while look through the photo album with your significant other," he advises. "Love is a living thing. In order to keep it alive you must constantly breathe life into it as a couple and work together to keep the relationship going strong."
Show Your Appreciation
Express your appreciation on a daily basis by physical touch or saying, 'I appreciate when you...'" offers certified relationship coach Tiffany Mason, owner of Mason Coaching and Consulting. A great time to do this? At the dinner table before you eat each night.