Popping the question is nerve-wracking and super exciting at the same time. It’s all about love and commitment, but many think that sealing the deal means mega-watt sparkle. The “bling” is always the focus of Instagram pics, and friends and family can’t wait to see the “rock” radiating from that ring finger. But what if you don’t have tons of dough to get a ring that’s remarkable? The good news is you can buy a beautiful engagement ring without breaking the bank. After all, you’re about to get married, so you can’t start off “forever after” drowning in debt. If you’re watching your wallet and need to be conservative when it comes to choosing a ring, here are some tips to consider before shopping for your special someone. The ring will be gorgeous, you’ll still have money to spare, and your intended recipient will be wowed by your good taste in both jewelry and a mate!   Size Doesn’t Matter             We see celebs flashing their ginormous engagement rings on social media, and while some of them are amazing, others are rather ridiculous. Not only is a giant diamond uncomfortable and unrealistic for most, but it’s difficult to do basic things when the ring gets in the way of everyday tasks. Plus, just because a ring is huge doesn’t mean it’s special necessarily. The gem could be cloudy, and it may go out of style. A better idea is to find something more suitable for your special someone. Splurge on the clarity and cut of the diamond rather than the size. A bright and dazzling diamond – even a small one – is more impressive than a gaudy gem that’s pretentious. With a smaller ring, there’s room to grow. You can add bands for special anniversaries, as stacking is always in style. When you have more money, you can reset the diamond or go up a few carats. Not to mention, smaller rings show class and character. It’s not about the size, but the sentiment. When your proposal is on point, a blinding diamond isn’t even an afterthought.   Think Outside The (Ring) Box             You can do your own thing when it comes to choosing an engagement ring. The typical look is timeless, but your special someone is unique, and their ring should be too. Think about their taste in jewelry and overall appeal. You may not want to take the traditional route, and that means opening doors to finding a ring that’s less expensive, but even more meaningful. While “a diamond is forever,” other glam gems are wonderful alternatives, often far less expensive, but just as breathtaking. Consider an engagement ring featuring your partner’s birthstone or choose one that’s their favorite hue. Emeralds, sapphires, and rubies are rich and vibrant, and their ring will become a focal point on their finger. You may not even want a gem at all. A stylish band [...]

Being in a positive and successful relationship requires compassion, care, and lots of communication. It’s a mix of emotional and physical intimacy that forms and flourishes over time, becoming deeper and more meaningful as the couple grows together. But what happens when the emotional side of things becomes unbalanced, or disappears entirely? If you feel that your partner isn’t holding up their side of the bargain in terms of their emotional availability/stability, it’s time to reassess the relationship and get to the root of the problem. Because without emotional intimacy, the connection is lost.   A Calm Conversation             You’re noticing a change, and it is causing you to panic. What happened to your partner’s emotional side? The shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen to your dreams and doubts have vanished, and you feel like you’re left with a shell of the special someone you once relied on. It’s time to talk. Don’t spring it on them; rather give a heads up that you have been noticing a difference in their mood, behavior, and attitude. Put aside your sadness or frustration and approach the matter with curiosity. Perhaps they are going through something that’s making it hard to be there for you. Find out what’s going on and go from there. Clear your mind of the worst-case scenarios and see what develops. It could be as simple as they’re getting too comfortable with the relationship and they’re forgetting to focus on your needs. A conversation may not be a cure, but it’s a step towards solving the problem. Keep the lines open for further discussion as required. No blame, no bickering.   Ask for What You Need             Your partner isn’t a mind reader. Even if things were once perfect, or close to it, over time, changes come. It’s only natural for a relationship to ebb and flow. If you want your partner to listen more intently, share their perspective more proactively, or just be by your side when you’re in a slump, you need to express your desires clearly. If you expect them to know what to do all the time, you’re only setting yourself up for a letdown. You may need to be specific in terms of instances when you need their emotional side to step up to the plate. If you’re too general, they may not know how to help.   Fizzling Out             Sometimes, when a partner becomes emotionally unavailable, they’re no longer interested in continuing the relationship. This form of distancing is the start of a split. Conversations may become surface-level, they don’t notice your emotions, and they don’t share theirs with you. Rather than cutting ties swiftly, this lack of emotional intimacy can linger until one of you decides that the relationship is no longer healthy. If you’re willing to give it another shot, counseling could help. Seek out a therapist, [...]

