With temperatures remaining on the low end of the thermometer, it’s easy to want to stay snuggled by the fire drinking hot cocoa. Although that sounds like a pretty great way to spend your day and night, it’s smart to have some other ideas to help you stay warm with your loved ones this winter. Take a look through these articles from our partners for some great suggestions:
1. Take a trip: If the weather is getting to you and you’ve just about had enough, take a break from the cold winter air. Considering how busy you are between work and family, you deserve a vacation! Try somewhere warm where you can bask in the sun while your children play in the sand. Check out these famous families that have been doing just that. (CelebrityBabyScoop.com)
2. Be careful: You’re off to the beach and ready to spend your day soaking up the sun. Even though Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, not everything has to be red. So make sure to keep your skin and eyes healthy by lathering on that sunscreen and wearing your shades. (GalTime.com)
3. Arrange your gear: If you can’t take a trip to somewhere hot, be sure to bundle up before going outdoors. Stay organized this season by keeping all of your cold weather gear sorted neatly. The last thing you want is to be headed out the door in a rush with only one glove. (GalTime.com)
4. Stay happy: No matter what your plans are, spend each moment with your family in pure happiness. Let them know how much they mean to you. Taking time to have fun and get away from a hectic schedule is the perfect way to spend this winter, whether it be in your own backyard or on a sunny beach somewhere. (YourTango.com)
5. Appreciate the little things: Eric Micha’el Leventhal once said, “There is no greater treasure in this world than somebody who loves you as you are.” Learn to fully appreciate where you are in life and celebrate your relationships. Check out some of these other awesome quotes about gratitude. (YourTango.com)
How do you plan on staying warm for the rest of winter? Tell us in the comments below!
Couple forming a heart. Photo: Subbotina Anna / Bigstock.com
By Maria Darbenzio
When it comes to a relationship, you should never hide how much you love someone. After all, there are so many great ways to celebrate your romance. Check out these articles from our partners to give you some ideas:
1. Spend a night out: You may not be able to attend prestigious award celebrations while wearing the latest couture like the celebrities, but nothing’s stopping you from dressing your best. You can host a dinner party, attend a cocktail night, or just gather a few friends for a meal at a nice restaurant. Not only should you celebrate your relationship but also the people who have helped you along the way.
2. Look within: Celebrations don’t always need to be fancy and require reservations. Take time to look at your relationship as a couple and let your partner know how special they are to you. Remind them (and yourself) of what made you fall in love in the first place.
3. Recreate a date: Think about what your first date was like, where you went and what you did. It can be easy to forget the details, so keep them fresh by recreating it. Revisit the spot where you first met or kissed, but try wearing a different outfit, styling your hair in a new way, or maybe sampling a sexy makeup look.
4. Leave sweet notes: It’s easy to get caught up in a busy schedule. If conflicting times make it hard to sit back and relax together, take an alternative route: Slip a note into your man’s briefcase before he heads for work or leave one on his nightstand. It’ll let him know you haven’t forgotten how much he means to you, and it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to his face. Check out some of these quotes for ideas!
5. Rekindle lost love: Maybe you’re looking to make amends with a former partner. Before moving forward, make sure the relationship is worth getting back into. After you win each other over for the second time, celebrate the relationship you have now and the progress you want to make. Don’t let the past ruin your future.
What are some ways you like to celebrate your relationship? Share your comments below!
Man with flowers and candy. Photo: buso23 / Bigstock.com
By Maria Darbenzio
The holiday of romance is right around the corner, so now is the time to start making plans (that is, if you haven’t done so already). Don’t catch yourself off-guard with a last-minute dash for reservations. Whether you’ll be spending the day with a special someone or going out for a single girls’ night on the town, check out these great articles from our partners for some fun tips:
1. Giving gifts: Buying a gift for someone can be difficult no matter the holiday. Although your feelings should be expressed every day of the year, Valentine’s Day is perfect for sharing new and exciting components of your relationship. If you’re still having trouble thinking up the perfect present, try browsing through some of these ideas.
2. Being prepared: As you ladies know, nothing’s worse than smearing your makeup without having anything in your purse to fix the problem. Don’t be caught unprepared! Keep your lipstick close by and freshen up when it begins to fade. Check out what else you should keep with you so you can stay radiant all night long.
3. Choosing an outfit: Sometimes, there’s simply not enough hours in the day for a wardrobe change. If you need to rush from the office to the restaurant on Valentine’s Day and have no time to stop home in between, find some transitional styles that can take you from that daytime outfit to the perfect date night look. You can find some fabulous pieces that will make you look glam in no time.
