unique ways to say i love you for the first time

Falling in love is one of the best feelings in the world. It's profound, it's powerful, and it can be very hard not to shout it from the rooftops. But when the feelings are this strong, they can have the effect of making you feel especially vulnerable when it comes to expressing them. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to say “I love you” for the first time . It's really just about picking the way that feels right to you and then going for it.

It's not uncommon for the three little words to just slip out spontaneously , which, honestly, is just awesome as anything planned because it comes from the heart. That said, there's also nothing wrong with having a plan to open up and let someone know how you're feeling and it doesn't hurt to add a little romance to the moment while you're at it. So, if you're ready to drop the L-bomb on your partner and aren't sure how to go about it, here are some ideas to help inspire you for the big moment. You can take them just as they are or put your own personal spin on them. Either way, it's all about love.

Picture this, you're all snuggled up and cozy with your special someone as you're drifting off to sleep. You may be thinking, "Wow, I feel so safe and in love right now." That's why this can be such an ideal moment to say how you're feeling. You're both relaxed and feeling connected, and you can sleep on it if one (or both) of you needs a moment to process the big step you've taken.

Want to both show and say “I love you” at the same time? There's nothing like breakfast in bed to spoil and pamper someone, and adding a little note just to say what's in your heart will make this an extra-special morning meal to remember .

Want to add a little drama and class to your moment? Take them out for a great dinner somewhere they enjoy. Show them that you both care and know them ; that way, when you say how you feel, they can see, feel, and (in this case) even taste it.

Is your sweetie getting all steamed up in the shower (solo or with you )? Take advantage of all that steam and write them a special little message either on the shower glass or the mirror. A simple "I <3 U" should do the trick.

If you're feeling the sparks fly in your heart, then a sparkler might be the cutest way to express what you're feeling. Head outside with your sweetie after the sun sets and light up a sparkler . Use it to write in the air and the image will linger just long enough for them to get the point.

If you think walking on the beach with someone you love is romantic, try writing on it. Let your loved one know just how much you care with a sweet and simple message that can be seen and then swept out to sea. See, I told you this was especially romantic.

Not quite ready to say those three little words yourself? Let the best music writers and singers do the work for you. Make your love a special Spotify playlist full of songs that are sentimental to the two of you, then top it off with a track that directly says all the things you want to say, but are too nervous or shy to.

Have you ever reached into your pocket and found a $20 bill you forgot was in there? Now imagine that feeling, excerpt instead of cash you get the priceless message of knowing that you're loved . Yeah, pretty amazing. This is why you may want to consider slipping a special little "I love you" note into your partner's pocket, or somewhere else they're likely to discover it, to let them know how you're feeling.

If you want to say it to their face but are nervous to say it out loud, shoot them a quick text to express what's in your heart. Bonus points if they're in the room and you can watch them receive it and reply. Don’t forget to add a few emojis.

While there's no shortage of cute and creative ways to tell someone you love them, the best approach is sometimes the simplest. In a quiet moment when you feel that love coming from you, simply look your special someone in the eye and tell them, “I love you.” It's powerful, direct, and special in its purity.

Saying you love someone for the first time is a big deal because there's always a risk that those feelings won't be returned — and that’s OK. Not every love story has that happily ever after ending. But there's nothing wrong with saying how you feel. And when it's right and that person reciprocates, well, there's just about no better feeling in the world. When you're ready to say I love you, go for it, and do it in the way that feels the most special and right to you.

120 Creative Ways To Say I Love You

So, have you ever found yourself wanting to express your love in a way that’s a little more unique, a bit more special? You know, something beyond the typical “I love you” ?

You’re not alone. We’ve all been there, wanting to express our love in a meaningful way but unsure of how to do it.

But don’t worry, friend, because I’ve got your back. In this article, we’re going to dive into the wonderful world of expressing love.

From the sweet and romantic to all sorts of ways to say those three little words that mean so much. We’re talking about finding those charming, heartfelt, funny and creative ways to say “I love you” to that special someone in your life.

Because let’s face it, love is something extraordinary, so why not express it in extraordinary ways? Let’s dive in.

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Creative Ways To Say I love You

❤️ You’re always in my thoughts.

❤️ Your happiness brings me joy too.

❤️ You’re my perfect match.

❤️ Spending time with you is my favorite thing.

❤️ You’re my partner in crime, anytime, anywhere.

❤️ How about a call instead of texting? Texting feels so distant nowadays!

❤️ When do I get to see you again?

❤️ Being with you feels like being at home.

❤️ Thank you for completing me.

❤️ There are countless reasons to love you, and it’s all about you.

❤️ I’m here for you, no matter what.

❤️ You’re the dream I’ve always wished for.

❤️ You always bring a smile to my face.

❤️ My life wouldn’t be the same without you.

❤️ We’re a perfect match.

❤️ No one else makes me feel as special as you do.

❤️ We’re meant to be together.

❤️ You make me go wild.

❤️ I can’t get enough of you.

❤️ You mean everything to me.

❤️ The excitement I feel inside tells me they love you too.

Romantic Ways To Say I Love You

❤️ You complete me.

❤️ You make me incredibly happy.

❤️ I love you so much.

❤️ I’d be lost without you.

❤️ You give me goosebumps!

❤️ Seeing you fills my heart with love.

❤️ I love you a lot.

❤️ I’m nobody without you.

❤️ You’re always on my mind.

❤️ I’m deeply in love with you.

Cute Ways To Say I Love You

❤️ You brighten my day like the sun does.

❤️ I’m crazy about you!

❤️ Where would I be without you?

❤️ I’ve fallen hard for you.

❤️ I’m head over heels for you.

❤️ “I love spending time with you endlessly.”

❤️ Loving you comes naturally.

❤️ I love you very much.

❤️ “If I loved you any less, I’d talk about it more,” —Emma.

Ways To Say I Love You To Him

❤️ Darling, you have my heart.

❤️ I’ll always love you.

❤️ I can’t do without you.

❤️ I’ve never felt this connected with anyone else.

❤️ You’re the only one for me.

❤️ Your love leaves me breathless.

❤️ There’s nothing I dislike about you.

❤️ My love for you is eternal.

❤️ I want to spend forever with you.

❤️ I’m so happy I found you.

❤️ You make my world amazing.

❤️ You bring my world to life.

❤️ “Your happiness makes me happy.”

❤️ You make my heart race.

❤️ I’m all yours, forever.

❤️ “I love you just the way you are.”

❤️ I’m lucky to have you.

❤️ Hold my hand tight, never let go.

❤️ “I can see us growing old together.”

❤️ My heart belongs to you always.

❤️ Give me that beautiful smile.

❤️ I enjoy planning our future.

❤️ “How can I love you better?”

❤️ I feel most myself with you.

Ways To Say I Love You To Her

❤️ I’ll always be here for you, rain or shine.

❤️ You’re my forever love.

❤️ You bring immense joy into my life.

❤️ I’d do anything for you.

❤️ You’re my biggest supporter.

❤️ You’re the missing piece of my puzzle.

❤️ I love you more than anything.

❤️ I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.

❤️ I love you more than I can say.

❤️ I’d give you the world.

❤️ Loving you is effortless.

