As the anniversary approaches, many couples find themselves stuck in isolation, far from the romantic getaways they had envisioned. Charlotte Ricard-Quésada, a seasoned international events and wedding planner, and founder of La Fête, recently celebrated her own milestone despite the unconventional circumstances. Drawing from her experience, she shares valuable insights on how to make the most of an anniversary in quarantine.
Whether you’re looking for ways to reignite the spark or simply find joy in the midst of isolation, these tips will help you turn a potentially dull celebration into a memorable one.
Words From Charlotte…
As we celebrated our two-year wedding anniversary on March 17th, 2020, just as the lockdown was looming, my partner and I made a conscious decision to prioritize safety over celebration. It’s peculiar to crave a special day while being confined at home. To make the most of it, we opted for a cozy evening in, complete with a delicious homemade meal, soft candlelight, and a trip down memory lane.
We relived our favorite moments by gazing at our wedding photos, cherishing the journey we’ve shared so far.
The Important Things…
As I reflect on our experience with quarantine, I’m struck by the ways it’s tested our relationship – we’ve been together for seven years. However, I believe this unprecedented situation has also presented an opportunity for growth and learning. The prolonged period of togetherness has allowed us to appreciate each other’s support in both big and small moments. And let’s be real, during times like these, it’s the smaller things that truly matter.
The Goal…
While the specifics of how you celebrate your anniversary may not be crucial, what truly matters is the quality time spent with your loved one. As long as you’re both in a state of joy and well-being, that’s all that counts. Here are some of our go-to ideas for making this special day even more unforgettable.
Your Best China…
Make mealtime a more enjoyable experience by setting the tone with a beautifully set dinner table. Instead of eating in front of the TV, take the time to use your best crockery and china. You likely invested in these fine pieces for special occasions, so why not make every night feel like one? By creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, you’ll transform the way you enjoy meals together.
To elevate the experience further, consider having some fresh flowers delivered to add a touch of elegance to the table. Not only will this create a pleasant ambiance, but it’ll also be supporting a small business in your community.
Spice It Up…
Embrace the evening’s culinary possibilities! With ample time to cook something truly special, why not seize the moment and break free from routine? Take on the challenge of preparing a multi-course meal that will delight both your taste buds and your partner’s. Choose a recipe that resonates with their culinary preferences, gather all the necessary ingredients, and embark on a cooking adventure together.
By committing to this experience, you’ll not only create a memorable evening but also foster deeper connections with your significant other. Consider starting with a soothing soup or velouté, followed by a mouthwatering main course like homemade sweet and sour chicken with egg fried rice, and concluding the meal with your favorite dessert.
A Bit Of Tradition…
Drawing inspiration from traditional anniversary themes can be a great way to add some creativity and uniqueness to your celebration. This approach can also help you get creative with gifts and decorations, using items you may already have at home. For example, you could use cotton tablecloths, napkins, or even clothing as part of your theme. In our case, we dressed up in all cotton attire and used the fabric for personalized bathrobes as gifts to each other.
Oh The Memories…
As you reflect on your relationship, take a walk down memory lane by revisiting the visual reminders of your journey together. Flip through your wedding album or scroll through photos and videos from special moments since you’ve been together. Allow yourself to become lost in the nostalgia as memories come flooding back. It’s incredible how easily this sentimental trip can transport you to that emotional state, often culminating in a mix of tears and laughter as reality sets in.
Say No To Corona…
Leave the world’s worries, including the current pandemic, behind for a night. Focus on nurturing a romantic connection with your partner, free from the stress of everyday life. A night spent together, sans distractions, can be incredibly rejuvenating. If you’re looking to spice up your quarantine romance, we’ve got some date night ideas that don’t require leaving your home.
From intimate cooking sessions to virtual game nights, these activities will help you reconnect and create memories with your loved one.