Friday, August 07, 2009

Can you go overboard with Romance?

Recently, I had a hotel worker tell me that he thought one of our clients was going a little overboard in making his girlfriend feel special. In one day, he took her horseback riding, on a picnic, for a beach bonfire (where he proposed) and then back to the romantic hotel (which was simply and elegantly decorated with rose petals, candles etc..). Can you do too much to impress a girl? What do you think?

In the illustration above, his girlfriend (now fiance) loved the extra special attention. Of course, it is always going to depend on the woman and on the amount of time you have been together. If you are out on a first date and try to "wow" her with a day full of romance, you more than likely will scare her off.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Would You Like to Get Engaged....and Married...On the Same Day?

Eloping has become more popular these days. After all, who has the money to spend ten or twenty thousand or more on a marriage (an article today cited an NBA basketball star spending $2 Million for his wedding..and he called it off!). If we could do it all over again, my wife and I would have eloped...or at least had a smaller ceremony.

So here's the deal. We are looking for a guy who would be willing to propose - and get married - on the same day. Propose in the morning - get married that same early evening. In California, this is perfectly legal as there is no waiting period and no blood test are necessary.

Just give us a shout by commenting below or email us at sales@romanticroomdesigns.com and we will get back to you with the details. Your proposal that we coordinate for you will be completely free. The ceremony will be highly discounted to include the officiant, flowers, ceremony decoration and a wedding photographer. What a Vegas thing to do (without the smoke, Elvis impersonators, one-armed bandits).

Even Romance Can Survive A Recession

You've heard it before a million times. Now, if you only had a dollar for every time someone said, "This is the worst economic time since the Great Depression." Ugh.

Romance cannot be killed by this harsh financial situation. Why? Because you don't have to spend a mint to remind the person you love (or really like) how you feel about them. It can be as simple as a kind gesture. An unexpected hug or a kiss. Wildflowers picked from a field. You get my drift.

Of course, we operate a site that sells romantic gifts -- albeit inexpensive ones. But our core concept that developed what we do is all about using creativity and a little thought to make yourself a true romantic. It doesn't have to be hard.

In the interest of saving money, we have this special offer. Email us (sales@romanticroomdesigns.com) or use the comments box below, to let us know why you think you are a "romantic." All you need to do is to participate and we'll send you a discount certificate good for 10% off of your next order. Easy - right?

Just remember to put in some effort when it comes to being romantic. A little thought goes a long, long way.

Monday, December 22, 2008

Christmas Proposal?


There is something about this time of year that makes people want to be engaged. Are you planning on proposing this Christmas or New Years? Let us know what your plans are by commenting to the post. We have been fortunate enough to witness a lot of proposals and would love to provide any last minute advice (or we can just shut up and listen to what you have to say).

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

A Romantic Anniversary Celebration

People often ask me if I do anything romantic for my wife. Spending my days providing a service that allows other people to show their romantic side, tends to leave me with not a whole lot of romantic creativity by the end of the day.

For your 10 year wedding anniversary, I did something simple that was really appreciated and shows that the concept for this business (creative, unique and not too costly) really does work. Although there were a lot of things we did and places we went on that special day, one thing stood out.

I surprised her with a trip to the hotel where we spent our first night as an engaged couple. She is a photographer so I had arranged for the hotel to display her best work in their breakfast room. When they escorted us in to show us around the hotel, she was shocked to see her work hanging in a public display.

Afterwards, we were taken up to the exact suite where I had proposed. Although the room was not decorated, I had done a "tub decoration" -- candles, rose petals, flowers, bath and body items, music. It is rare to relax in a bath and spend time with just the two of you - no distractions, no kids - just you, in the middle of the day. It was great.

Out of everything special that we did that day and evening, the thought of the picture and the set up of the tub stood out the most.

Thursday, August 07, 2008

Sometimes We Forget About Romance

It has been a while since my last entry which is a reminder that all of us sometimes forget about romance. I have been married for almost ten years and people assume that I must be the most romantic husband in the world. The truth is -- I might be one of the most unromantic husbands since I spend so much of my time creating a romantic atmosphere for everyone else.

So, how do you remember to be romantic? It's the little things that matter most. Doing something special for her when she least expects it. Maybe it is as simple as making dinner or getting a baby sitter and surprising her with a night out at the movies. It could be taking the time to set up a romantic evening in the bedroom so that when she gets home the right atmosphere is set (and it's not an after thought like "Honey, let's turn off the TV early tonight and make love -- but we better do it now because I have a 7 am morning meeting). Yuck!