❤️ You’ve got my heart.

❤️ I want to grow old with you.

❤️ “I’d do anything to make you smile.”

❤️ You’re my world.

Cute Ways To Say I Love You In A Text

❤️ I can’t live without you.

❤️ I’m so proud you’re mine!

❤️ I love our life together.

❤️ You’re my sunshine!

❤️ I love everything about you.

❤️ You make me want to be better.

❤️ You’re precious to me.

❤️ Please stay with me forever.

❤️ “It’s okay if you fall, I’ll catch you.” —Taylor Jenkins Reid, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Poetic Ways To Say I Love You

❤️ You are the melody to my heart’s song.

❤️ You are the poetry my soul longs to recite.

❤️ My love for you blooms like a flower in spring.

❤️ With every breath, I whisper your name to the stars.

❤️ My love for you flows like an eternal river, constant and unwavering.

❤️ “Just in case you ever foolishly forget, I’m never not thinking of you.”—Virginia Woolf,  Selected Diaries

❤️ “I yearn for you.”

❤️ “So it’s not gonna be easy. It’s going to be really hard; we’re gonna have to work at this every day , but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, every day. You and me… every day.” — The Notebook

❤️ “I’m not a religious person but I do sometimes think God made you for me.” —Sally Rooney,  Normal People

❤️ “I do love nothing in the world so well as you: is not that strange?” —Shakespeare,  Much Ado About Nothing

❤️ “If you are intolerable, let me be the one to tolerate you,” —Taylor Jenkins Reid,  The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

❤️ “I’m enamored with you.”

❤️ “And you know that I’d swing with you for the fences, sit with you in the trenches.” —Taylor Swift, “peace”

Funny Ways To Say I Love You

❤️ You know, I love you more than I love sleep . And trust me, that’s a big statement!

❤️ You’re my happy place in a world full of chaos and craziness.

❤️ If there was a competition for loving someone, I’d win the gold medal for loving you.

❤️ “You’re the peanut butter to my jelly.”

❤️ “You’re the bacon to my eggs.”

❤️ “You’re my cup of tea.”

❤️ “You’re the cheese to my macaroni.”

❤️ “Aloe you vera much.”

❤️ “You’ve stolen a pizza my heart.”

❤️ “Some people are worth melting for.” —Frozen

Different Ways To Say ‘I Love You’ to a Friend

❤️ You’re my best friend.

❤️ I enjoy hanging out with you!

❤️ You’re amazing!

❤️ I’m really thankful to have you as a friend.

❤️ We’re best friends forever!

❤️ I couldn’t ask for a better friend than you.

❤️ You’re my favorite person!

❤️ You mean a lot to me as a friend!

❤️ I love how much we laugh together!

❤️ I’m glad there’s someone like you in the world.

Different Ways To Say ‘I Love You’ to a Family Member

❤️ Have you eaten lately?

❤️ I’m worried about you, can we chat?

❤️ You’re really important to me!

❤️ I love the time we spend together.

❤️ I care about you deeply.

❤️ I feel lucky to have you in my life!

❤️ I’m happy we’re family!

❤️ I’m glad I have you as an uncle/aunt to look up to.

❤️ You’ve made a big impact on my life.

Ways To Say I Love You With Physical Touch

✅ hug s: Give your loved one a big, tight hug to show how much you care.

✅ Hand-holding: Hold hands while walking or sitting together to feel close and supported.

✅ Kisses: Plant sweet kisses on their cheek, forehead, or lips to share your love.

✅ Cuddling: Snuggle up together to feel warm, cozy, and loved.

✅ Back rubs: Massage their back or shoulders to help them relax and feel cared for.

✅ Hair stroking: Gently run your fingers through their hair to soothe and show affection.

✅ Arm around the shoulder: Wrap your arm around their shoulder to offer comfort and closeness.

✅ Playful touches: Give them playful pokes or tickles to share fun and affectionate moments.

✅ Forehead kisses: Plant a soft kiss on their forehead to show love and tenderness.

✅ Embrace from behind: Surprise them with a hug from behind to show your love and protectiveness.

Ways To Say I Love You With Quality Time

✳️ Turn off your phones: When you’re together, put away the phones to focus on each other.

✳️ Share your day: Talk about your day and listen to theirs to stay connected.

✳️ Plan surprises: Surprise them with tickets to a show or event they’ve been wanting to see.

✳️ Hang out with loved ones: Spend quality time with their friends and family to show you care about their relationships.

Ways To Say I Love You With Acts Of Service

🌀 Help out without asking: Do tasks for them without needing them to request it.

🌀 Make their favorite dish: Cook a meal they love without them having to ask.

🌀 Be a good listener: Pay attention when they want to talk, without any distractions.

🌀 Plan a surprise outing: Get tickets to something they’ve been wanting to see or do.

🌀 Take care of them: Anticipate what they need and take care of it before they ask.

Different Ways To Say I Love You In Different Languages

❤️️ F rench — Je t’aime

❤️ Arabic – أنا أحبك

❤️ Spanish — Te quiero

❤️ Hebrew — אני אוהבת אותך

❤️ German — Ich liebe dich

❤️ Croatian — Volim te

❤️ Italian — Ti amamo

❤️ Portuguese — Eu te amo

❤️ Swedish — Jag älskar dig

❤️ Romanian — Te iubesc

❤️ Hindi – “मैं तुमसे प्यार करता हूँ” for males and “मैं तुमसे प्यार करती हूँ” for females.

Final Words

Expressing love is about going beyond the ordinary to make our relationships special. Whether it’s through sweet gestures, romantic words, or unique acts, finding different ways to say “I love you” adds depth and happiness to our connections. Let’s embrace love in all its forms and show our affection in heartfelt, funny, and creative ways.

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Saying I Love You First Time – 13 Perfect Ideas

“I love you” – these are the three little words that are enough to take your breath away. Yet, it can give you a jittery feeling when it is time for saying I love you first time. Falling in love is quite easy, we never ponder over it. Most of the time, we fall in love when we are least expecting it to happen. Our hearts pound and flutter, though, when it’s time to confess. We’re talking about the herculean task at hand – saying I love you the first time.

Expressing your love for the first time can get really tricky. This is one of the situations where even people with the gift of the gab can fall short of words. So, if you are feeling tongue-tied and getting goosebumps before the big day of confession, you’re not alone. We feel you. And this is precisely the reason that we have come up with a couple (well, 13 actually) of creative ways to say I love you the first time. You’ll find here some romantic, unique, creative, and cute ways to say I love you for the first time.

Why Is It So Hard To Say I Love You For The First Time?

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Saying I love you the first time is really difficult. We aren’t trying to discourage you. But let’s face the truth – it is intimidating to express your feelings . You want the moment to be perfect, you rehearse it well, yet you get conscious and perturbed. Things can get really unsettling if it is the first time ever you’ve said ‘I love you’ to anyone at all. There could be a number of things on your mind, distracting you from your track. Right from the fear of being rejected or receiving a disinterested response, to that odd feeling of the relationship coming to an abrupt end, or the much-dreaded ghosting– all this and more could unnerve you and put you in a tight spot.

