Well it looks like we're going to be at home for a while. With the unfortunate continued surges of COVID-19, the safest option in most places is to stay home to stay safe. And if you're like us, you're running out of shows to binge on Netflix. And really, although it's a way to kill some time, it doesn't necessarily foster connection. Our favorite thing recently is to grab takeout from one of our favorite local restaurants and have a candlelit dinner in the dining room. However, we're getting a little stir crazy, so we've been getting a little more creative! Here are eight ways that you can still get in a Date Night and support local businesses, without leaving the comfort of your home.
1. DIY Project
No, this is not remodeling your guest bathroom. I'm talking much smaller scale. Paint some pottery, create a piece of art, make face masks, whatever you choose. Also, several companies are offering DIY kits of their products. We recently picked up a DIY Candle Kit from our favorite local candle maker Untamed Supply. We poured some wine, whipped up a charcuterie board, and made candles. It was so much fun, and we even had enough supplies left over for a family fun day the following afternoon.
2. Spa Day
Oh how I wish I could spend the day at a spa, getting pampered by a team of professionals. But most spas have not been able to return to full service just yet. Luckily, a lot of estheticians and med spas have been offering at home solutions. Aestheticare in Leawood has been putting together At Home Spa Kits that are perfect for a little pampering with your sweetie.
3. Museum Tour
To live in Kansas City is to know and love the Nelson Atkins Museum. Sadly, one of our favorite date night spots is still closed to the public. However, they are now offering ways to visit virtually on their website. Pour a cocktail, grab a snack, log on, and explore at your own pace.
4. Be The Bartender
Prior to COVID: “Ma’am, you have to finish that glass of wine; you can’t take it with you.” During COVID: “Here’s a bucket of margaritas that we will gladly bring out to your car for you to drive home to your couch.” Yes, that’s right, some of our local bars and distilleries have found ways to get your favorite cocktails straight into your homes for you to safely enjoy. Mean Mule Distilling Co. is offering online ordering and home delivery of their cocktail kits and bottles. Then, you can go to their Instagram as they share great cocktail options to help you mix it up while we all stay at home.
5. Dessert Tasting
My personal favorite. The possibilities are endless here, and you can have fun trying. Pick your favorite bakery, load up a box of goodies, and bring them home for a tasting event. Dolce Bakery is offering online ordering and no contact pickup, so you can pick your treats virtually too!
6. Build Your Own Charcuterie Board
Shatto Milk Company is a KC staple. Many of us are used to buying their milk in our grocery stores, but they also offer home delivery. And not just milk! Through their online ordering, you can get produce, bread, prepared meals, and pantry staples, all from local farmers and makers. From the variety of options, you can build your own charcuterie board of local meats, cheeses, honey, crackers, the works! All delivered to your front porch with no contact. Pour the wine, put on the KC Jazz, and enjoy!
7. Beer Tasting
Is there any beer better than Kansas City beer? It would be too controversial to pick a favorite, so you can keep that to yourself. But our local breweries are offering a variety of ways to enjoy them from home. You can order online from your top spot and pickup your favorites and have a tasting event from your living room. If you want more variety, you can order online from Bier Station and sample from several local breweries, hosting your own bar crawl from the comfort of your couch.
8. Movie Night
Yea, I know you’ve probably been doing this one a lot. But there’s actually another way to do this, and to support a local business at the same time. Movie theaters have been hit hard by the lack of traffic into their spaces. But our beloved Screenland Armour has been innovating some great ways to enjoy and support them without sitting in one of their cushy seats. One such offering is Screenland Online, your resource for virtual screening rooms. They are offering a variety of movies that you can “check out” and view, without ever leaving your home.
I hope that you found some inspiration in these ideas and that you find some ways to switch up your routine. In the meantime, stay happy, stay healthy, and stay safe.