To me, being romantic can be as simple as thinking of your partner before you think of yourself (this works in the bedroom as well). As you get older or have been in a relationship for a while, you may find that you have less time to do things that are over the top (e.g. planning a day of picnics and hot air balloon ride). A simple, unselfish gesture can be just the thing you need to be "a romantic at heart."

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Avoid a Rough Valentines Day

"What did you do for Valentine's Day, Sandy", asked Heidi.

"Oh, nothing much," sighed Sandy. "Dave brought home some flowers and take-out and we watched some movies at home."

"Well, that sounds like fun I guess," said Heidi. "At least he remembered to recognize Valentines Day. My husband forgot and at the last minute ran to the store and bought a box of heart shaped candy."

"Still, that's kind of thoughtful," Sandy surmised. "Who doesn't like chocolate?"

"People who are allergic to chocolate!" exclaimed Heidi.

A lot of people out there view Valentine's Day simply as a made-up occasion sponsored by the greeting card companies. Regardless, it is one day where your special someone would like to be recognized as being someone that you really care about. If you ignore the "holiday," you are going to have a problem.

Buying the right gift is the big dilemma. Much like a birthday or anniversary, you want to provide something that has meaning. It doesn't have to cost a lot of money -- in fact, some of the best gifts out there are available for under $100.

The big mistake that you can make is just randomly selecting something that someone else deems a "romantic gift." An elegant piece of gold jewelry is romantic - unless the receiver of the gift doesn't wear any gold and prefers silver. A weekend away at a ski lodge is romantic - unless the recipient despises the cold and prefers warmer surroundings.

The key is to listen. Are there any gift items that they have mentioned? Are there any activities that they have wanted to do with you? Have they used the phrase "I wish you were more romantic?" Has your special someone ever mentioned something romantic that one of your friends did for their spouse?

For me, I really enjoy it when my wife gives me a thoughtful gift that comes with a card that expresses her feelings. All of us have busy lives and very few of us take the time to tell our significant other how we feel about them. This applies to men and women alike. Even the most macho guy wants to know that he is important in the eyes of his lover.

This year, take the time to find just the right gift. Investing in a thoughtful, creative and romantic gift will be remembered forever.

Friday, January 11, 2008

The Most Popular Romantic Gifts -Women

What are some of the most romantic gifts that women want for Valentines Day, an anniversary or birthday? We did some research on the internet and asked friends, family and coleagues and here is our top 10 list (no particular order):

- Jewelry (Diamonds of course followed by heart pendants)
- A planned Romantic Getaway
- Favorite Flowers
- Perfume (also her favorite - don't guess)
- A day at the Spa (no kids)
- A Romantic Dinner (at home #1 followed by an intimate restaurant)
- A thoughtful gift (something she has mentioned before).

If there is one commonality amongst these items, it is that all of them require some time and thought on the man's part. That's why a romantic dinner cooked at home scored higher than dinner in a restaurant. It's also why planning a surprise romantic getaway with planned activities scored high as well. Women love when a romantic evening has been completely planned out (hotel, romantic items for the room, babysitter, transportation).

The surprise factor was also important. Planning something that you know she would like but does not expect. Basically, women want to feel loved and . Doing special things (in any capacity) to make a woman feel loved and cherished and appreciated is the ultimate romantic gift!

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Just Being Nice is Romantic

I just got off the phone with a really nice woman from San Francisco. She is traveling here to have a romantic getaway with her boyfriend who she rarely gets to see. She was such a pleasant person to speak with and it struck me that just being nice can be romantic. Listening to your spouse or boyfriend/girfriend can make them feel important. A lot of studies out there say that the feeling of importance is our number one need in life. A feeling that you matter -- that you belong.

So the next time you are feeling overwhelmed and don't have time to converse with your special someone, stop and take a moment to listen. You might be surprised by what you hear. And when it comes to finding a gift for your next anniversary or their birthday, you might actually get it right.

Monday, December 17, 2007

What Women Think About Men

There was a movie that came out years ago with Mel Gibson called "What Women Want." His character had the ability to listen in to what women were really thinking. Wouldn't that help resolve a lot of questions!

Of course all men are different and all women are different. I asked someone who has been married for over 50 years what was most important to her about her husband. "Character", she said. "Without a doubt, it's all about who he is and not what he looks like."