You look for the right words, the right place, and not to forget, the right moment, and yet everything seems elusive. And for this reason, we have here this list of 13 ideas that you can use to say I love you the first time. We promise you, these are way better than shouting from the rooftops to declare your love. So, let’s initiate your love story with this specially curated list of the best ways to say I love you for the first time.

Wondering If You Should Say It First?

“Should I propose and confess my feelings?”, “Why should I say it first?”, “What if she doesn’t say it back?”, “Is it okay for me to take the initiative?” – The questions on your partner’s mind if you’re dating an overthinker. But to be honest, matters of the heart can make anyone think every single thing over and over again, lest you mess with your romantic relationship. While we all know that there are no rulebooks to abide by, we still tend to overthink just to make sure that our special moment is not ruined. And rightly so! After all, those three words deserve the right expression of love.

There is no straightforward answer to the question: “Should I say it first?” Just go with your instincts. Trust us, it might sound like a big deal in your head, but in reality, it is much simpler. Listen to what your heart says and see if you feel ready for dropping the L-word. If you have been on the same page with that special person for a while, and given enough time to your new relationship to bloom, you should put all your nagging thoughts to rest and consider coming out with your feelings. When you are in love, it does not matter who is taking the lead as long as it leads to mutual happiness and contentment. So, make your mind, and gear up with these cute ways to say I love you for the first time.

When Is The Right Time To Say “I Love You”?

This is something subjective and varies from one person to another. But, ideally, the right time to say “I love you” is when:

• You feel deeply connected to your partner
• Both of you are on the same page
• You are completely sure of your feelings, and have witnessed their consistency for days or weeks
• You’ve asked each other’s definitions of love and relationship
• You feel comfortable spending time with each other
• You see clear signs of a relationship starting
• You have given the right time for your relationship to flourish

If you can tick these boxes, then go ahead and go through our list of the best ways to say I love you for the first time. The timeline for this can range from anywhere between a few weeks to a few moths or even years! What matters is your commitment and seriousness to take things forward.

13 Perfect Ideas To Say I Love You For The First Time

We know you are too eager to reach out to your bae, expressing how you feel for them. But you need to hold your horses. You don’t want to meddle with the special occasion by ending up with a fumbling, clumsy expression of love. For now, just sit back, read on, find the idea that you think your partner will like the most, and take the plunge.

1. Whisper and say I love you the first time

Imagine this scenario – you are snuggling with your partner, all cozy and comfortable. You pull them closer to you, gently caressing them, and softly whispering in their ears, “I love you,” while wearing a coy smile on your lips. Your partner is sure to be surprised and amazed at this demure yet personal expression of love. Saying I love you first time need not be lavish and grand. Keep it simple and profound.

• Catch your partner in your embrace, give them a romantic hug , and utter the L-word
• Express yourself while you two are drifting to sleep
• The sweet nothings gently whispered in the ear exude an endearing vibe that will tug at your love’s heartstrings
• This will be the perfect moment to capture in your memories as your first expression of love

Related Reading: 21 Secret Ways To Say “I Love You” In Text

2. Play it cool (yet romantic) with a curated playlist of love songs

Can’t muster enough courage to speak up about your feelings? Need help with some cute ways to say I love you for the first time? We totally get it. Love can scare you out of your wits. This playlist idea of saying I love you first time is just perfect for you. You can compile a list of songs that both of you love listening to, add in a couple of romantic songs, and finish off with one song that lays bare your heart. What a cool idea it would be to propose and say I love you the first time with a special Spotify list!

One of my colleagues came up with a creative way to say I love you for the first time. He was too shy and couldn’t find the right way to express himself until he stumbled upon this clever idea. He played a list of the most romantic songs which also had a personal recorded message in between. This sweet gesture of an intimate declaration of love saw both of them crooning to P.S I Love You, You, You .

3. Go old school with a hand-written letter

Saying I love you first time over text is quite prevalent, but noting it down in a hand-written letter is THE way to go. Go old school with your expression of love and scribble down your ardent emotions for your bae. There is something remarkable about handwritten love notes that never goes out of style. Saying I love you for the first time in a long-distance relationship becomes easier when you have your feelings bottled up in a love letter . Take out those fancy, colorful, and scented stationeries that you’ve been hoarding for special occasions. Nothing can get more romantic and special than a personal message of love.

Love confessions in hand-written notes make for great keepsakes too. My friend Eliza ditched the millennial/Gen Z way of saying I love you first time over text. Instead, she wrote her heart out on a letter and sneaked it into Ryn’s book. Ryn was ecstatic knowing that Eliza felt the same way as she did. Her love found its perfect reciprocation and the two now fondly remember the moment encapsulated in that well-preserved love note.

4. Drop them a text to say I love you the first time

If writing a letter is not your thing, but you are good with written words, then the idea of saying sweet things to your partner on text is a great way forward. Opt for the millennial way of saying I love you first time over text. At first thought, it might not seem like a good idea to confess your love over a text. On the contrary, it might actually help you express yourself freely and confidently.

Despite being an extrovert guy who has a way with his words, Shaun found himself dumbstruck and speechless while confronting his lady love, Mandy. He finally thought of saying I love you first time over text, and boy, was he articulate! On a text, he was able to communicate the fervor with which he loves her.

Nervous about sharing your feelings with them in person? Just write down your feelings in a latter format, put in a couple of emojis, sign off with something cute, and ace the game of hearts saying I love you the first time. Brownie points if they are in the same room while reading your text. You can even see their reaction to receiving and reading your love message.

Related Reading: Cute Places To Leave Love Notes For Your Boyfriend

5. Visit them unannounced to surprise them with your love

This one is particularly effective for saying I love you for the first time in a long-distance relationship. Things can get tricky if your love interest is far away from you. But fret not, we have just the right idea to act cupid for you two. Make your long-distance relationship work with a little effort.

How to say I love you for the first time to your boyfriend in a long-distance relationship? Check out this list:

• Visit your love interest without informing them, but check their availability
• Spend some quality time together
• You can catch them off-guard as you’re suddenly saying I love you first time
• You can even rope in their friends/family to help you arrange a surprise visit
• Make it all the more romantic with a couple of gifts to say I love you for the first time. Pick up a bouquet of red roses on your way to meet your love

Not only will they be happily surprised by your visit, but it will also make your moment of truth all the more special.

6. Keep it simple and sincere

While there can be a hundred creative ways to say I love you for the first time, it is best to keep it simple. Take an honest approach, and be sincere with your feelings. Sometimes, the shortest route is the best to achieve reciprocity in relationship . Honestly confess your love and tell them how passionately you feel for them. In an intimate moment, when you two are comfortable and cozy with each other, you can simply look them in their eyes saying I love you the first time.

Once you realize you are falling in love with that special someone, it is best to be eloquent about why you love them so much. What makes saying I love you the first time daunting is the fear of a negative response, which is absolutely okay. Face your fears and take everything in your stride. Another way to say I love you is to form the letters with the fridge magnets and telling them to fetch you something from the fridge. As they turn to face you in surprise, there you will be, ready with a flower in hand and a smile on your face.

7. Choose gifts as another way to say I love you for the first time

If you are looking for special and creative ways to confess your feelings, then this one’s for you. Pamper your love interest with a few of their favorite things to say I love you for the first time.

