Ballard Sunday Market

Want a fresh, fun way to try something new together on a beautiful Sunday afternoon? Spend a lovely afternoon out at the Ballard Sunday Market any Sunday of the year – rain or shine! From 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. the old historic road is lined with vendors and all of the small boutiques and restaurants that already line the streets are open as well! Head down together (& bring your dog if you have one) and walk up and down the vendors enjoying everything from handmade soaps, juices, fruits & vegetables, meats, jewelry, hats, flowers, & more! Head to Ballard (or their more recent sister market in Fremont) with just a little bit of money in hand. Figure out how you can make a meal with the money you have, then buy some vegetables, meat, & some pasta and get your creative juices flowing by spending the evening cooking back at home. Cooking for a few hours can be really fun & a way to have some quality time together talking. Buy a new type of cheese while you are at the market and snack on that while you are cooking as an appetizer. Have fun working together, laughing together, & doing dishes together. It’s something fun to do that doesn’t cost much. Maybe even set up the table with a few flowers that you purchase & put on some fun music in the background! Eat up!

What to Wear:

Ladies: Be comfortable! Wear something that works for

being in the sun, but since you are close to the canal plan for a little wind as well with the scarf (and that is why I am recommending a knee-length skirt or longer!) Add a little color with an easy-to-carry cross body bag. Put on some boots that can keep you a little warm and also be comfortable to walk in. This outfit will be comfortable for working in the kitchen as well!

Men: Be casual & comfortable as well. Throw on some boat sho

es with your jeans & a short-sleeve shirt so you can be comfortable outdoors and indoors. A jacket that can be thrown overtop might be a good idea for when you are at the market incase it’s chilly in the shaded areas! Try some of these neutral shades – brown is really a great color!

Olympic Sculpture Park

Springtime in Seattle can bring a mixed bag of rain, sunshine, clouds, or a combination of all three within minutes. If you are looking for a fun date, but the the weather outside is looking indecisive, try visiting the Olympic Sculpture Park, located right next to downtown Seattle on the waterfront. Open 365 days a year, the park is operated under the direction of the Seattle Art Museum. There are nine acres of open lawn and walkways filled with fun and interesting art pieces to enjoy. As Seattle's last piece of undeveloped waterfront, the park was finally turned into an art exhibit in 1999 by the Seattle Art Museum. A full list of park hours can be viewed online at www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/osp. The best thing about this date is that it's free! If you want to make a picnic lunch out of it, bring along a cooler full of goodies, or grab some treats at nearby Pike Place.

What makes this waterfront getaway so great is all the art to explore, and if you're a photographer, you will definitely enjoy making this a fun, out-of-the-ordinary date for the two of you. Whether you're a photography geek, or just looking for something different to do, pictures are fun to take, not to mention a great reminder of good times with your sweetheart. Many couples take their wedding photos or engagement photos among the sculptures at the park, however this can also make for a fun casual date as well. Either sun or rain will create a great atmosphere for creative photography, and if it rains just bring along an umbrella to keep you dry and add a touch of whimsy to your pictures for the two of you to look back on.


What to Wear:
Ladies
Be sure to dress according to the weather, since you will be outside. But keep your wardrobe fresh and fun, you want to wear something that will look artsy and stand out in photographs. If the sun is shining, wear a fun, springy floral print like the dress on the right with some canvas oxfords. Accessorize minimally, and leave your purse at home, you won't need much to carry around with you walking around the park and taking pictures. If it is raining outside, wear some skinny jeans tucked into boots, with a bright tank and distressed blazer for a grungier, rainy day look.

Guys
We love this look channeled by indie cutie Jim Sturgess. You want to be able to stay comfortable and casual, but still look sharp. Pair a classic plaid shirt with a leather motorcycle jacket and some nicer, dark wash jeans. Some casual shoes like TOMS will complete the look and keep you comfortable while looking great!

A Sweet Deal

Dinner and a movie is a combination that is one of the most classic date scenarios you could imagine! However, with the cost of movie theaters and restaurant prices these days, an evening like this could easily cost you $50 (and this is just at the minimum level!) Even though your girl is worth it, you can have a lot more fun spending a lot less with this idea of dessert and a movie; an updated twist on this classic date.

