Hey, hi, hello! Happy spring! The weather is finally beginning to warm up, so I thought I'd share some fun spring date ideas and include a bonus outfit tip!

1. Botanical Gardens

Take a stroll through the botanical gardens and grab a bite to eat afterward! This is a great way to strike up a conversation for all my fellow nature-lovers!

2. Zoo

This is a great option if you're fairly new to dating. Having something to do and look at for a couple hours can help take the stress off of a date!

3. Bike Ride + Ice Cream

Rent a couple of bikes for the day and ride around town! Renting bikes can be pretty inexpensive, and you can make stops along the way (ice cream, lunch, etc.).

4. Stargazing

In high school, this was one of my all-time favorite dates! Grab a couple of blankets and pillows and head out to a quiet place in your area. The best spots are with the least amount of light. This makes it easier to see the stars! Here's a map that can help you determine an ideal location near you: Light Pollution Map. The red spots are areas you ideally would want to avoid to see that stars better!

5. Picnic

A fun picnic in the park or another scenic area that you enjoy can also be fun! Pack a brunch/lunch and enjoy the sunshine.

6. Play with Rescue Puppies

Research a local animal rescue organization and spend some time making new furry friends!

7. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding can really push you out of your comfort zone if you haven't ridden a horse before. If it's your first time, don't be nervous! The guides do a wonderful job of helping out and teaching you how to properly interact with the horses. The horses are trained to just follow one another, so it's really not too bad! The views along the way are also definitely worth it.

8. Kayak, Paddleboard or Paddleboat

This is another fun activity if you don't mind getting a little wet! Grab a smoothie or ice cream afterward!

9. Famers' Market

I don't know about you guys, but I love farmers' markets! There's so many different things to try and it's always great to shop local. You could even pick up different items for a picnic later.

10. Mini Golf

This one is also one of my favorites! Having an activity to do can help relieve stress of a date if you're new to dating someone. A little competition doesn't hurt either! ;)

I hope these date ideas sparked some sort of date creativity! Here's a bonus date outfit tip for my fellow ladies:

Dress in something that you're comfortable in! I typically go for jeans and a cute top. If the date is going to be a little chilly or in the evening, I'll typically add a cute jacket that I pop on when it gets dark (unless you want to pull the "I'm chilly and need your jacket" move...then do it girl).

Shoes are always a debate because often times the person you're going on the date with won't tell you what your plans are for the day for the sake of being cute and secretive. In that case, I'll wear my flats from Rothy's. I'm typically not a huge flats advocate, because I have a hard time finding ones that stay on, are comfortable, and trendy at the same time.

I was honestly pleasantly surprised when I wore these flats for the first time because I quickly realized that not only did they work well with many different outfits and seasons, but they were also a shoe choice that would be comfortable throughout my entire day given they were flexible and filled with extra padding while maintaining a slim shape.

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They come in a lot of different colors, and I love how simple and basic they are -- for sure a closet staple! My pair ran true to size, which I was also really pleased with...especially since I ordered them online and didn't get to try them on prior to receiving them.

If you'd like to check out Rothy's, you can shop their loafers here: The Loafer -- Rothy's.

I hope you all have some fun spring dates this season and have fun styling your outfits!

Be sure to tag me on Instagram @mattealinae so I can see your outfits!

Happy Spring!

xx