• It can be anything – chocolate gifts and boxes , a framed collage of pictures of you two, their favorite perfume, a gift card, etc.
• Keep their likes, dislikes, and preferences in mind
• No need to be extravagant
• Let your feelings take the front seat this time
• Go the path oft taken – say it with flowers or a ring, go down on your knees (yes we mean it, it is not even restricted to be a ‘boy thing’ anymore), and say those three magical words
• Look deep into their eyes and mean every single word that you speak

It is okay if the response is not what you are expecting. There are ways to deal with unrequited love. At least you are speaking your heart out and doing the best that you can.

Related Reading: 10 Best Ways To Propose A Boy [He Will Say Yes For Sure]

8. Include it in a meaningful conversation

You are in the midst of a conversation with your love and you seriously, whole-heartedly, and passionately want to express your feelings. But all that you are left thinking is “How do I go about it? How to say I love you for the first time in my life?”

This is the moment you need to picture this – you are with your love, spending a night under the stars, a gentle breeze is blowing, and you two are busy talking the night away. While gazing at the starry sky, you engage in meaningful and deep conversational topics like love and life , and while you are at it, you pause for a moment, and hold their hand or face gently, saying I love you first time. It can be as simple and effortless as that. The personal moment that precedes will give enough gravity and credibility to your love confession.

• Striking a deep conversation with your bae might help them make a better and more thoughtful decision since they are already engrossed in a contemplative mood
• This could even be taken to mean that you two are ready to embark on a lifelong journey together
• Your love declaration will gain more depth and meaning when it comes straight from your heart in a serious moment like this

9. Make it fun and sassy with a sparkler

You will see the sparks flying, quite literally. You are head over heels in love, and can’t wait to announce it to them. Take them out on a casual date, preferably after sunset to be more effective. Light up a sparkler to write in the air (love is in the air, anyone?) and say I love you the first time. Definitely one of the most creative and unique ways to confess love and far better than saying I love you for the first time over text. The trail of light and smoke will make your love note linger long enough, for your bae to absorb and delight in, making the moment magical with its exuberance.

This idea of saying I love you the first time comes from my personal love story. I took my man out to a beach to watch the sunset together. We were just sitting when I fished out sparklers and air-wrote my feelings for him. I still remember his expressions as he read the smoky confession. Both of us were amazed at the beauty of the moment. And considering that it’s been 9 years that we are together now, I’d say my idea clicked (of course, we also had other core values in our relationship).

10. Spill the beans on the beach

This is another romantic and cute idea for saying I love you the first time. Plan a day out for some sun, sand, and surfin’ (all these proposals offer a good date idea as a bonus too!). While you two dip your toes in the sand, trace those three magical words to surprise your sweetie. Walking on the beach as the sea waves hit the shores is romantic, but even better is writing the L-word on the beach.

Our love doctor prescribes steering clear of the cheesy and cliched idea of writing your names and a heart with an arrow piercing through it. It has been done to death. We are sure you can find another way to say I love you, something that is different, and fun. Make it unique with your personal touch added to it. Follow this with a thoughtful gift to say I love you for the first time and make it a memorable moment for both of you.

Related Reading: 25 Gifts For Beach Lovers [Gifts For People Who Love The Beach]

11. Treat your love to their favorite meal and a lot of TLC

We all need some (or a lot!) of TLC. Shower them with your affectionate love and care. Show them how special a place they have in your life. Treat them to their favorite meal. Take them out to their favorite restaurant or if you are feeling adventurous, cook them their favorite dish. These signs of true love will drop hints as to how well you know their taste and preference, and how well you can take care of them.

• Keep it classy and simple with genuine efforts
• Saying I love you for the first time over the phone is encouraged only in a an LDR
• Try to add a personal touch to your love confession
• An intimate moment when both of you can feel the depth of your emotions is what is needed

Steal the right moment when both of you are enjoying each others’ company and then go ahead and confess. Maybe just as you finish savoring the meal, or right after polishing off the dessert, end it on a sweeter and romantic note saying I love you first time.

12. How to say I love you for the first time to your boyfriend/girlfriend – Say it with cake

Who doesn’t love cake? Express your profound feelings for your love interest as the icing on the cake, quite literally.

• Have your emotions iced on the cake and get it delivered to their home, saying I love you for the first time in a long-distance relationship
• For those closer home, visit them personally with the cake
• Brownie points if you can carry along gifts to say I love you for the first time
• Go for their preferred flavor of cake
• You can even get it customized by a baker and ask them to hide your personal love message inside the cake

This idea of confessing your feelings is a treat for sure. This is surely one of the exceptional ways to express your love and easily outshines the usual ideas of saying I love you for the first time over the phone or on text.

Related Reading: Thinking Of You Gifts For Your Partner – Ideas For Him And Her

13. Get adventurous with a scavenger hunt

Ditch the cliches. Avoid the cheesy pitfalls. And for god’s sake, don’t even think of saying I love you for the first time over the phone if you meet almost every other day (unless of course, you’re terribly shy or have anxiety). Honor your feelings with a personal and unique expression of love. Lead your partner on a trail with a slew of notes and clues lined up. Perfect idea for the adventurer in them, this cute treasure/scavenger hunt will leave them gaping wide in the end as they ‘discover’ your ardent feelings for them.

• Put on your thinking caps and set up a small scavenger hunt
• Work on the clues that lead them toward the big reveal
• You can add a personal touch to the clues, for example, by hinting at the place you met for the first time or your favorite hangout place
• As they decode the last clue, add meaning to your words and say I love you looking deep into their eyes

Key Pointers

• Be sure of how you feel before you take the plunge
• Saying I love you is understandably difficult but do not get perturbed by the intensity of your emotions
• Your love declaration need not be grand or opulent. What matters is how genuine and profound your feelings are
• It is okay if you do not hear I love you back. Respect their answer. The relationship does not have to end just because they don’t feel the same way right now

We are sure the above ideas will definitely help you sail the love boat smoothly. See which idea you are the most comfortable with and get ready to win over their heart.

This article has been updated in February 2023 .

Even though there are relationship timelines you can follow to understand the matters of the heart better, there is no fixed duration or time to achieve the milestones. You know you are ready to say I love the first time when you two are comfortable with each other. There are no appearances to keep, no shallow pretensions. You enjoy being yourself when you are with them. Just trust your instincts and take the plunge when you feel you are ready for it and when your feelings have been consistent for weeks. 

You can move ahead in your relationship and take things to the next level when you trust each other. You can see a future together and fully receive the happiness originating from each other’s presence. Being comfortable in your skin is the right time to say I love you.

It is indeed devastating and excruciatingly painful when your love for someone goes unrequited. However, there are ways to deal with the situation even if you do not hear an ‘I love you’ back . Try to see things from the other person’s perspectives, and acknowledge that an ‘I love you’ is not half as important as the comfort and long-term happiness for both of you. Find your love in places where you can find happiness. Grieve if you need to. Don’t blame them. Spend some time with your family and friends. And most importantly, do not forget to pamper yourself with self-love.

What Is New Relationship Anxiety? 8 Signs And 5 Ways To Deal With It

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3 words. 8 letters. Say it and I’m yours. 