You don’t have to dine together—meet up a little later and go out to dessert. Just dessert is much less spend-y than ordering a full meal, and often portion sizes are large enough to share which cuts the cost in half too. We have several locations around Seattle that we recommend. Simply Desserts in Fremont is one of the Pacific Northwest’s top rated bakeries and offers a variety treats by the slice. I don’t know that it’s possible to go wrong here! The Dahlia Lounge downtown on 4th avenue has a white chocolate coconut cream pie that is to die for. If you are cheesecake lovers, up a ways on 7th avenue is the Cheesecake Factory, which is always a classic. However, these are just a few suggestions. The possibilities are endless. Get out and try somewhere new!

Afterwards, head back to your (or her) place with a movie to watch. Renting a film is without doubt much less expensive than being in a theater. You won’t be limited to times and selections that a particular theater is hosting, and plus you have the comfort of your own home and given the chance to cuddle up on the couch! Let her choose the movie--even if it means you as the guy will have to sit through another romantic comedy. Maybe brew up a couple mugs of coffee and grab some blankets and you will be set.

The wardrobe options are pretty open on this one, but ladies, here are a few suggestions that we have for you. As you may have noticed, boyfriend style jeans are popping up everywhere! They are definitely one of the season’s hottest styles, so don a pair for this date--you won't have to worry about feeling fat after eating those sweet treats because the leg and waist are both loose! When it comes to the denim, a bit of a destroyed or weathered look can be fun, like the paint streaked ones we have found. However, this is not at all necessary. Roll up the cuffs casually to show off a fun pair of high heels such as these peep toe sandal heels (which can be kicked off at a moment's notice to snuggle up later!) You can bring it all together with a cute top and coordinating cardigan. For this date, you don’t need much in your bag, so a simple clutch will be fine. Feel free to accessorize with jewelry—we like the gold, almost antique look of these pieces featured here.

As for the dudes, the look is pretty open and casual for you as well. Maybe try a lightweight sweater or cardigan. It is good to keep in mind that you can never really go wrong with v-necks or stripes. Sweaters are always a great staple item to have in your wardrobe because of how easily they can be dressed both up and down depending on what you are going for. In addition, they are highly comfortable and appropriate for many different occasions! For this occasion, you can dress it down more. Notice how the ones shown here are paired with contrasting colored crew necks underneath—we love this look! Stay comfy with your favorite pair of jeans and some shoes to tie it all together. Again, you can achieve an effortless but put together look without looking like you tried too hard.

Dancing the Night Away

Every girl loves to dance at heart. Whether it’s a girl who has always been graceful on the dance floor or a girl who has “two left feet”, sometimes it feels good just to dance. Now I know that going dancing is often intimidating for men because they themselves know how terrible they may be at dancing and do not want to show they have a weakness in front of a woman. Well here is the truth. If a girl wants to go dancing she will not be judging you on how well you can dance. I think that the true test for a dancing man is how well he can keep his cool while messing up. If a guy can’t dance but is a good sport about the whole experience no girl is going to be upset when her foot gets stepped on every once in a while – just laugh it off!

So, my proposal is to take your girl out dancing. It only has to be a one night thing if it one time is enough. But guys, remember that by taking your girl out to dance it just means you are forcing her to dress up & be extra adorable for the night! So even if you hate the experience you got to spend the night with a beautiful woman. Pick her up after dinner & wait downstairs on the couch while she takes 25 extra minutes to get ready just for you. Then head downtown to century ballroom for a night of lessons & then some freestyle. Their lessons usually start around 8 or 9 depending on the night. Each night there is a different style of dance – so choose what you are comfortable with. Choose from salsa, swing, waltz, square dancing, & more. Go for the lessons and you will get personal instruction from a professional on exactly how to do the moves. You will be surrounded by other people who are there to learn so no pressure – have a good time! After the lesson is when the experienced people begin to show up & it will be fun to watch them & give a good try yourself in the midst of the unbelievable dancers. The great thing about is that it costs less than $10 a person and the fun goes on for hours – sounds pretty affordable to me!

Check out Century Ballroom's Schedule here: http://centuryballroom.com/

What to Wear:

Ladies: Like I said, this is a night for you to impress your guy and get dolled-up! Though you may want to spend the night in comfy jeans and a t-shirt – throw on a dress and heels and really go all out! Here is a great dress for dancing - it is a great dress that will have a great swing to it out on the dance floor! With the ties on the side the dress cinches the waist, which is always flattering & since it is sleeveless you won’t get too warm once it gets crowded and you are moving around! Add a great pair of heels so you can stand tall and lengthen your legs! Add some great sparkle and jingle in some accessories to add movement when you are dancing. A great trench is great for when you are walking to the car after a night of dancing – you will be so warm inside the ballroom that going outside will feel extremely cold without a jacket. A trench that matches the length of the dress or is a little bit longer is great because then it doesn’t necessarily need to match the dress! Add a great clutch if you need to bring anything along and a cute headband with a simple bow if you need to hold back your bangs for the dance floor!