4. Sorting your schedules: Both you and your partner lead very busy lives. Make sure that your plans have been made at a time that works for both of you. The last thing you want is to have to postpone — or even cancel — your Valentine’s Day date.
5. Embracing singledom: There’s nothing wrong with spending Valentine’s Day on your own. In fact, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this holiday by yourself. Use this day to treat yourself and discover new things to be passionate about. Take a look at this article for some awesome ideas!
Do you have Valentine’s Day plans yet? Share in the comments below!
Newlyweds laying in grass. Photo: photobac / Bigstock.com
By Maria Darbenzio
It’s the end of the holiday season, which also means that the new year has brought engagements and weddings to plan. The road to your big day may seem like a long one, but with a few tips, you can get through the journey without any major detours. CupidsPulse.com gathered these great articles from our partners to help you along:
1. Prioritize: The most important part of planning a wedding is choosing a date and budget. Without knowing the timing, you’ll be unable to pick out flowers, choose a color scheme, or decide whether your ceremony will be outdoors or indoors. In terms of budget, well, we all know that weddings can come with a hefty price tag if limitations aren’t set from the start.
2. Find inspiration: Writing your vows can be a fun opportunity to express your love in a unique way. If you are struggling with finding the right words, try some of these quotes on marriage to help move things along.
3. Seek comfort: What you’ll be wearing under your dress can be just as crucial as the dress itself. You’re going to be in your dress for the majority of the day, so comfort and functionality is what you’ll want to be looking for. There are tons of options available for the bride-to-be. Do some research on what’s available, and then you can try them on and get a feel for what’s best for you.
4. Talk honeymoon: Much like the wedding, honeymoons can leave your wallet looking a little barren. Talk to your significant other about what type of honeymoon you’d both enjoy and how much you’re willing to spend. If you’re a little lost, check out this list of destinations for a wide range of budgets.
5. Focus on the positive: It’s hard to stay away from news of divorce and separation of both celebrities and non-celebrities alike. Don’t let the negative news get you down! Focus on your relationship and take a look at couples who are happily married. On the other hand, those who have been divorced can give you some ideas of what causes a marriage fall apart.
What’s your best tip for planning a wedding? Share below.
If one of your resolutions is to be the best girlfriend you can be, we’re here to help! Thanks to these great articles from our partners, you’ll be off to a fantastic start.
1. Reflect on your love: The New Year is the perfect time to think back on the past twelve months and look forward to the future. Consider these touching quotes from well-known authors, artists, and poets. Maybe you’ll even be inspired to write some sweet words of your own!
2. Partner up: Take a cue from Real Housewives of New York star Jill Zarin and join your man in supporting a cause that’s close to both of your hearts.
3. Make him happy: Make your partnership the best it can be by focusing on your beau and what keeps him smiling. Guys aren’t so complicated — it’ll be easier than you think!
4. Fully commit to your beau: With next week’s premiere of The Bachelor, you’ll be obsessing over what lucky lady is going to win Juan Pablo’s heart before you know it. Why not focus on your own man instead and help your relationship grow even stronger?
5. Take the next steps: If you’ve been with your someone special for the past few weeks and know that he’s a keeper, it may be time to take your relationship to a new level. Consider these five tips as you plan your first overnight date.
How will you become closer to your partner this year? Tell us in the comments below.
The start of a new year is like a blank slate. It’s the perfect time to evaluate your goals and figure out what you want to accomplish over the next 365 days. If you’re single and ready to settle down, use these great articles from our partners to open up your heart to love in 2014:
1. Get inspired: Thanks to these 50 romantic quotes, you’ll be more than ready to find the relationship you deserve. So snuggle up with a cup of hot cocoa and get ready to be inspired! (YourTango.com)
2. Rediscover your passion: It’s easy for romance to take a backseat during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Whether you’re partnered up with someone who you think may be your soulmate or you’re working up the courage to say hello to your crush, these four tips will help you reignite your love life. (GalTime.com)
3. Tap into technology: If you want to settle down in the new year, it’s time to change your approach to dating. Use this foolproof advice to perfect your online dating skills and meet the man of your dreams. (YourTango.com)
4. Take a deep breath: Former Baywatch star Gena Lee Nolin encourages us to enjoy this time of year — whether you’re single, in a new relationship, or happily married with four children (like she is!). After all, “true happiness comes from within.” (Celebrity Baby Scoop)
5. Ring in the new year with someone new: Just because you’re single doesn’t mean you can’t have a fantastic New Year’s Eve. Why not find a single guy and plan a first date for December 31st? Sparks may fly! No matter what you decide to do, reflect on the past year and set clear goals for the coming twelve months. (GalTime.com)
How will you find true love in 2014? Tell us in the comments below!