Dealing with depression can be brutal, especially when your partner is suffering. We go through so many issues in life, and not everything is going to be perfect. When you commit to someone and love them no matter their highs and lows, you’ve signed up for staying by their side through thick and thin. It is not easy or ideal. No one is saying your relationship won’t have its bumps in the road or even a breaking point. But now is the time to be strong, showing your partner that you will help them get through their depression – listening, learning, and providing a steady shoulder to lean on. Your love is their anchor, your support is their hope, and just being there proves you are a true partner.   No Judgement             It is important that you aren’t judgmental or jump to conclusions about your partner’s emotional/mental state. As much as they may share, you still won’t fully know what they are going through, how they are struggling silently, and if or when they will see that light at the end of the tunnel. Your role is to provide comfort and care, express concern, and be open to any and all communication. You may feel scared, sad, frustrated, or confused. Your emotions are valid and expected. Think before you speak, be gentle, and pay attention to both their verbal and physical cues. It is going to be difficult for your partner to be vulnerable, and equally challenging for you to be their sounding board. Just be sure to show sympathy, even if you don’t have a solution or anything to say.   Seek Professional Help             If your partner has not yet sought professional help from a counselor or therapist, perhaps it’s up to you to make that move, or at least aid them in the process. Unless you happen to be one yourself, you won’t have the tools or knowhow that a professional has to deal with depression on a deeper level. It may take many sessions before you see a breakthrough, but just talking it out is helpful, step by step. It may come to the point where your partner needs to take medication or perhaps requires some time solo to deal with their illness. Be understanding, patient, and remain positive. Plenty of people have overcome depression successfully and have gone on to lead fulfilling lives.   Remove the Stigma             To this day, there is an unfair stigma surrounding mental health. It is a shame that as a society, we have not scrapped the notion that mental well being isn’t as “valid” as physical health, and those with depression, for instance, are not always treated seriously. Depression is real, painful, debilitating, and exhausting. It can cause severe suffering and sickness. Be part of the movement to remove the stigma and show your endless support. Increasing awareness [...]

Our friendships are fragile, and keeping them strong and successful is part of what relationships are all about. It is not uncommon to take our friends for granted, and when we don’t nurture our friendships, they can sadly fall apart. Putting forth a conscious effort to maintain close connections is something we should value, particularly when we want to ensure our relationships last a long time. This means paying attention to the details, being attentive always, and weathering the ups and downs that will test your bonds and beliefs. I love my close friends as though they are family. We share secrets and stories and have been one another’s rock when times have been tough. Through good times and bad, we have had each other’s backs, been the shoulder to cry on, and the sounding board for unforeseen scenarios and life’s struggles. We have also celebrated the milestones, major life events, and miracles. In order to keep these friendships solid, I make it a point to evaluate the status of our relationship from time to time. I make sure I do my part to prove I’m a true friend – I put their needs high on my list, I make time to talk, and I give them space when they need some solitude. I never judge or criticize, and I’m patient and protective. Here are two ways you can nurture your friendships, so they don’t get damaged beyond repair. Good friends are hard to come by, so cherish yours and hold them close to your heart.   Be Generous             Generosity goes a long way. This doesn’t mean you have to spend lots of money or make your friends feel less-than due to your good deeds. What you can do is think of your friends, what they may want or need, and give without them having to ask. It’s all about consideration. For example, when you are out running errands one day, pick up a friend’s favorite cupcakes and bring it by their house. Sit down and enjoy the cupcakes with them while you chit chat about your day and what’s going on in your lives.  It’s a simple (and sweet) gesture and gives you an hour or so to connect. Perhaps your friend is out of work. You can’t be expected to pay their bills, but you can help contribute where you can. Offer to pay for their gas when they pick you up or grab the bill when you go for lunch. Things add up, and your kindness will go a long way as they get back on their feet. You can also lend a hand in terms of giving a friend some extra time to tend to their to-dos. Pick up their kids from soccer practice or babysit so they can run errands without the hassle. Your help will be appreciated and enjoyed. Don’t expect anything in return, but a good friend will be the first to [...]