Guys: If your lady is putting a lot of effort into her outfit you should too. Don't try too hard - no tuxedo is necessary! But, it would be nice to wear some slacks if you have them, or at least a nice, dark pair of jeans. Add on some nice shoes and a button down shirt - maybe even a sweater over it if you are feeling daring! If you want to do the look Pharrel is showing here, just add a sports coat overtop for when you are outdoors.

Seattle Art Museum

One thing that is apparent in everything from the city’s street fashion to public markets to the local colleges is that Seattle is an incredibly artsy city. For this reason, the Seattle Art Museum is something that all can enjoy, and what better way to experience this than WITH someone you enjoy? Wander the different exhibits and you will notice that so much inspiration and discussion can come about from looking at art. As a couple it can be a great way to build your relationship and partake in something outside of the norm; it not only offers a different perspective on dating but a different perspective on your partner as well. In addition, in rainy Seattle, indoor dates are so much more realistic and this is a great indoor date idea!

Starting in May, the SAM will be featuring “love fear pleasure lust pain glamour death” by Andy Warhol, which promises to be an excellent exhibit. It runs in tandem with “Kurt” which is a collection of work highlighting the influence of famous Seattle grunge musician Kurt Cobain. If you are looking for a taste of Seattle art, you will not come any closer than this! In the meantime before these exhibits open, be sure to check out Imogen Cunningham’s work, especially if you two are into photography. Feel free to even bring your own cameras in and capture the inspiration you are feeling. It would even be fun upon leaving the museum to get out into the city and try to create some art of your own together!

While museum rates can often be a bit pricey, every first Thursday of the month the museum is free to the public, making this date completely affordable! The only expense to worry about is transportation. The Chase Center garage nearby the museum will validate parking—you will only have to pay $6 for five hours! However, the public transportation in Seattle is pretty great and busses can get you most anywhere you want to go, especially downtown! Check out Seattle Metro’s website for more info. Riding the bus in Seattle is always an adventure and can build memories and experiences in your relationship.

Men-it's time to tap into your artsy side and express it through your fashion! While this may seem complicated or unknown, it actually can be achieved easily with the help of a vest and button down shirt. Notice the different combinations off to the left: with or without a tie, buttoned or open—you have some freedom here. Just be sure that your shirt and vest coordinate—mixing of crazy prints and pinstripes or something of the sort is not the way to be artsy here! Throw in a pair of dark wash denim jeans and you will look effortlessly great.

Women feel free to go all out on this one! Start off with a great dress. This should be the standout piece. Try for something that channels an artsy vibe, something you may not necessarily wear all that often. Pair it with some simple tights and a low heel that will be comfortable for standing. In the look here you will notice that the accessorizing has been kept to a minimum. With a dress as loud as that, you don’t need to do much to dress it up; it speaks for itself. Perhaps a simple headband or pair of earrings is enough.Together these outfits will make you feel like an elegant couple as you stroll along admiring the artwork, setting the mood for a fabulous art museum date! Since art and fashion go hand in hand, the wardrobing for this date can be especially fun.

Rock and Roll Fun

So, you want to check out the Seattle music scene but our earlier post about Jazz Alley didn’t quite fit for you, or you're looking to branch out into something different. Well, luckily there are plenty of other affordable and fun options around the area! As an avid concert-goer, I have been able to experience a wide variety of concert settings and assess the benefits and downsides to each in terms of a date setting. My conclusion awaits below.

Chop Suey on East Madison street is a unique and wonderful venue. Fairly small, the place offers a very intimate setting to see bands really up close and personal. The décor creates a funky atmosphere. Because most of the shows are 21+ the crowd seems to be more mature—no minors or middle schoolers that often crowd the floor. In addition, the types of bands that come through Chop Suey vary in genre—everything from hip hop and DJs to alternative rock and indie, electronic, local unseen talent, even comedy shows. Tickets start as low as $7 which ranks pretty well on our scale of affordability! Check the website www.chopsuey.com for a full concert calendar lineup. If it fits into your schedule I highly recommend April 22^nd‘s Fences show (tickets are sold day of show at the door making this a perfect spontaneous date night choice).