The holidays are meant to be spent with the ones you love most: your family. Whether you’re a newlywed spending your first Christmas with your husband’s family or new parents trying to survive those sleepless nights, it’s important that you soak up this time together. With this thought in mind, CupidsPulse.com has pulled together these great articles from our partners, filled with the tips you need to have a fun-filled holiday with your family:
1. Bond as a family: It’s no secret that your kids won’t be little forever, so why not enjoy this time before it’s gone? Take a look at these gift ideas to bring your family even closer. (GalTime.com)
2. Show your bestie you care: Many women find a BFF in their sister or mother, but even if you’re not related to your best friend by blood, you probably still view her as family. These 37 friendship quotes will remind you how special your bestie is. (YourTango.com)
3. Celebrate your loved ones: Making people feel loved and special is important all year long, not just during the holidays. Here are four ways to show your family and friends just how much you care. (GalTime.com)
4. Embrace your inner kid: Take a cue from Alyson Hannigan and her husband of ten years Alexis Denisof and be a kid at heart. We promise you’ll enjoy the holidays even more through the eyes of a child! (CelebrityBabyScoop.com)
5. Tell your partner you love her: With the needs of your little ones filling you and your wife’s days (and often your nights), it’s easy for you to feel like you’re missing out on time as a couple. Use these 15 tips to make sure your actions show your sweetheart just how much you love her. (YourTango.com)
Cupid wants to know: How will you bond with your family during the holidays?
Couple exchanging gifts. Photo: Subbotina Anna / Bigstock.com
By Kerri Sheehan
Snow falls in thick, icy blankets; winter attire adorns every shop window; and a sip of steaming hot chocolate instantly warms you up. All of this can only mean one thing: The holiday season is upon us! CupidsPulse.com has gathered some of our favorite articles from our partners this week to make your winter the best it can be.
1. Laugh a little: Nothing is better than popping in a nice comedy with your significant other on a cold winter’s night and having a good laugh. These comedians will tell you just how funny love can be. (YourTango.com)
2. Cuddle up: One of the best parts about the chilly weather is that you and your guy have all the more reason to stay indoors and snuggle with each other. Here are 47 of the cutest love quotes for that person you just want to ‘mush.’ (YourTango.com)
3. Get the girls together: Staying in isn’t just for you and your man; your girlfriends want in on the fun too! See how Melissa Joan Hart and her closest gal pals celebrated the holiday season with a cute “girls only” get together. (CelebrityBabyScoop.com)
4. Winterize your skin: Don’t stop at a girls’ night when it comes to pampering yourself. The icy temperatures are sure to leave your skin screaming for thirst, so here are some ways to get your skin ready for winter. (GalTime.com)
5. Be the best gift giver: Now that you’ve given yourself a gift (or two), it’s time to spread that holiday cheer! Even if you aren’t a parent, there are bound to be a child or two on your shopping list. These gender-neutral gifts will have any kid wishing that Santa asked you for gifting advice. (GalTime.com)
What’s your best tip for surviving the holiday season? Share below.
Longtime relationships aren’t for everyone, but for those who have a committed significant other, keeping the spark alive is of the utmost importance. After a few years together, it can be hard to look at your partner like the lovestruck school girl you once resembled. CupidsPulse.com has gathered some of the best tips and advice from our partners — read on to keep your relationship fresh, strong, and loving.
