Spending Time, Not Money: Turn your bedroom into a romantic getaway!

In a perfect world, my husband and I are alone at a romantic resort, where we get couples massages, candlelight dinners al fresco, breakfast in bed, dancing under the stars, and lots of undisturbed nookie time.

Here’s the reality – two busy careers, two busy kids, too busy and broke for anything, let alone a romantic getaway.

What’s that quote about necessity being the mother of invention? Well, DH (darling husband!) and I came up with a fabulous solution to our time and money challenge for romance.

Yup, sometimes we plan these moments, and sometimes they are a gift from heaven (aka – both kids are at sleepovers!). Either way, here’s what we do to create a romantic oasis in our bedroom:

• cover up the TV with a beautiful scarf or shawl
• remove all electronic communication devices
• turn the lights down very low
• light several fragrant candles (LOVE JimmyJane’s massage oil candles)
• turn on our favorite romantic music (soft jazz)
• set out the warm massage oil and other romance enhancing products
• prepare sensual food and beverages – we’re not leaving for awhile!
• bring out our favorite bedtime stories and imaginations
• if you have kids, put them to bed or rent a really long movie
• lock the bedroom door and put a chair under the door handle (hey, I’m a Mother – I can imagine kids picking locks, ok?)

Now the ambiance is ready, preparing the room has us in the mood, and we haven’t touched the credit cards.

What would you add to create a budget-friendly romantic getaway? Please share – I’ll add your ideas to the list!