Seeing a show at Chop Suey—or any concert— is not recommended for the very first date. The noise level makes it impossible to have those first date conversations, and without knowing the person very well it can be a bit awkward. However, for couples that have been dating for a while, seeing a show can be a great way to break out of a typical date routine when seemingly stuck in a rut. You will be at the level in your relationship where you can communicate without necessarily talking, and will feel no inhibitions about dancing together as the music moves you!

Guys: you may assume that a Seattle concert calls for some silly hipster outfit involving skinny jeans and flannel. Don’t worry! You will do just fine with a looser waist, more boot-cut style of denim—go for a black or grey wash if possible. A clean but plain white t-shirt will be a nice contrast. Notice how Johnny Depp stylishly wears his in the featured photograph! See if you can also channel his look in the styling of accessories. The leather and chain jewelry when used in moderation with a fun hat will show that you are ready to rock and roll in style, but paired with the simplicity of the white shirt and jeans will not be over the top.

As fior the ladies, we have conceptualized your look below. Concerts allow you to break away from your typical style and dress in a more edgy and different way. I always base my concert outfits off of the shoes. Go for your most comfortable pair that have the highest elevation—it comes in handy for seeing over the many heads in the crowd, yet you don’t want to kill yourself standing in heels all night. You’ll also want them to be durable and closed toed in case you get stepped on in the crowded setting. A low boot like the one pictured is a happy medium and gives you a sexy rock and roll vibe. Try pairing a screen print tank with some tight, black skinny pants. The tank top is great because crowded indoor venues can get stuffy and hot. However, you will want a jacket for standing in line at the doors and after, so try a modern, feminine take on a leather jacket. A scarf adds a pop of color to make it easier for your guy to spot you in the crowd if need be. Just throw in some fun coordinating jewelry and you’ve got an outfit! You will notice that it doesn’t include a handbag or purse of any kind—ditch that at home! They are burdensome to hold at in crowds shows, and your pockets should be able to hold the minimum that you need.

Give Back To Seattle by Volunteering!

Rather than spend money going out on a typical date with your girlfriend or boyfriend, why not give back to the beautiful city of Seattle instead. It is hard to keep Seattle so beautiful and running smoothly when there aren't volunteers to help do so! So, why not get out and enjoy spending some time in a beautiful park or help with the P-Patch garden plot program. There are also many places downtown, including places like the YWCA or Food Banks, that could be a good indoor option. If going for a more medical focus there is always the Seattle Children's Hospital or Swedish Medical Center, both which may require some training and a more long-term commitment. Also, if you have a desire to volunteer on a more regular basis there are options like Woodland Park Zoo or many different Animal Shelters in the area.

Why Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to spend time together and not money. It always feels good to give back to the community in any way, big or small. It gives the opportunity of meeting new people, learning new things, and going new places. It also gives the opportunity to move around and have good conversation with each other and other volunteers.

What to Wear: Ladies: No need to dress up at all and wear clothes that can get dirty. One major thing is to make sure to layer - especially if you will be volunteering outdoors or will be doing manual labor. Layers give you the ability to be prepared for all weather & outdoor conditions. Throw on some sneakers and some appropriate jean shorts and a headband to keep your hair back!

Guys: Same goes for you - throw on some layers and some sneakers and you are good to go! Make sure that your outfit can handle some paint, some dirt, & some wear-and-tear if you will be working outside at all! Something like this is easy enough for a day of volunteering!

After a long day of working together head back home and watch a movie while relaxing on the couch. If there are no good movies at home, stop by a Red-Box and get a movie you haven't heard of before. If the movie is terrible it won't be too big of a deal - the movie will have only cost you a dollar! (Just don't forget to return it the next day). If you don't have the energy to make dinner at home, grab some chinese take-out on your way back to watch in front of the tv!

Night at Jazz Alley

Who doesn't like jazz, right? If you're looking for something fun and new to do, and maybe haven't explored the Seattle music scene to much extent, Dimitriou's Jazz Alley (2033 6th Ave) is just the place for a romantic night on the town. The good news is, it really is possible to enjoy some good music without breaking the budget. For couples who just want to sample some good Seattle beats, or for music lovers looking for a fun first date, there are popular jazz performers featured monthly at this great venue.

For hardcore jazz fans, and also those who just want to try something new, Jazz Alley offers a full schedule of artist lineups on their website (jazzalley.com). Most ticket prices range from $20 to $30, however this month will be featuring Antonio Hart and Lisa Henry with the LACHSA Jazz Sextet for a complimentary show on the 26th of April. While there is no cover charge, reservations are required and can be made online.

