5 Date Ideas If Your Partner’s Love Language Is Acts Of Service

Love languages are an important element of compatibility, from Acts of Service to Quality Time. Everyone wants to make their partner feel special and many are turning to the internet to find out how. Dates help couples show their affection and are integral to any romantic relationship. They foster communication, increase feelings of intimacy, and prevent partners from taking each other for granted. No matter how much time you spend planning a date, if it doesn’t align with your partner’s dominant love language, your romantic intentions may not shine through.

What are Love Languages?

In his New York Times bestseller, The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts, marriage counselor Gary Chapman established the following five love languages:

1. Quality time
2. Words of affirmation
3. Acts of service
4. Physical touch
5. Receiving gifts

According to Chapman, the secret to a strong relationship is understanding how to make a partner feel loved. This rests on speaking their  “love language”—  how they express and experience love. 

Defining the Acts of Service Love Language

If a home-cooked meal, help running errands, and coming home to a clean house makes your partner swoon, it’s safe to assume that their love language is ‘Acts of Service’. The 20% of people who identify with this non-verbal love language feel most appreciated when other people do things for them. 

Five Date Ideas for Acts of Service

While this form of love can be time-consuming, the effort is well worth it if it’s what your partner needs. Here are five great date ideas for if your partner’s love language is Acts of Service. 

1. Cook them dinner 

Food and love are inexorably linked and if you cook your partner dinner, you’ll find out why. After a long day at work, your partner will be more than thankful to come home to a delicious home-cooked meal. Throw in some candles, music, and other decors to create an unforgettably romantic “private dining” experience.

2. Give them a massage

Fun Fact: Massage therapy increases feelings of affection and intimacy by releasing oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine in the body. What better way to bond with your significant other? Plus, a massage is a perfect way to help your partner unwind. Showing that you care about your partner’s wellbeing is a great way to show your affection if their primary love language is acts of service. 

3. DIY date

Has your partner been putting off a simple household project? Make a date out of it. While painting the walls or gardening may not be your idea of romance, this date idea will speak volumes if your partner speaks in acts of service. Throw one of these playlists to set the mood while you get to work! 

4. Hit the grocery store

Who says a date can’t be fun and productive? Get creative with this one. Come prepared with a shopping list and clues and create your own little grocery scavenger hunt. Be sure to pick up some chocolates and wine to share to add an element of romance.  

5. Make dinner reservations

This one seems basic, but if your partner’s love language is acts of service, the last thing they want to do is coordinate plans by themself. A small gesture, like booking a reservation at their favorite restaurant is the perfect way to express your love.  If you have kids, arrange a babysitter, and take care of their baths, dinner, and diaper change before you leave so that your partner doesn’t have to.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

If your partner’s love language is Acts of Service, anything that makes their life easier will make them feel appreciated. If you hear your significant other complaining about a simple chore or talking about how stressed they feel, make a date out of it — opportunities to show your affection are everywhere. Don’t miss out.