menu plan – we go over our week and what our schedule looks like then pick how many days we’ll be cooking and what we’ll be having. the sweet spot for us is usually 4 days. 

grocery shop routine – every Sunday morning (before football of course) we go to our local grocery store. maybe, i’m the only one who feels this way but this is something i look forward to. it’s just something we do together as a couple. my boyfriend scans the groceries and i bag. 

health – overall, i’m motivated and disciplined to cook at home because i can control the ingredients. don’t fuss too much with complex meals, keep it simple. this will give you the nudge to keep cooking foolproof, healthy meals.  

set table – who doesn’t love a beautiful tablescape? we started this early on since i am the cook that my boyfriend is responsible for setting the table by getting the dinnerware, water, and candle. this part makes me excited to eat. 

dishes together – we clear the table together and load up the dishwasher together. i think the team effort when it comes to dinner is what makes it a great experience. you’re not left feeling like you’re doing everything, which can feel exhausting. so think of ways how you can divvy up the responsibilities in the kitchen. 

thank you – expressing appreciation is HUGE. i always feel so happy to prepare meals because my boyfriend always says thank you. 

connection – there’s one thing that will always bring us together and that is food. gathering around a table to share a meal is a powerful way to connect and share intimacy. i am very strict about no phones at dinner. i take a quick picture or video of the meal to share on socials then all of my attention is on who i’m sharing dinner with.