Back in college I seem to remember a lot of girls who were more interested in a guys looks or if he was associated with popular people on campus. I think as we all get older, our needs change. The importance of looks and status are often replaced with a need for companionship and similar ideals.

What do you think? Send in your comments.

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Making Christmas Romantic

When it comes to a romantic holiday, the first time of year people think of is Valentines Day. However, Christmas is one of the most popular times to give a special gift to that special someone you love. Christmas Eve is also a day when many couples get engaged.

There is just something magical about the Christmas season. It signals the end of the current year and the start of another. It's a time when you show appreciation for others. It's a time of reflection on the past and looking forward to the future.

Many years before starting this company, I used to give some really bad gifts to my girlfriend (although she still became my wife). One year, it was a curling iron. Another year it was a hairdryer and the first year it was a sweater. Even though these were things that she mentioned she really wanted, it wasn't really my place to give them to her (better her mom or brother or grandmother gift them to her).

Try to give something with a personal touch. If you are short on funds, it could be an invitation to a home cooked candlelight dinner at home or a picnic for two in a beautiful secluded setting. If you make it personal, it's hard to go wrong.

In leaving a local business today, the clerk mentioned that she was a bit down about Christmas this year. People had already started to rush through her store like there was no tomorrow so that they could scratch another name off of their Christmas list. Don't be someone who rushes through the holidays buying a gift just for the sake of having to make that purchase. Put in some time and effort (and creativity) and it will be one of the best Holiday Seasons.

Monday, May 28, 2007

The Summer of Love

There is something about summer that brings out the best in a relationship. Perhaps it is the warmer weather and longer daylight hours that makes people a little more relaxed and willing to take a chance on love. Of course, life does not stand still and you still have responsibilites to take care of (unless your a student without a summer job) so you have to make the effort to plan out "date nights." With the change of seasons, some great things to do include a sunset picnic in the park, bonfire on the beach, and outdoor candlelight dining (restaurant or at home). If you have an old fashioned drive-in theater nearby you can make a unique evening of dinner and a late night movie.

Sunday, January 07, 2007

Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day can be one of the most romantic times of the year. Even though some people might view it as just a "Hallmark created holiday," it is still important to show that someone you love that you appreciate them on February 14th. Better yet, use some creativity and thought to make your gift stand out.

If your a good cook, you can decorate a table in your home and serve a romantic, candlelight dinner. Using some of our products, you can decorate your bedroom at home (or a nearby hotel) and surprise them with an ultra-romantic evening. If you give a card, try something more unique such as purchasing a beautiful handmade card, opening it up and writing some beautiful poetry and framing it. With our new Message In A Bottle, your message (parchment paper scroll) is enclosed in a thick glass bottle with dried rose petals and packaged in an elegant velvet bag with "Key To My Heart" attached around the rim.

Coming to Monterey for Valentine's Day? Give us a call and we will help you plan a fantastic Valentine's Day getaway.

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

Christmas Proposal

Are you thinking of popping the question? Christmas might be the right time to ask.

There are a lot of factors to think about. Where are you spending Christmas? If it is with her family, do you feel confident enought that she will say yes? If you think she may be on the fence, either propose in private or wait until you know how she really feels about you. Otherwise, you may have a bit of trouble choking down that Christmas ham in front of your "should-have-been, could-have-been" in-laws.

How do you do it? There are a lot of clues out there on the net. Some guys do it as simple as wrapping a ring inside of a small gift box and presenting it on Christmas Eve. Others will take a more elaborate approach including:

- Placing a ring INSIDE of an ornament and hanging it on the tree for her to find.
- Wrapping yourself up in a large, wrapped box and having her unwrap you holding the ring (don't forget your air holes!)
- Dressing up as Santa Claus, taking her requests and offering the ring.

Just a few ideas. We have our own proposal ideas listed on the site that you may want to check out. In any event, take some time to plan it out. There is nothing worse than a story about a half-baked proposal (example: I handed her the ring while she was coming out of the shower).

Saturday, November 18, 2006

Thanksgiving Toast

Most of us think of Thanksgiving as a time to spend with family, eating too much food and watching a little football. It's also a time to give thanks for what you have. If you're married to a wonderful woman, take a moment during dinner to express how much she means to you. It's not a grandiose holiday like Christmas or Valentine's Day -- but it one where your surprise speech will have quite an impact.

Saturday, October 28, 2006

Local Romantic Getaway

If you live in Monterey County, you probably have not spent more than a night or two in a local hotel, inn or B&B. With the holidays approaching, this is a great time to pack an overnight bag and surprise your sweetie with a mid-week romantic getaway.