Your relationship with your significant other may be beautiful, but when their family isn’t on board, it can be crushing. No matter the reason or who’s right, dealing with less-than “perfect” relatives is far from pleasant. Perhaps they think you’re “not good enough” for their beloved. Maybe they don’t like where you’re from or what you do for a living. It could be that they’re snobby or unsophisticated. They may be “testing” you or trying to show you that you’ll never be #1. There are a million scenarios that could be at play, from family squabbles to straight-up sabotage. You may know why they’re on your case or have no clue why they don’t embrace you with open arms. They aren’t giving up or giving in, so it’s up to you to find peace in this unsettling situation. You may never get on their good side but getting close is better than being an outcast. Taking the initiative to make the relationship decent is a daring move, but you’ll be better for it in the short term and long run. There’s always hope that they’ll come around and realize that you’re a gem, worthy of the praise they’ve been putting off. Here are some tips to handle the heartbreak. There’s no room for hate, so handle things with an open mind and optimism. Be dignified and direct, and you may just see a ray of sunshine break through the clouds that could potentially ruin your otherwise happy relationship.   Don’t Tiptoe Around the Subject – Be Straightforward and Serious           It’s time to talk. Take the offenders aside and ask them what’s up. Don’t point fingers or start a fight but ask if you’ve said or done anything that they’ve found off-putting or offensive. If you come out of the gates with blame, it’s only going to cause more tension. If you approach things from the angle of care and concern, they won’t be defensive. Be the one to acknowledge there’s an issue and be willing to work it out. Even if you’re sure you’ve done nothing to spark the situation, be patient and let your guard down. Have confidence, and don’t cave. If they can’t give you the benefit of the doubt, then you may just have to try again when you have the chance. Expecting a 180-turnaround in one conversation isn’t realistic, so take every opportunity to raise the issue when possible. With persistence and a peaceful perspective, your efforts may be recognized.   Enlist the Help of Your Partner to Ease the Unrest           You need your partner now more than ever to handle this hostility. The stress will put a strain on your relationship, leaving you both feeling exhausted and unhappy. Your partner may love their family deeply, but if they’re treating you unfairly, it’s cause for concern. If your significant other hasn’t already addressed the “elephant in the room,” it’s time for [...]

Relationships are challenging and require care and attention to thrive. Add the long-distance element into the mix, and the couple must work even harder for their partnership to stay positive. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and perhaps that’s true. But fondness doesn’t necessarily keep a relationship where it needs to be to work. Long distance couples have to take their commitment to the next level, as it is not nearly as easy to manage the ups and downs all couples face when they are not face-to-face. These tips below can help make long distance relationships more doable, especially when the love and compatibility is already there. It may not be ideal to be miles apart, but when both parties are willing to handle the hurdle, the outcome can be beautiful.   Do Dinner             You may not be seated at the same table, but nowadays, you can go for a high-tech meal, even if you are on different continents. FaceTime or Zoom as you sit down to dinner, making the scenario as close to the real thing as you can. You may even wish to cook the same meal or “share” a bottle of wine. Discuss your day and spend time eating slowly rather than scarfing it down. Keep the conversation going as you clean up and sit back on the sofa. The time you have to talk is precious, so sidestep the small talk and get serious…or sexy!   Send Fun and Flirty Texts           Since you can’t see each other all the time, texting is your way of staying connected, any time of day. Whenever the mood strikes, send a love note, a “meme” or joke, a cute emoji, or even a photo of yourself to remind your partner that you are thinking about them. These quick communications may not be especially deep or dramatic, but they keep you both involved and intrigued, and they only take seconds to send. Promise one another that you won’t let too much time lag before responding and get to know one another’s schedules, so you are not left wondering where they’ve been when you don’t hear back.   Make the Most of Your Time Together             When you do have the chance to see each other in person, make every moment count. Clear your calendar and give your undivided attention to one another. Plan special dates, go sightseeing, or stay home to get reacquainted. You have plenty of opportunities to see your friends and family when your special someone isn’t around, so they will certainly understand why you’re “MIA” when your partner comes to town. There may be pressure for everything to be perfect, so don’t stress the small stuff. The most important thing is that you’re together, so use the time wisely and don’t get wrapped up in things that are a waste of time. Hopefully, your long-distance [...]