Saying I love you for the first time is a huge step in any romantic relationship. Whether you build up to the moment with a grand gesture, or it just slips out one day, it’s a euphoric moment to hear it from someone you love (and to say it in return!) 

Even though this might be everyone’s favorite phrase, there are actually a range of different ways to say I love you to your partner. 

In some cases, it’s a more subtle way to express your love without actually saying the L word, or some are just fun variations to showcase the depth of your emotion! 

What can I say instead of saying I love you?

There are so many ways to say I love you to your partner, with poets and artists making various attempts to capture this powerful emotion through the centuries. 

According to the dictionary, you can use simple trade-offs for love like ‘adoration’, ‘affection’, or ‘appreciation’. Or you can utilize non-verbal cues to signal your feelings for someone — especially if you’re not quite ready to confess your love!

Or, when you’ve been in love for a long time, switching up the way you express your love can trigger the kind of sparks or butterflies you’re looking for. 

What are the most romantic alternatives to saying "I love you"?

Telling someone ‘I love you so much’ sounds pretty romantic to us! 

However, if you’re looking for a more romantic edge to your love story, there are plenty of poetic and descriptive alternatives to express your affection. 

You can even go full Mr. Darcy on it, or go for a Bridgerton level of romantic outburst to ensure your partner has no doubts about your feelings! 

How do you say "I love you" in a unique way?

When you first say ‘I love you’ to your partner, it’s like you just can’t get enough of the phrase — as it feels so incredible to say it (and for someone to say it back!) 

However, over time, you might start looking for different ways to express love for your partner. While it may sound silly, it can feel like these three words can no longer encapsulate the depth of your emotions for your soulmate! 

This is why it’s important to have a few different ways to express your love tucked up your sleeve to ensure your partner knows  exactly how you feel. 

Or, if you haven’t quite graduated to saying ‘I love you’ yet, but you want to express your love or appreciation — these can also do the trick! 

Cute ways to say I love you

You make my heart smile. 

You’re my favorite person in the whole wide world. 

I never thought I’d have a partner who doubled as my best friend. 

You’re my sunshine, bringing light to my every day. 

I’m so grateful to have someone like you in my life.

Spending time with you is a delight. 

I trust you. 

I never get tired of spending time with you. 

When I met you, it was like the puzzle pieces of my life came into place. 

You’re the favorite part of my day. 

Yoda the one for me. 

You give me butterflies every single day. 

You make me blush every time you look at me. 

I’ve got a big crush on you. 

You’re my angel. 

I love you to the moon and back. 

I’m yours. 

Don’t go bacon my heart! 

You’ve stolen a pizza my heart. 

I couldn't have done that without you.

Romantic ways to say I love you 

I’m head over heels for you. 

You’re my soulmate. 

You’re the love of my life. 

Being with you feels like home. 

You complete me. 

My heart skips a beat when I’m with you. 

You’re my happily ever after. 

You truly mean everything to me. 

I can’t imagine my life without you. 

Something changed in me from the first time I saw you. 

Days with you make my life feel whole. 

I adore you. 

I’m falling for you. 

I can’t live without you. 

Darling, you’re the one for me. 

You mean so much to me. 

You stole my heart. 

You hold the key to my heart. 

With you, I’ve found my forever.

You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me. 

I’m enchanted by you. 

Being with you makes me feel truly alive. 

You’re truly my serendipity. 

I think I fall in love with you more and more every day. 

Unique ways to say I love you 

You’re my partner in crime. 

You’re my closest confidante — I truly feel like I can tell you anything. 

You’re the light of my life. 

I cherish every aspect of you and fall for you more and more every day. 

There isn’t a word in the dictionary to sum up how much I love you. 

I’m the luckiest person in the world to have you by my side. 

You’re the one that I’ve been waiting for. 

You’re my silver lining. 

You’re the reason for my happiness. 

I’m hopelessly devoted to you. 

You’re the secret ingredient that makes life worth living. 

Loving you is the best decision that I’ve ever made. 

You’re my best adventure. 

You’re my secret weapon. 

You’re my calm amongst the chaos. 

I love you more than coffee, and that’s saying a lot! 

I think we’re destined to be together forever. 

You inspire me. 

You make me want to be a better person. 

You’re my compass. 

Creative ways to say I love you 

Say it with a sticky note hidden in a special place!

Record a video or audio message expressing your love and appreciation for them, and send it to them unexpectedly to make their day!

Cook them their favorite dinner (and write an I love you somewhere in the sauce!) 

Create a playlist full of love songs that all say I love you in different ways. 

Draw a heart with latte art on top of their morning coffee!

Fill a jar with small notes or strips of paper, each containing a reason why you love them or a fond memory you've shared together! 

Hide love notes all around the house, highlighting all the different reasons why you love or admire them. 

Write them a love letter! Don’t spare any details or shy away from the depth of your feelings — go all out with a romantic love letter. 

Plan a scavenger hunt around your home or neighborhood, with each clue leading to a different location or item that holds significance to your relationship. At the end, have a note or gift waiting that says "I love you."

Write it in lipstick on their bathroom mirror for a sweet surprise to start their day! 

Post a heartfelt message on social media with a sweet couple caption to match! Before you get too soppy, make sure that you ask their permission first. 

Any heart-shaped foods should do the trick — from doughnuts to candies! 

Call them and say “I just wanted to hear your voice.” While you haven’t said the words themselves — they’re pretty loud and clear. 

Make a crossword puzzle with clues related to your relationship and include "I love you" as one of the answers.

Channel your inner poet and compose a heartfelt poem that contains all the reasons why you love them. 

Non-verbal ways to say I love you 

When you’re hanging out, turn off your phone and make sure you’re fully focused on them and only them. 

If your love language is physical touch, cuddles or affection are the best way to convey your love for them. 

Some people feel most loved through gift-giving. So why not give them a handmade gift, or buy them something which conveys how much you care about them (and how well you’ve been listening! 

If you’re feeling extra soppy and romantic, you could go the extra mile with breakfast in bed. Whip up some heart-shaped pancakes to say you love them! 

Surprise them with something they love to show you really care!

If you can’t find the words yourself, why not borrow someone else’s words? Gift your partner your favorite poetry book to try and convey the depth of your feelings. 

Texting them to ask if they got home is a super simple yet sweet way to show that you care. 

Holding their hand or expressing your love in subtle ways in public spaces can be a great way to show them and the world your feelings. 

Asking them about their day sounds simple, but it can speak volumes. 

If their love language is acts of service, there are so many little things that can add up to show the depth of your affection. Whether it’s ordering them an Uber or filling up their gas tank, it’s a clear signal that you love them (and know them!) 

Spend time with their family members and loved ones. Sometimes it’s by showing them how much you want to be part of their life that really speaks volumes. 

Plan a vacation that focuses on spending quality time together. 

Take care not to interrupt them when they’re speaking! Or, if someone else cuts across them, circle back to make sure they can say their piece. This small gesture shows how much you value what they have to say — and how much you love them. 

If they’ve had a long day, why not give them a massage? Taking the time to show your affection in this way proves that you care about their well-being and love making them happy.

