Easy Ways to Turn Any Evening Romantic

If you don't have the time, money or energy to plan and execute the perfect date, you're not alone. The good news is you can set up a romantic evening in just a few minutes and without any cost. Use these easy ideas to turn any evening at home into a romantic rendezvous.

1. Location? Pick a spot outside like the hammock, lawn furniture or simply throw a blanket down. The stars make great romantic scenery. If you're staying in, pick a room you don't normally spend a lot of time in. It will help keep your minds off daily routines. Throwing pillows and blankets on the floor in front of the fireplace is very romantic. If you have children, put away any toys, bottles and clothing they may have left in the room so you're not thinking of them during your romantic evening.

2. Lighting? Romance is about atmosphere, bright lights at night won't do. Turn the lights down. If you can't turn them down, you may want to unscrew a bulb or two to create a soft look in the room. You can light some candles. One or one hundred, it's up to you. Always take care when burning candles, don't leave unattended and don't burn them under curtains or other flammable items. Hanging a string of white lights somewhere in the room will create the feeling of warmth and passion. A sting of white lights will also look very romantic outside in a tree, on a porch or railing. If your location is outside, you can light torches and citronella candles to keep the bugs away.

3. Music? Being in a good mood is key to pulling off a romantic evening and nothing can change your mood as quickly as music. Turn on the radio. Play music that makes you feel good and upbeat. It doesn't have to be boring elevator music, in fact that could make you and your partner drowsy. If you don't want commercial interruptions you can play your favorite CD's or tapes.

4. Edibles? Grab a nice looking dish and raid the cupboards. The typical romantic snack foods are: cheese, crackers, grapes, and strawberries. But if you don't have these items anything bite size will do such as peanuts, pretzels, cut vegetables, etc. Put any drinks in wine glasses. Wine, beer, soda, fruit drinks and even water are more enticing when served in wine glasses.

5. Alone Time? This is time for just the two of you. No company, no distractions. Turn off cell phones and pagers; let the telephone answering machine get the calls. If you have kids, put them to bed before starting your date. Schedule this time like an important appointment. At least two hours should be set aside.

The evening doesn't have to be perfect. If something goes wrong, it doesn't have to be ruined. Be optimistic, go with the flow and continue. And when planning your next romantic rendezvous make a few minor changes for variety. Be creative and enjoy!

L.A. Hunter is the author of "Romeo's Playbook: A Man's Guide for Enhancing His Relationship and Sex Life." Along with being a romance consultant for other websites she is the founder of http://www.RomeosPlaybook.com, where men and women can get romantic tips, ideas and advice for their relationship. Free E-books offer.