If you are lucky enough to be in a loving relationship, don’t let the comfort of settling in stop you from giving your partner everything they deserve. While the dynamics of your relationship will inevitably change over time, the core connection is what will keep you lasting for the long haul. Nurturing the love is vital for a relationship to thrive and prosper. Saying “I love you” is special, but it’s not nearly enough to keep it steady and strong. You will need to make a conscious effort to engage in actions and behaviors that speak volumes, along with what you communicate verbally. Being in a long-distance relationship personally, I am constantly aware of how attentive I must be so that our partnership is protected. Not being by each other’s side physically makes things tricky, but we’ve found our own ways to work our magic, even when we’re miles apart. Here are three ways to nurture love in a relationship. It’s worth your while, not only to show your significant other how much they mean to you, but as a benefit to your relationship overall.   Pay Attention to The Details               A little goes a long way, especially when it signifies that you’re looking, listening, and continually learning. You don’t have to go crazy with the grand gestures or gifts as signs of love. Your partner will be far more impressed when you remember how they love Kiwi Strawberry Snapple and you grab them a bottle when you’re at the convenience store, or how they once mentioned a song they love, and you send them a verse via text. Knowing your partner’s preferences and peculiarities shows that you’re paying attention – a sign of care and consideration. You’re invested in their happiness and feel honored to have them as your mate.   Compromise             Being in a relationship isn’t always easy, as we all have our ways and wants. If you’re willing to budge even when it’s a bit of a bother, you’re signaling to your partner that you can compromise, which is crucial for a relationship to work. When you love someone, you’re OK with putting their needs at the top of your list, as long as you find the balance that suits your overall situation. This doesn’t mean that your happiness gets put on the back burner, as they’ll have to share the load and shift their priorities too. Compromising shows that you’re a caring couple. You can work as a team to take on small steps as well as significant struggles. Make it your mission to manage this give and take, and always be the one to go the extra mile to make your partner comfortable.   Be Affectionate             You may not always be “in the mood,” but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your partner’s needs. A peck on the cheek, cuddling in [...]

A night on the town is always sexy, but you can create your own allure with a stay-at-home date night that’s just as juicy. There’s no reason to step out when you have everything you need right at home. Plan a romantic evening in to remember with your special someone and you won’t miss the crowds or cost of going out. Your partner will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and your sense of creativity when it comes to keeping it hot…at home. These three fun at-home date night ideas below are sure to please, proving having a good time doesn’t require reservations.   Fondue and Fine Wine             A steamy pot of fondue and a nice bottle of wine will hit the spot. Go for something savory with a blend of cheeses or stir up something sweet like dark chocolate mixed with gooey caramel and heavy cream. Supply all the treats to dip into the pot, such as crusty bread bites, long pretzel sticks, veggies and fruit, and whatever else comes to mind. Step up your gourmet game by tenderly feeding one another your bubbling creation. Wash the food down with a full-bodied merlot or a light prosecco. You certainly don’t need a full plate of food to satisfy your hunger, and fondue is the perfect mini meal for getting in the mood.   Binge-Watching with Your “Boo”             Staying at home means you can snuggle up in your jammies and get cozy. Catch up on your favorite must-see TV series or watch those movies you’ve heard rave reviews about from your friends. No theater, no problem. Pop a giant bowl of extra-butter popcorn to share, serve some hot cocoa with marshmallows and whipped cream, and get comfy on the couch under a giant blanket. You have all night to be entertained, so be sure you are wide awake before it is time to settle in and binge. Perhaps perking up with some coffee beforehand wouldn’t be a bad idea!   Good Old-Fashioned Game Night             Bring out the board games, a deck of cards, or even a box of Dominos. Dust off that old “Twister” and get all tangled up together. It’s fun to dive into some friendly competition, and a game night date at home is the best way to bond. If you do not have anything to play with, there’s always a game of charades to fall back on. Then again, there are plenty of online games you can download, so poke around through the apps for something you’re both eager to enjoy. Relive your childhood with a new sense of silliness. You don’t have to be serious all the time, and game night will get you feeling like a kid again. Perhaps the winner gets to choose the next date night plans!   Have tons of fun with your partner without setting foot out the front door. [...]

