Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you want to do something special—but also something a little different than the usual dinner and a movie. Whether you’re newly dating, engaged, or have been married for years (yes, even with kids!), finding intentional time together is so important.

So, if you’re looking to shake things up a bit, here are five unique date ideas in Tuscaloosa that go beyond the usual! And, because I believe love at every stage is worth celebrating, I’m adding a little bonus idea at the end—one that will let you hold onto these moments forever.

1. Sunset Picnic by the Black Warrior River

Tuscaloosa is home to some seriously stunning views, and the Black Warrior River at sunset is *chef’s kiss* perfect. Pack a picnic (or grab takeout from your favorite local spot), bring a cozy blanket, and just enjoy each other’s company as the sun sets over the water. Want to add a little extra fun? Bring a deck of conversation cards or a journal to jot down your favorite memories together. Or if you want to make things extra special, check out Picnic Vibes Tuscaloosa and have them set up a luxury picnic for you!

2. Couples’ Cooking Class at Cleaver & Clove

If you and your partner love food (and honestly, who doesn’t?), a cooking class is a fun and interactive way to spend time together. Cleaver & Clove in Tuscaloosa offers occasional tastings and classes where you can learn how to create delicious dishes together. It’s a hands-on experience that ends with amazing food—win-win! (I’m seriously considering this for my husband and myself!)

3. Strolling Through the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk

This one is simple, but so underrated. The Riverwalk is a peaceful and scenic place to just walk, talk, and slow down. Grab a coffee from Heritage House or Monarch Espresso Bar beforehand, hold hands, and enjoy the fresh air. (Bonus points if you can find a quiet spot and slow dance for a moment—just for fun and to remember those first days of just the two of you.)

I personally highly recommend doing this. When my husband and I were dating and engaged, we were living in New Orleans, and most of the time our dates were walking around City Park, just talking and walking. I cherish those days and honestly miss them because when you have little ones, it’s hard to talk with each other. And I mean really talk – sharing your heart, hopes, dreams, and struggles with the one you’ve chosen to spend your life with. Those are sweet moments.

4. Take a Pottery or Art Class Together

Get creative and a little messy with a hands-on pottery or art class! Places like Still Fired Up in Northport offer couples’ painting sessions or pottery nights, which is such a fun way to do something totally out of the ordinary. Even if your artwork turns out looking like a five-year-old made it, you’ll have a keepsake from the night and a lot of laughs.

5. Brewery or Wine Tasting Tour

For couples who love to explore new flavors together, check out a local brewery or winery. Druid City Brewing Co. has a laid-back vibe with local brews, and if you’re up for a little road trip, a visit to a vineyard like Morgan Creek Winery in Harpersville, Alabama makes for a romantic day trip.

Bonus: Capture the Moment with a Couples’ Photoshoot

Okay, hear me out—when was the last time you and your partner had real photos taken together? Not a selfie. Not a family Christmas card. Just the two of you, celebrating your love as it is right now?

A couples’ photoshoot isn’t just for newly engaged lovebirds—it’s for any stage of marriage, whether you’re in the honeymoon phase or you’ve been chasing toddlers around for years, or you’re empty-nesters. Love grows, deepens, and changes, and it’s so important to document that.

So, what if instead of a regular date night, you did something really different this year? Imagine having an evening where you get dressed up, spend intentional time together, and have it all captured in beautiful, timeless images you can treasure forever. (And trust me, these photos will be so much more meaningful than another generic Valentine’s gift!)

If that sounds like your kind of date night, let’s make it happen. I’d love to plan a stress-free, joy-filled session that captures your love story—whether that’s playful, romantic, silly, or all of the above.

However you choose to celebrate, I hope it’s filled with love, laughter, and meaningful moments. 💛

P.S. If a couples’ session is calling your name, let’s chat! I’d love to help bring your vision to life.