1. DIY Therapy: Any couple will agree that the seas of love aren’t always easy to navigate. The best way to revamp your union is to partake in some do-it-yourself relationship therapy. This approach isn’t for everyone, but give it a try; it may just work for you! (GalTime.com)
2. Weekly Meetings: When you and your significant other have been together for so long, you tend to let the things that bother you simmer rather than addressing them and moving on. You can only begrudgingly wash the dishes so many times before you feel resentment that your guy never takes his turn. Holding weekly meetings where you clear the air and talk about any issues you may have will keep you both happy. (GalTime.com)
3. Express Yourself: Being in love is like winning the lottery; it’s exciting and wonderful, and it adds so many new opportunities to your future. However, it can be hard to put these feelings into words. Here are 50 love quotes that say what you can’t. (YourTango.com)
4. The Duggar Family: If you’re familiar with the reality show 19 Kids and Counting, then you know that Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar celebrated their 29th wedding anniversary this past October. The mother of 19 shared her top three tips for a successful marriage. (CelebrityBabyScoop.com)
5. Expert Advice: Every relationship is different, so it can be hard to give distinct advice without knowing the whole story. Here are the best tips and expert advice around for couples in any situation. (YourTango.com)
What is your best advice for couples in a long-term relationship? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Family gathering for a special occassion. Photo: Wavebreak Media Ltd / Bigstock.com
By Kerri Sheehan
The holidays are a time for family and friends to get together and celebrate the best parts of life – so how come no one ever mentions the stress that comes with that? The instructions that came with the turkey say it needs to be basted every hour, but proper dinner conversation topics are rarely outlined. And, of course, there are tons of Black Friday promotions, but there are none that say specifically, “Grandma Margaret will love this!” CupidsPulse.com has gathered some of the best tips and advice from our partners to help you navigate your Thanksgiving weekend:
1. Give Thanks: Thanksgiving is about just that: giving thanks! Whether it’s your husband who helps you enjoy the simple things in life, your beautiful baby girl who will be celebrating her first Thanksgiving this year, or your employer who ensures that you have the funds to stay afloat, don’t forget to show your gratitude for everyone who enriches your life. (CelebrityBabyScoop.com)
2. Easy Conversation: You can bet that almost everyone has suffered through one or two awkward Thanksgiving dinners. This holiday is a family affair, so there will likely be those of all ages at the table. Some of your relatives may have also invited new love interests. Here are five go-to dinner conversation topics to keep talk appropriate and fun. (GalTime.com)
3. Good Deals: Now that you’ve made it through Thanksgiving Day, it’s on to Black Friday! This is the ideal time to get some holiday shopping done, as many people have the day off from work and there will be some great discounts. Learning to weed through all of the promos will help you find the best deals. (GalTime.com)
4. Family Presents: After years of buying gifts for your entire family, you may be short on ideas of what will make their eyes widen. Really, how many times can you buy Aunt Mary a bathroom set, and how many cardigans does your mother need? Here are some unique gifts that your relatives will be sure to love. (YourTango.com)
5. Gift Guide: Nothing shows how much you care like picking out the perfect gift for your boyfriend. If you do, he’ll know that you not only pay attention to what he likes but also that you listen when he talks about his love for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers over the Green Bay Packers. With all of the Black Friday deals out there, let this gifting guide help you decide which presents will make your man the happiest. (YourTango.com)
What is your best Thanksgiving weekend advice? Share below.
The next time you sit at home, clicking around your computer on Facebook or Twitter, think about your online activity. Have you looked at your current or ex-lover’s social media pages today? Have you ever used a dating site? To what extent do you research a new lover once you get to know them? (Admit it, you Google them!) We’re in an age where we can, at will, summon information about anyone at anytime with just the click of a mouse or swipe of the tablet. You can even look this stuff up on your smart phone. No stone is left unturned, because we can flip them all over at once with digital precision. This begs the ultimate question: How has social media affected the way we handle our love lives?
On Valentine’s Day, Cupid’s Pulse Executive Editor and Founder, Lori Bizzoco was asked to participate in a discussion concerning this very topic. She joined a panel of distinguished colleagues in the relationship industry including Nancy Slotnick, Founder of Cablight.com, Rob Judge of DateHotterGirls.com, and Tom Miller, General Manager of YourTango.com. The event was staged at Big Fuel, one of the hubs for Social Media Week in New York City.
The main topic of discussion was how the social web has had a profound impact on the way we connect with each other. It’s affected our friendships, our relationships with our families, our professional networks, and ultimately our love lives. People are now discovering romantic partners in a whole new way, and social networking continues to play a major role after a relationship has ensued.
Lori drew on her personal success as an online dating success story to highlight the positives that this form of romance can yield. Along with Tom, Rob, and Nancy, there was a general consensus that online dating is fine but maintaining a balance between digital and in-the-flesh experience is key. Sites like HowAboutWe.com were cited as places where the initial spark can be created, and then taken into the real world.
The panel served as a sounding board for the new atmosphere that social media has provided to daters. The way we reconcile it, apparently, is with appropriate balance. Too much of a good thing is, indeed, too much.