Is your love life lacking in the fireworks department? Perhaps you have been busy…or bored, and the idea of sparks flying isn’t exactly on your mind. It’s understandable, but let’s undo it. When it comes to staying connected to your partner, keeping things hot in the bedroom is part of a healthy relationship. You don’t have to swing from the chandeliers or reenact a steamy sex scene from a movie, but it would benefit you both if you took things up a notch. It is far too easy to fall into a rut, especially if you have been together for a while. Sure, the lust for one another may have waned, but the comfort level can be amped up with some conscious creativity. The “honeymoon” phase can last longer if you put in the effort. Here are three ways to spice up your love life. You deserve to feel sexy and satisfied.   Dress the Part             You can get into the mood by changing up your wardrobe. Rather than flopping around in stained sweats or your worn-out college T-shirt, slip into something that hugs your curves and reveals some skin. Don’t worry about your perceived “flaws” or flab. Every inch of you is fabulous, and flaunting it will kick things into motion the moment you look in the mirror. If you don’t have anything in your dresser that suits you, it is the perfect chance to peruse online to shop for something a bit risqué. When you are dressed to impress, expect to get noticed.   All-Day Foreplay             There is no need to wait until you’re together to “get it on.” Tease and tempt one another throughout the day to prepare for what’s to come later that night. This can involve suggestive text messages, saucy mid-day phone calls, or little love letters left in secret places. Spritz some of your perfume on your partners clothing or leave a pair of your panties in their bag or briefcase. The element of surprise is remarkably stimulating. When the promise of romance is awaiting their arrival, the hours-long build-up will be worth the wait.   Reminisce and Recapture             Go back in time to when your love life was at its peak. The memories will ignite a renewed interest in getting back to the place when you couldn’t keep your hands off one another. Never feel embarrassed to bring it up, and don’t make your partner feel badly that your love life has fizzled out ever since. They’ve surely noticed it too, so be delicate, but determined. It is common among couples, but you don’t have to be another statistic. Speak in positive terms about these hot and heavy times, and how much you enjoyed the excitement. You can pretend you’ve just met and relive the interactions and intimacy all over again. And this time, you can do it even better! [...]

It sometimes seems like the only path to happiness is with a partner. Just look at TV commercials, rom-coms, and Hallmark cards. Sure, being with someone is special, but single life is just as satisfying. You don’t need to be part of a couple to be complete, and it’s about time that the world wakes up and realizes that happiness comes from within, with or without a significant other to share it with. Whether you are single by choice or due to circumstance, embracing your freedom and all the fun you can have solo is exciting. Being partner-free doesn’t mean loneliness. It gives you opportunity to explore and engage, all on your own terms and in your own time. I’m in a relationship, and it gives me great joy. That said, when I was single, I felt just as fulfilled, just in a different way. Life has its steps and stages. It’s important to take in every moment, appreciate the present, and free your mind of the “What ifs?” and focus on the “What now?” Perhaps “The One” is somewhere out there (if that’s what you want), but for now, it’s all about self-acceptance, a zest for life, and the understanding that your peace and prosperity comes from personal experience and positive energy. Here are three ways single people can stay happy and fulfilled. You deserve the best, so dig in and do it.   Form Friendships             You may have a large circle of friends or just one or two you can count on, but there’s always room for new platonic relationships. It can be tricky to make new friends as an adult, but when you’re open to stepping outside your comfort zone, you’ll give off a vibe that’s welcoming and accepting. Seek out like-minded individuals by volunteering, taking classes, or just being extra-friendly when you’re going about your errands and daily to-dos. You can meet new people at the gym, in line at the grocery store, or while you’re walking your dog. All too often, we keep to ourselves and lose the opportunity to find a friend. Smile at a stranger and you may just find a connection.   Be Healthy           Make yourself your number one priority by eating well, exercising, meditating, and treating yourself to the extras that give you a good feeling. When you’re at your best, you feel awake and alive. If we don’t tend to our mind, body, and spirit, we can fall into a slump. We think the answer comes from the outside – perhaps in a mate – but the real solution is self-care and mind-body management. Go for whole foods, lots of hydration, regular workouts, and plenty of sleep. Erase negative thoughts and give yourself the go-ahead to reach new goals and greater self-awareness. It’s not about looking a certain way or pleasing anyone else. Good health is personal and productive. Put your all into it, [...]

