At Larkspur Lodge, we know that the months leading up to your wedding can be a whirlwind of excitement, anticipation… and maybe just a teensy little bit of stress! While you’re busy choosing floral arrangements, planning your venue decor and tasting cake flavours, it’s important to remember the reason for all of this: you and your partner’s relationship.
That’s why we’ve compiled this list of wedding date ideas to help you and your partner connect, relax, and create memories during the exciting run-up to your big day. From romantic dates before your wedding to wedding preparation date ideas, we’ve got you covered!
What are romantic date ideas to enjoy as a couple before the wedding?
When you’re saving for a wedding, it’s easy to put dates on the backburner. But stealing precious moments for just the two of you is super important. Here’s some inspiration for romantic dates you can try before your wedding:
Escape to the countryside. Whilst you might associate trips or days out with expensive meals out and hotel rooms, this doesn’t have to be the case. Pack a picnic basket and head to a scenic spot like the Peak District or a local forest. Soak in the breathtaking views, fresh air and enjoy each other’s company, all whilst de-stressing and reconnecting with nature.
If you fancy something a bit more indulgent, treat yourselves to a couple’s spa day with massages, facials and relaxation therapies. As well as being a great way to unwind ahead of the big day, it’s also an ideal time to get any pre-wedding beauty treatments ticked off the list!
Recreate your first date. Relive the magic of when you first met by revisiting the same restaurant, or doing the same activity. Whether it’s mini golf, a local coffee shop or a trip to the beach, this will take you both on a trip down memory lane, where you can reminisce about how far you’ve come, and rekindle the spark that started your relationship.
Another budget-friendly way to spend some quality time together is with a cosy night in. Light some candles, cook your favourite meal together and watch a movie or play games together. Even better if you can switch off your phones and enjoy some time away from the distractions of wedding planning. After all, some of the most romantic dates are the most simple ones!

How can you create memorable experiences together in the months leading up to your wedding?
Your engagement is one of the most special chapters in your love story, so make the most of it with pre-wedding date activities that create lasting memories.
As a fun way to combine wedding preparations with date night, why not try a dance class? You could try a private session to learn some key steps for your first dance. From the classic waltz, to something more modern, taking a dance class is a fun and romantic date idea.
Or, if you and your partner’s thing is live music, why not treat yourself to tickets to your favourite band or artist? As well as being a fun night out, this is a great opportunity to get some inspiration for your wedding playlist.
To escape the chaos of wedding planning, you could plan a weekend getaway. With so many beautiful spots in the UK, this doesn’t necessarily mean you need to break the bank either. Try a staycation at the beach, or a one-night getaway at a nearby city to spend some quality time together in a different setting.
Are there activities that can help reduce stress and relax before the wedding day?
Though it’s a really exciting time, wedding planning can also feel stressful! Why not try a relaxing date to help you unwind?
A yoga class could help you find your inner peace and stretch away any wedding-related tension. Alternatively, taking a long walk at a local beauty spot is a great way to reconnect with nature, and the fresh air and exercise will do wonders for both your physical and mental-wellbeing ahead of the big day.
Want to try something a bit different? You could unleash your competitive side with a fun-filled game night. Either invite friends over, or keep it intimate with just the two of you. Having a laugh together is the best medicine for pre-wedding stress!
Can you provide budget-friendly date ideas for couples preparing for their wedding?
Having a date night doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to tap into your wedding budget. If you’re looking for budget friendly pre-wedding date activities, here are some of our favourites:
Keep things cosy and creative with a fun-filled evening in your own home. Don your aprons and try baking your favourite sweet treats in the kitchen, or cook a recipe you’ve always wanted to sample. Afterwards, you could enjoy a movie marathon on the sofa, complete with popcorn and comfy blankets. Or, if you’re feeling crafty, unleash your inner artist with a DIY project. Scrapbooking, painting and pottery are all great ways to unwind and connect with each other.
Low-key dates like these are a great way to enjoy each other’s company without distractions, or spending too much money.
What are unique date ideas that incorporate wedding planning or preparation?
Looking for wedding preparation date ideas? Combine date night with wedding planning for a fun and productive experience.
- Create Your Wedding Playlist Together: Spend an evening creating the perfect soundtrack for your wedding day. Choose songs that are meaningful to you as a couple and that will get your guests dancing.
- Design Your Wedding Stationery: Get creative and design your own wedding invitations, save-the-dates, or thank you cards. This is a great way to personalise your wedding and add a unique touch.
- Attend a Wedding Fair Together: Explore wedding fairs and gather inspiration for your big day. You might even find some amazing suppliers or discover new ideas you hadn’t considered before.
- Have a Cake Tasting Date: Find the perfect flavour for your wedding cake with a delicious cake tasting session.
No matter what kind of date you choose, the most important thing is to spend quality time together during the busy period of wedding planning. These wedding date ideas are just some of the things you could do in the lead up to your special day – just remember to have fun and make memories with your partner before you say “I do!”.