Be their greatest cheerleader! A surefire way to show your love is supporting them every step of the way. 

Quotes that say I love you to your partner 

“You have bewitched me body and soul.” — Pride & Prejudice

"I'm not a religious person but I do sometimes think God made you for me." — Sally Rooney, Normal People

"If you are intolerable, let me be the one to tolerate you," —Taylor Jenkins Reid, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

"So it's not gonna be easy. It's going to be really hard; we're gonna have to work at this every day, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, every day. You and me... every day." — The Notebook

"It's okay, you can fall down now. I'll catch you." — Taylor Jenkins Reid, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

"I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone." — Arwen, "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring"

"I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where. I love you simply, without problems or pride: I love you in this way because I do not know any other way of loving but this." — Count Laszlo de Almásy, "The English Patient"

"You had me at hello." — Dorothy Boyd, "Jerry Maguire"

"To me, you are perfect." — Mark, "Love Actually"

"I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her." — Anna Scott, "Notting Hill"

"You complete me." — Jerry Maguire, "Jerry Maguire"

"I'll never let go, Jack. I'll never let go." — Rose, "Titanic"

"I'm scared of walking out of this room and never feeling the rest of my whole life the way I feel when I'm with you." — Baby, "Dirty Dancing"

"You make me want to be a better man." — Melvin Udall, "As Good as It Gets"

"It was a million tiny little things that, when you added them all up, they meant we were supposed to be together." — Sam Baldwin, "Sleepless in Seattle"

"I have crossed oceans of time to find you." — Dracula, "Bram Stoker's Dracula"

"You are my greatest adventure." — Mr. Incredible, "The Incredibles"

"I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible." — Harry Burns, "When Harry Met Sally"

"You're the first boy I ever kissed, Jake, and I want you to be the last." — Samantha Baker, "Sixteen Candles"

"I am who I am because of you. You are every reason, every hope, and every dream I've ever had." — Nicholas Sparks, "The Notebook"

"I've come here with no expectations, only to profess, now that I am at liberty to do so, that my heart is, and always will be, yours." — Edward Ferrars, "Sense and Sensibility"

"You had my heart a long, long time ago." — Pocahontas, "Pocahontas"

"You're my golden ticket." — Forrest Gump, "Forrest Gump"

"You are the one who makes me laugh when I want to cry." — Sam, "Love, Rosie"

"You are my best friend as well as my lover, and I do not know which side of you I enjoy the most." — Nicholas Sparks, "The Notebook"

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15 Memorable Approaches To Saying 'I Love You' For The First Time

The first time you tell someone you love them is a very big deal. It can be a romantic moment filled with affection and passion, or you can treat it like a lighthearted conversation with silly and humorous tones. It all depends on how momentous you want the occasion to be. Regardless of how you choose to tell someone you love them for the first time , what matters the most is that it's coming from the heart. 

When you're speaking truthfully and candidly from the heart, it's nearly impossible for your significant other to overlook the magnitude of the moment. Keep in mind that there shouldn't be any pressure on your partner to say it back if they aren't quite ready. This is simply a time for you to express exactly what you're feeling with as much openness, sincerity, and candor as you can muster. These are some of the memorable approaches you can take to make sure your significant other will reflect back on the moment fondly for the rest of their life.

Use flower petals to spell out 'I love you'

You can't go wrong with the use of flower petals in a moment of true romance. Flowers have historically been used as gifts in romantic settings, so there's a reason flower sales shoot through the roof on lovey-dovey holidays like Valentine's Day . Flowers bring so many benefits including their sweet fragrances, their aesthetic beauty, and the way they boost your mood by giving off a sense of higher life satisfaction. 

Spelling out the words "I love you" for your partner using flower petals is an incredibly romantic thing to do if you're ready to express yourself to them in such a deep way. If you want to take things a bit further with symbolism, make sure to only use flower petals from blooms that represent true love. Some of the most popular flowers commonly related to romance include red roses, tulips, orchids, peonies, and carnations. 

You can have a lot of fun with this particular plan by collecting different types of flowers to use their various petals for your "I love you" formation. Different petals come in different sizes, shapes, and colors adding to the visual magnificence. It's up to you to decide where you want to spell out the words with your flower petals, as well. Some thoughtful locations include the top of their bed, the dinner table, in front of their doorstep, or on the hood of their car.

Perform a song or poem that ends with 'I love you'

A unique idea for when you're ready to tell your partner "I love you" is performing an original song or poem for them. The good news is that this idea isn't just for people who are really creative. Just about anyone can carve time to write down some of their most heartfelt thoughts and ideas on paper. 

Keep in mind that the song lyrics you come up with don't have to perfectly match up with particular melodies or beats. The poem stanzas you write up don't have to flawlessly rhyme with each other, either. Since this is an artistic way of expressing your love for your partner, you should go in whatever direction you see fit. You don't have to subscribe to any rules when it comes to writing lyrics or poetry since these are words that are coming directly from your heart. 

It's not a bad idea to get a few inspiring ideas from other people who have done similar things for their partners, but at the end of the day, what you come up with should be a completely original work of art. Once your song or poem is fully written, revised, and ready to go, you'll have to come up with the perfect time and place to perform it in front of your partner. If they're the type to get embarrassed easily, you might want to save this for a moment of intimate privacy.

Present sweet messages on poster boards that lead to 'I love you'

Although it might sound a bit cliché or corny to use poster boards while expressing your true love for someone, this is still one of the most romantic ways you can go out of your way to tell someone how you feel. Using poster boards is something you probably got comfortable with during your elementary school days when you had to complete various projects to be presented in front of the classroom. 

Now, it's time to think of poster boards in a completely different light. You can grab as many poster boards as you'd like, and cover each one with sweet messages, lovely memories, and wonderful compliments until you reach the final poster, which should simply say, "I love you." Leading up to that endpoint, you can describe how you genuinely felt about them the first time you met them. 

List all the things you appreciate about their personality, including their sense of humor, their emotional maturity, and their ambition. You can even go into great detail hyping them up for all the things that make them attractive to you, including their eyes, their hair, their complexion, their height, and everything else you find visually appealing. Lifting someone up emotionally with several poster boards covered in loving words is the best thing to do before ending on that final "I love you" statement.

Make breakfast in bed with a love note

Whether or not you're the type of person who loves spending time in the kitchen, serving your partner breakfast in bed with a note telling them you love them is a super thoughtful action. One of the reasons serving your partner breakfast in bed is considered so loving is that you're accommodating their comfort levels by showing them how much you value and respect their time. 

Serving your partner breakfast in bed is an act of service that will leave anyone feeling cherished if they're on the receiving end. It's difficult to go wrong with a treat like breakfast in bed if you know exactly what your partner enjoys eating during morning hours. If they love pancakes, waffles, or French toast, you can serve them their preference with a good amount of syrup on the side. 

If they prefer fruit, yogurt, and scrambled eggs for breakfast, it's easy enough for you to make that happen, too. With so many cooking tutorials available on the Internet these days, you'll be able to follow a step-by-step guide for any recipe that stands. The cherry on top of this particular breakfast-in-bed experience should be the note you add to the tray that expresses your love for your partner. Make sure the note is placed somewhere that's visible and easy to see.