Thanksgiving this year may be a little different than usual. With less travel and smaller gatherings, you may find yourself having a cozy couple’s celebration rather than an all-out family/friends affair. While you may miss the catching up and carefree chaos, there’s something nice about giving a low-key thanks with the special someone in your life. A table for two is far simpler to set up, and you won’t have to worry about your “crazy uncle” going off the rails or everyone asking about the status of your relationship. When you have a Thanksgiving for two, you can bring on the romance while being grateful for your blessings, as you carve the turkey and share the side dishes. Pop open a nice bottle of wine, toast to your good fortune, and settle in with a smile. Be sure to leave room for extra dessert…wink, wink.   Eat What You Want             The typical Thanksgiving fare is delicious, but you don’t have to do the same old thing when it’s just the two of you. If you’re in the mood for something different, serve what you like. Perhaps you’d prefer fish or steak instead of turkey, or want to lighten up the side dishes with fresh salads instead of sweet potatoes and stuffing. You can even order in rather than cooking, saving time and energy so you can relax on your day off. You’re sure to still have leftovers, so store them for the next day’s lunch, when you and your partner can enjoy another meal together.   Make It Festive             Just because it’s only the two of you doesn’t mean the holiday isn’t as important. Give yourselves the full Thanksgiving treatment by bringing out the good dinnerware, using cloth napkins, and getting dressed up nicely for your meal. Play some ambiance music, light a few candles, and sit down at the dining room table rather than plopping down on the couch in front of the TV. Take your time with your meal – savor every bite as well as the precious moments with your partner.   Pay It Forward             You’re fortunate to have a hot meal to eat and someone to share it with. Before sitting down to supper, take some time to help those less fortunate. You can spend a few hours volunteering at a soup kitchen, collect canned goods for donation, or give money to a charitable organization. A little goes a long way, and any effort you can put forth will be appreciated. Doing something like this with your loved one makes the experience even more meaningful, and hopefully you’ll continue doing so moving forward.   Follow Up with Family             Your laid-back Thanksgiving is something you’ll cherish, but find a few minutes to wish your family a happy holiday. Zoom or FaceTime to check in on your loved ones [...]

With holiday season fast approaching, making plans with friends and family is at the forefront. While gatherings and get-togethers may be a bit different this year due to the current state of affairs, there are still sure to be celebrations as 2020 wraps. If you are in a relationship and it’s now reaching the next level, the holiday season becomes a bit more involved. With a partner to share the experiences with, there will have to be compromise and consideration. There are two sets of families and friends to manage, introductions to be made, and traditions to formulate and follow. Before you stress out, remember the season is all about love, laughter, and life. There is no need to get too structured when food, fun, and feeling good are first and foremost. These tips below will help you and your significant other navigate the holidays as a couple. Before long, you will be ringing in the New Year with more memories to make.   Give A “Heads Up”         Before accepting invitations and showing up, alert your loved ones that your relationship is getting serious. You don’t want there to be awkward conversations or any big surprises. Those who support your decisions will be happy that you’ve found that “special someone,” and the fact that you’re celebrating these milestones as a couple is a big deal. This will be your first “introduction” as a serious couple, so expect some questions…perhaps a little prying. Hopefully, nothing gets too personal or uncomfortable, and everyone just wants to get to know your partner better.   Divide and Conquer             Unless you can somehow manage to get both sets of family and friends all together for one big gathering, you’re going to have to decide who you’re going to spend the holidays with. This issue often causes tension between partners, so plan wisely well before the holidays approach. You can do Thanksgiving with your family and Christmas or Hannukah with your partner’s. Perhaps you split the day and head over for supper with one set and dessert with another. And who says you must celebrate a holiday on a specific day? Make it a double and celebrate twice! There are plenty of ways to be sure you cover all the bases and see all the faces you look forward to seeing this time of year. With a little arranging and adjusting, everyone will be on board. Better yet, host the holidays yourselves and invite the whole group to your place. Problem solved.   Release the Pressure             Holiday season can cause anxiety. There’s a lot to do, and the expectations are extraordinary. Don’t let the “musts” of the season cause you to lose your cool. Take a deep breath and give thanks for what you have, including your relationship.   Don’t worry about what your friends and family will think. Be yourselves and everything will fall [...]