Contributed by Info Guru Jennifer Andrews

It can be hard to find the time to spend with a loved one, partner, and spouse that isn’t costly or time-consuming.

Date nights out on the time are fun and thrilling but nearly all activities come at a cost including a romantic dinner out, a trip to the movies or a night of dancing. However, you can avoid spending excessive money or sitting in traffic with several romantic ideas for home instead. It’s the little things that create romance and in the end as long as you are with someone special, romance can be had anywhere.

Consider the following top ten romantic ideas for home and incorporate them into your own relationship today.

10. Homemade dinner

Among the ultimate romantic ideas for home is the classic homemade meal prepared by a loved one. A homemade meal conjures up images of love, caring and respect for your partner since there is time, patience and thought required. Find out what your partner’s favorites foods and meals are ahead of time to whip up a dish of comfort such as spaghetti with homemade meatballs or steak with roasted asparagus and mashed potatoes.

9. Take-in

It is often said that the stomach is the way to a man’s heart. Although sharing a homemade meal is romantic, it may not be everybody’s forte. If you lack the skills or necessary time to prepare a meal in advance, consider ordering food in to share over candlelight and low lights. Skip McDonalds’ in favor of a classier take out joint that is special or new to you and a lover.

8. Movie night

Going out to the movies is a popular date-night activity for people of all ages worldwide. However, with rising costs of movie theatre tickets and food stands, it might be cheaper to stay in and watch a movie streaming to your television. Keep it romantic at home by selecting a movie that is light, romantic, and humorous and with a feel-good message.

7. Picnic

Picnics are often thought of as outdoor activities but you can take the picnic inside for a romantic afternoon or evening in as well. Instead of dining at the kitchen table, set up a blanket, lamps and light a few candles in your living space for an indoor picnic. Keep the food spread simple with cheese and crackers, finger sandwiches, fruit and, of course, a special bottle of wine. Send yourself a romantic gourmet gift basket and open — and enjoy — it together.

6. Hot tub

Hot-tub rendezvous’ have been made increasingly popular by reality shows such as The Bachelor. Skip the camera and plan a dip in the hot-tub for you and a love interest after a romantic dinner at home. A dark evening combined with wine and chemistry makes for instant romance.

5. Deep thoughts

Romantic ideas for home do not always have to involve actively doing something. Rather, spending an evening talking to each other is a great way to get to know a lover’s deepest thoughts, feelings and dreams. Consider curling up on the sofa or bed wrapped in a blanket and start asking each other questions to get to know each other better.

4. Dancing

Avoid hitting the night clubs or spending money on fancy salsa lessons and instead stay home for a romantic evening of dancing. Play your favorite tunes from the Oldies to modern-day music and start toe-tapping to the beat ending with a slow, romantic song to hold each other close.

3. Baking

Spending a day in the kitchen baking cookies is usually delegated to a kiddie activity. However, baking can actually be a romantic way to spend some time with a lover, partner or spouse. By working together as a team, including gathering ingredients, mixing, stirring and shaking, you help to increase communication skills and a feeling of unity with each other. Keep the romance alive by shaping cookies into hearts and clouds.

2. Photo-spread

Keep romance alive by taking out old photo albums and reliving great memories of your time together as youth, first dating or at special events. Work together to put piles of new pictures into new photo albums, categorizing them by year and event. Particularly memorable photos may include that of a wedding, birthday, anniversary or bringing a child into the world.

1. Massages

Skip the professional masseur and opt instead for a massage from your partner, fiancé or spouse at home. Have scented massage oil on hand for some beneficial aromatherapy. Have a pile of fluffy clean towels and candles. Massages increase the romance factor through the act of touch and giving another person time to relax and de-stress.