Display the words 'I love you' on a flying blimp

If you're the type of person who loves going all out with everything you do, displaying the words "I love you" on a flying blimp might just be the best possible option for you and your partner. There's no way your partner won't feel absolutely adored if they look up into the sky and see a blimp flying by with a special banner attached. In order to make sure your partner knows the blimp is specifically dedicated to them, you can pay for their name to be included somewhere in the message. Adding their name turns it into an individualized experience. 

A general "I love you" on a blimp is still very sweet, but it's just not as personal. If this is the plan you choose to follow through with, you'll have to make sure you and your partner are standing outside at the perfect time to catch the blimp as it's flying by. If you're way too early for the blimp's arrival, your partner might start to get suspicious about what's coming. If you're even a minute too late, your partner will miss everything. Timing is key when it comes to expressing your love with an idea like this one.

Carve it in the sand at the beach

If you feel like the words "I love you" are at the tip of your tongue, you might want to figure out the next time the two of you can head to the beach together. If you live somewhere coastal and it's easy enough to stop by the beach for a day, then this idea is perfect for you.  

When you want to carve different images and words into sand, you have to make sure the sand surrounding you is wet enough to be carved into. While you and your partner are spending quality time together at the beach, find an area of sand that's been dampened enough by ocean water for you to write the words "I love you." At some point, the words will be washed away by a wave of ocean water, but you and your significant other will be able to share a warm and magical moment before that happens.

Recite the words 'I love you' in multiple languages until you reach English

You can have a lot of gratification with your partner by reciting the words "I love you" to them in multiple languages before reaching English. There are several ways you can go about accomplishing this because you'll need to know how to say "I love you" in a handful of new languages your partner may or may not already recognize. Some of the most popular languages in the world include Mandarin Chinese, Hindi, Spanish, French, Arabic, Bengali, and Russian. It's up to you to narrow down which languages you want to hone in on to create the most lovey-dovey experience of all time. 

Next, it's time for you to learn the right words by setting realistic goals and studying smartly. It's possible you'll need to rely on flashcards to remember how to say "I love you" in all the languages you selected. If flashcards simply aren't working for you, you can download language learning apps, such as Duolingo and FluentU, to get the job done. There's no doubt that your partner will be impressed by the amount of time you spent practicing words in different languages just so you could tell them how you feel in an unforgettable way.

Make them a quirky PowerPoint presentation

If you're the type of person who thinks PowerPoints are more useful and practical than anything else, telling your partner you love them through the use of a quirky PowerPoint could be a unique idea for you. There are so many things that can be done with a PowerPoint presentation since you can design them however you want as a slideshow. Some of the slides can highlight your favorite memories with your partner, while other slides break down the endearing details you've learned about them since the relationship started. 

Some of the slides might be filled with pictures of you and your partner spending quality time together. You can use your PowerPoint presentation to shed light on your favorite things about your partner that stand out to you the most. The last slide on the PowerPoint presentation should include the words "I love you" in some capacity. As quirky as this idea sounds, your partner will undoubtedly feel cherished knowing that you took the time to put something so considerate together on their behalf.

Write it on the fogged-up shower glass

If you and your significant other are comfortable getting in the shower together, there's an easy route you can take when you're ready to tell them how much you love them. As soon as the shower glass fogs up from the steam that's been building, you can write out the words "I love you" on the surface of the glass. Make sure to do so in a place that's visible to your significant other. If their back is turned while you're writing out the words, you can nudge them in the right direction by switching places with them in the shower, so they can see what you've written. 

Another approach you can take to this would be waiting for your partner to dip into a solo shower. Once it's steamy enough in the bathroom, you can sneak in to write the words out on the glass without fully getting into the shower yourself. Your partner will see what you've written, and the two of you can talk to each other about how you're feeling once they're dried off.

Get the words painted on your nails

Getting your nails done on a regular basis is one of the best forms of self-care, but it's also a great way to express yourself. Having pretty nails can boost your mood since your hands are constantly in your field of vision. That being said, it is beyond thoughtful of you to get the words "I love you" painted on your nails on behalf of your partner. 

In order to make it more individualized and special, you might even consider getting the letters of their name painted on your fingernails, as well. This idea is superb if you have a partner with a short name that doesn't require too much letter art. If their name is simply way too long, you can always just fall back on their initials and possibly swap out the letters of "love" for the symbol of a heart or opt for another romantic nail design .

Order them a custom cake with 'I love you' written on top

Getting in contact with your local bakery is the first step to take if you're ready to order a custom cake for your significant other. When you order a custom cake, you're allowed to choose the flavor, the frosting, how many layers you want it to be, the decorations added on the edges, and the words written on top. For this idea, the words should say "I love you." You have so much creative freedom when you work together with a baker to bring your idea to life. 

If you're ready to tell your partner that you love them and you're hoping to use a custom cake in order to make that happen, it's important to go with a cake they're actually going to enjoy eating after the excitement of reading the words on top starts to calm down. If you know your partner well enough, it shouldn't be difficult to pinpoint exactly what they'd enjoy eating in the form of a cake. Letting someone know that you love them on a custom cake is ideal if they are the type of person who admittedly has a sweet tooth.

Print the words in a personalized book

There are several companies you can look into if you're hoping to order a personalized book. Personalized books are wonderful ways of expressing your feelings to others since you can use as many pages as you want to talk about the different highlights of your relationship. You can also use different pages to compliment your partner for all the ways they are impressive to you. 

You might consider using the pages to show off animated versions of yourselves, or throw in real-life pictures from the course of your relationship. When using a personalized book to tell your partner you love them, you can save those special three words for the last page if you really want to make a lasting impression. If you're ready for them to know you love them by mentioning it on several pages throughout the personalized book, you have the freedom to do that, as well.

Get 'I love you' henna tattooed somewhere visible

You might not be on board with the idea of getting a real tattoo anywhere on your body. Even if you are the type of person who has been tattooed before, getting a tattoo in honor of your partner might still feel like a daunting idea. You don't have to take such a leap by getting tattooed with real ink when something as fun and exciting as henna exists. Henna tattoos are a great route to take if you want to showcase your love for someone without permanently altering the skin on your body. 

You can get the words "I love you" henna tattooed anywhere for them to see. You can make things even more personal by adding their name to the henna tattoo to prove that they're the person you're referring to specifically. The best thing about henna tattoos is that, eventually, they fade away. Your love for your partner doesn't have to go anywhere, but the henna tattoo will eventually rub off.

Carve it in the snow

Living in a mountain town or an area with snowy weather can come in handy if you're ready to tell your partner that you love them. In the same way you'd be able to carve the words "I love you" into the sand at the beach, you can carve those magical words into snow. People lay their entire bodies out in flat areas of snow to create the illusion of snow angels all the time. 

People also cup together piles of snow in their hands to build sizable snowmen when they want to. It's possible to carve any words you desire into snow since it's so easily malleable. You can turn this into the most romantic moment in your partner's life by making sure the words are written clearly and neatly in a visible area of snow. Guide them outside after ensuring that they're layered up in comfortable and warm clothing, so you can reveal what you've written.