The venue also features dining options for those looking for dinner and a show. Entrees can be pricier, so go for some appetizers from their menu to keep the night simple. Another idea for some delicious dining that will cost less is one of the nearby sushi restaurant's reasonable happy hour prices for either a before, or after-show dinner. Umi Sake House (umisakehouse.com) features happy hour prices from 4-6 pm everyday, and also from 11 pm- 1am Sunday - Thursday. Red Fin Sushi (redfinsushi.com) also features a good happy hour selection from 4-6 pm and 10-11pm daily.


What to Wear:

LADIES
Keep it simple and classy with a little black dress. A simple a-line look is oh-so chic and can be dressed up or down based on your preference. Bold statement necklaces and cocktail rings make for a really fun outfit when paired with a simple, vintage looking black dress. Patent pumps and a retro floral clutch add a classic, feminine touch. Red lipstick is the perfect pair for this trendy, vintage-inspired look.

GUYS
Don't be afraid to dress up a little, but don't get too fussy. Some basic, casual slacks or cords will do, paired with a simple button-down shirt. Add a skinny tie for a fun, retro look and you're good to go! A classic blazer or double breasted pea coat will look polished and also keep you warm if the weather is chilly.

An Evening at the Park

It’s not exactly a secret in Seattle that Kerry Park is one of the city’s best kissing locations! High up on top of the Queen Anne hill, Kerry Park offers a panoramic view of the downtown Seattle city skyline, Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, Bainbridge Island, and the West Seattle peninsula. With the stars out and the city all lit up at night, there is no doubt this romantic setting will offer a great evening. However, other attractions at the park include an interesting sculpture and playground with not just your typical swing sets and slides which can make the date a little more playful if desired. A walk or trip to Kerry Park is a pretty typical—what makes this date special is a little something extra. Compile a playlist of your favorite love songs—they could be ones that mean something to you as a couple, or just ones that fit with the preferred genre of music you two listen to. Then, upload it to your iPod. As you sit taking in the breathtaking view, share the headphones and listen to the songs. Who knows, it might even inspire a little bit of moonlight dancing!

To help you get started on your playlist we have alphabetically below listed some great love songs that span several different musical genres:

“All of My Days” – Alexi Murdoch
“Better Together” – Jack Johnson
“Bless the Broken Road” – Rascal Flats
“Brand New Colony – The Postal Service
“Brighter than Sunshine” – Aqualung
“City Love” – John Mayer
“Closer” – Keb Mo
“Come Away With Me” – Norah Jones
“Everything” – Michael Buble
“Funny Little Frog” – Belle and Sebastian
“Is This Love” – Bob Marley
“It’s Your Love” – Tim McGraw and Faith Hill
“Lucky” – Colbie Callait and Jason Mraz
“My Sweet Rose” – Matt Costa
“Need You Now” – Lady Antebellum
“No One’s Gonna Love You” – Band of Horses
“Offering” – the Avett Brothers
“Sea of Love” – Cat Power
“Something” – the Beatles
“Yellow” – Coldplay If you leave it at this, the date can be complete just as so without spending any money at all! However, if you are hungry and looking for some inexpensive yet delicious food, The 5 Spot Cafe just up the hill is a great choice! After 10PM this favorite Seattle eatery offers a menu full of delicious $5 features. It’s also always a unique experience—each season the restaurant changes themes so it will always be a new dining experience!

When it comes to the outfit, presumably an evening date in Seattle is going to be cold, or even in the spring and summer, chilly at least. This means that ladies will need to layer up! A cute ho odie is a great cozy option over some basics—you’ll notice in the look we have complied here the pop of color with coordinating shoes is a fun way to play up your everyday hoodie. Jeans and a hat will give you warmth as well. You will be looking cute and cozy and ready to cuddle!

As for the guys, because this is a more romantic and classy date, we suggest that your outfit channels the same vibe. Break away from the blue jeans for just a night to go dressier. Slacks are not a must--a simple pair of slim leg pants in a non-denim fabric or even a pair of khaki pants will do. As far as outerwear goes, we recommend a nice wool jacket. A pea coat will not only keep you warm, but it will also dress you up stylishly. A tie like the one seen on the left is optional. However, keep in mind that your girl is never going to complain about you being TOO dressed up so you might as well go all out--dress to impress!