We know of over 30 hotels that are offering extra special value rates from November 1 - December 31 (sort of a locals rate). Package a room that is selling for 50+% off along with a romantic room design and you can enjoy a little relief from the hustle and bustle of the season.

We are offering a couple of new packages just for local Monterey County residents including a "Holiday Stress Relief" experience which includes discount offers from local spas, a shopping bag filled with area coupons, and some great in-room gift items to help you relax.

If you haven't found a gift for your significant other, you can always surprise them with a romantic vacation right in your own back yard. Chose a hotel and contact us about designing your own private romantic hideaway. Keep it a surprise and just show up to the hotel and check-in (you'll have to pack her bags for her). Enjoy a night out of dining and live music (yes, there is entertainment available on the Peninsula). Many of our designs include bath & body items and/or massage kits -- you may not want to leave the room after all!

Don't forget that our romantic, private bonfires are also available as we wind up our Indian Summer towards the end of this month.

Check out the details on our site at Romantic Room Designs or email us at sales@romanticroomdesigns.com for more details.

Time to Propose?

For those of you who are unmarried and in a relationship, is it finally time to propose? Take our test to find out:

• Does your girlfriend stop by every jewelry store at the mall and say, "That ring is really pretty"?
• When one of your friends gets engaged, does she give you the silent treatment?
• Does she keep repeating, "My parents really like you. They say that you're the son they never had"?
• At parties, does she introduce you as "This is my fiance -- oh, I mean my boyfriend..."?
• Have you been issued an ultimatum (e.g. If we are not engaged by Christmas, I'm moving on)?

Well, the holidays are almost here and it is the perfect time to "pop the question." You have probably heard of a bunch of ideas of creative ways to propose during Christmas Eve or during New Years. If you plan on making your way down to the Monterey Peninsula, give us a call (831-393-0445) and we will do our best to help you coordinate this special event. After all, the proposal story is one that will be told time and time again. Do it right, and you will love hearing it repeated. Do it wrong, and oh...well, there are always ear plugs or walking out of the room.

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

Wife Appreciation Day

Guys - You are going to read this and wonder why I would mention a "made up" holiday that involves giving yet another gift. Well, sometimes a gift is better received when it in unexpected.


According to Chase's Guide to Special Events, September 16 is "National Wife Appreciation Day." Do you love your wife? Does she do a lot of nice things for you? Show her that you appreciate her -- on a day that is not her birthday, your anniversary, Christmas or Valentine's Day.


For an event like this, a simple gift that takes some thought and creativity is the best way to go. Take her to her favorite restaurant (or the restaurant where you first dined after being married) or for a picnic in the park. Treat her to a home-cooked meal or a night out on the town. Whatever you do, just take the time to really appreciate her this Saturday. There are a lot of men out there who are probably pretty jealous of what you have.

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

National Romance Week

According to Chase's Guide to Annual Events, next week (August 13-19) is considered National Resurrect Romance Week. Should you care?

A lot of guys are down on the concept of Valentine's Day. Being "forced" into having to buy some spectacular gift on one particular day is a bit of added pressure that none of us needs.

But doing something romantic for her when she does not expect it can go a long way. And what better time to do it than Romance Week.

Do something nice not only for her but for yourself. Romance is about "you" the couple -- not just her. Have a little fun. Take her to a restaurant that has special meaning. Try to escape for a one night romantic getaway in the middle of the week. Buy her a gift that isn't super expensive but means a lot and that both of you can enjoy.

Monday, July 31, 2006

Ask Your Relationship Questions

Do you have any relationship questions that you need answered?

Recent questions (and answers) from previous blog posts:

- When she says she doesn't want anything for her birthday should I believe her?

No. She does want something and she wants to be surprised with a thoughtful gift -- not something you picked up hours before seeing her. The worst gift you can give in this case is something like a shrink-wrapped coffee gift basket from Costco.

- My girlfriend said she needs some space and time to think. Is she breaking things off with me?
Probably Yes. More than likely, she wants to see how life would be without you in it.

- My wife has been in a bad mood all week long. When I ask what's wrong, she says "nothing." What do you think is going on?
She is mad about something. Sit her down and ask her point blank. If she still maintains that nothing is wrong, let her know that you have noticed that she seems unhappy. The sooner you get to the root of the problem, the more quickly you can try to fix it.


Post your questions here. We will reply with a post soon.