My At-Home Date Night Scrapbook

Guiding Light

There are a few key elements to setting a romantic tone at home. Lighting is a biggie. When I talked to the team at Shabby Chic Couture in Santa Monica, I discovered these fabulous lanterns, which could be set in the bedroom to create some passionate (and body flattering) ambiance.

LEARN MORE: Shabby Chic Couture

Baby Bloomer

Fresh flowers are an easy and fairly inexpensive way to dress up the table for a date night dinner. I like picking up a bouquet from the grocery store when I do my food shopping — there's always something pretty at a good price.

Drink Up

A nice carafe of vino is another necessity for setting the tone of the night. (And since no one's driving, you can indulge as much as you please.) Don't forget to pour yourself a glass (or two!) while you cook — that's likely the biggest upside of making the meal yourself.

SHOP NOW: Cost Plus World Market Decanter and Tumblers Set, $20

Listen In

No romantic vibe is complete without some tunes. You may not want to get all Marvin Gaye-heavy with your playlist, because that can kind of force the issue. Instead, try for music that's mildly romantic (think Jack Johnson), which will set the right mood without the pressure to live up to those "it's date night!" expectations.

SHOP NOW: Bang and Olufsen sound systems, prices vary

Morning, Sunshine!

You can also hold a "date night" in the morning by cooking up a brunch for two. Getting creative with timing and themes for your at-home affairs will keep these special times with your guy feeling like treats, not chores.

Hit the Deck

No worries if you get stumped while trying to think of original date night ideas. This pack of cards by TableTopics will no doubt inspire your inventiveness. Read through the suggestions with your partner or try picking one at random, if you're feeling spontaneous.

SHOP NOW: TableTopics Date Night Idea Cards, $20

Soak It Up

Just as you would for a night on the town, set the date night mood for yourself by indulging in nice long soak. After all, having an evening with your guy is also an opportunity for you to relieve the stress from your workday, your kids and all the items still needing attention on your to-do list.

All Dressed Up

Believe me, I know how tempting it is to wear sweatpants when having date night at home. And I've definitely done it. But you'd be surprised how much your guy will appreciate the sight of you in even a simple wrap dress, like this one. Plus, aside from how pretty you'll look, feeling elegant will help set the night's romantic tone for you.

SHOP NOW: Afar Two Way Dress, $213

Fancy That

If a dress isn't your style, wearing a pretty top with a pair of jeans will mark the night as special and non-routine.

SHOP NOW: Old Navy novelty tees, $10-18

Lip Primp

If you don't want to put a whole face of makeup on, a light lipstick or gloss will give you a perfectly kissable pout.

SHOP NOW: Chanel Glossimer, $28.50

On the Money

Just because you're on a budget, doesn't mean you have to always do date night at home. I use Groupon's smartphone app to find deals on dinner and entertaining options for me and my guy. Plus, you can often find discounts on everything from haircuts to dry cleaning, helping you cut back without giving up your lifestyle.

SHOP NOW: Groupon Mobile Apps

Sweet Nothings

The idea of date night is to help you and your man reconnect as a couple but you don't necessarily have to go on a date to accomplish that. There are a number of ways to make your partner feel special. I love this cute pillow that has a secret pouch — perfect for hiding a little love note or gift.

SHOP NOW: Pillow Talk Pillow, $30

Now It's Your Turn!

I used my Glo Scrapbook to share my tips for an at-home date night, what will you use yours for?

START YOUR SCRAPBOOK NOW