Use candles to spell out 'I love you'

There's something so marvelously romantic about using candles in lovey-dovey moments. There's a reason people line bubble baths with candles for partners they love. There's a reason folks light up candles near their bed when they're about to share intimate moments together. You can use candles to spell out the words "I love you" for your partner when you're ready for them to know how you feel. 

The most important thing to keep in mind when using candles is that you have to be very cautious with fire. Arranging your candles on flat surfaces either on the ground or close to the ground is your safest bet. You might also consider opting for candles that have synthetic lights that won't cause wild spreading fires if tipped over. To create the perfect ambiance with stunning candles arranged to spell out "I love you," make sure this moment takes place after the sun sets or in a dark room with the lights turned off.

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156 Ways to Say "I Love You" (Without Actually Saying I Love You)

There are so many different ways to express how your feel.

It never hurts to remind the ones you love just how much they mean to you, but spewing out an obligatory "I love you" can sometimes feel a little forced. Maybe your partner would appreciate something a little more original that they haven't heard a thousand times before . So, to help keep things fresh—if only in the way that you deliver those three little words—we're bringing you 156 unique ways to say "I love you." Read on for some affection inspiration.

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Why Using Different Ways to Say "I Love You" Is Important

Words of affirmation are a close second to quality time when it comes to the most popular love languages. In romantic relationships, this kind of support often presents itself in the form of encouragement and compliments, along with the occasional "I love you."

But sometimes, those three little words just don't seem like the most appropriate choice. Not everyone is comfortable using the phrase, for one. Also, in a culture that throws the expression around often and without a lot of forethought, it may not seem genuine enough for your purposes.

Coming up with a few thoughtful and creative alternatives to telling your partner "I love you" allows you to avoid those drawbacks. It also shows them that you're willing to put in the time and effort needed to let them know how much they're loved. And expressing affection in other ways is important both to your relationship and your individual health.

A 2005 study found that frequent hugs from a partner can lower blood pressure and heart rate in middle-aged women. Another study published three years later found that affection communication —both verbal and non-verbal—can help slash levels of cortisol, a.k.a. "the stress hormone." These gestures may not seem as impactful as an "I love you" in the moment, but they communicate the very same sentiment.

Of course, the way you choose to express your love is up to you and you alone. If "I love you" feels right in the moment, they by all means blurt it out. If, however, you're looking for other effective ways to communicate those those feelings, we encourage you to read on.

Romantic Ways to Say "I Love You"

• I never really knew how beautiful life could be until I met you.
• I feel so at peace with you.
• Your laughter is my favorite sound in the entire world.
• I am completely smitten with you.
• You always inspire those same three words out of me.
• One look from you and the whole world melts away.
• You make me a better person.
• I just want to thank you for choosing me.
• My heart calls out for you.
• You give me hope.
• You have my heart today, tomorrow, and always.
• I can't believe you're mine.
• You mean so much to me.
• I adore you.
• You're safe with me.
• I've got nothing without you.
• I would move mountains to put a smile on your face.
• I am head over heels for you.
• You drive me crazy in all the right ways.
• I never stop thinking about you.

RELATED: 170 Love Messages for Her to Show How Much You Care . 

Cute Ways to Say "I Love You"

• I'm the luckiest person in the world.
• You will forever be my favorite person.
• You make my heart warm and happy.
• You are a beautiful person inside and out.
• When you feel alone, just look at the spaces between your fingers, and remember that's where my fingers fit perfectly.
• You complete me.
• You are so amazing in so many different ways.
• You are my sunshine.
• I love your smell.
• You make my heart skip a beat.
• I still get nervous around you.
• You're stuck with me.
• They say relationships are hard, but you make this so easy.
• You are the light of my life.
• You have stolen my heart.
• You are the peanut butter to my jelly.
• You are the best thing that has ever happened to me.
• There's no one else in the world I'd rather steal blankets from.
• You are my other half, my special person, and my very best friend.
• We fit together better than puzzle pieces.

Creative Ways of Saying "I Love You" to a Friend

• I truly love spending time with you.
• You always know how to turn my day around.
• You are my favorite human.
• I couldn't have asked for a better friend.
• You make me smile.
• I always look to you for advice.
• You're the only person I know I can trust.
• You are the number one person in my life.
• I don't laugh like this with anyone else.
• I really cherish our friendship.
• I am so, so happy we met.
• You're a once-in-a-lifetime kind of friend.
• You're my person.
• You're everything to me.
• I don't know what I'd do without you in my life.
• I can always count on you.
• You're family.
• Thanks for being my best friend.
• I really admire you.
• Thanks for always being there for me.

RELATED:  198 I Love You Quotes to Share With Someone Special .

Poetic Ways to Say "I Love You"

• "Just in case you ever foolishly forget, I'm never not thinking of you. "— Virginia Woolf , Selected Diaries
• "Some people are worth melting for." — Frozen
• "You are sunlight through a window, which I stand in, warmed. My darling." — Jessie Burton , The Miniaturist
• "I do love nothing in the world so well as you: Is not that strange?" — Shakespeare , Much Ado About Nothing
• "If you are intolerable, let me be the one to tolerate you." — Taylor Jenkins Reid , The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
• "If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day, so I never have to live without you." — A.A. Milne , Pooh's Little Instruction Book
• "We would be together and have our books and at night be warm in bed together with the windows open and the stars bright." ― Ernest Hemingway , A Moveable Feast
• "You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how." — Margaret Mitchell , Gone With The Wind
• "You are part of my existence, part of myself. You have been in every line I have ever read." — Charles Dickens , Great Expectations
• "He stepped down, trying not to look long at her, as if she were the sun, yet he saw her, like the sun, even without looking." — Leo Tolstoy , Anna Karenina
• There are darknesses in life, and there are lights, and you are one of the lights, the light of all lights." — Bram Stoker , Dracula
• "I wish I knew how to quit you." — Annie Proulx , Brokeback Mountain
• "My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you." — Jane Austen, Pride And Prejudice
• "By my soul, I can neither eat, drink, nor sleep; nor, what's still worse, love any woman in the world but her." — Samuel Richardson , Clarissa, or, the History of a Young Lady
• "It's like time has lost all continuity. Every second with you outweighs days of life before I met you." — Stephenie Meyer , The Chemist
• "Soul meets soul on lovers' lips." — Percy Bysshe Shelley , Prometheus Unbound
• "I've never had a moment's doubt. I love you. I believe in you completely. You are my dearest one. My reason for life." — Ian McEwan , Atonement
• "You are my heart, my life, my one and only thought." — Arthur Conan Doyle , The White Company
• "I cannot let you burn me up, nor can I resist you. No mere human can stand in a fire and not be consumed." — A.S. Byatt , Possession
• "We've loved each other so long I've never been a man and not loved her." — Sarah Perry , The Essex Serpent

Funny Ways to Say "I Love You"

• You are the crayons to my coloring book.
• You make me feel warm and funny.
• You're my favorite notification on a busy day.
• Whenever I see you, I think, "Good job, God!"
• Seriously, I've fallen for you… and I can't get up.
• You can bug me anytime you want.
• Similar to an asthma attack, you always take my breath away.
• I love you more than hipsters love long hots.
• Thanks for loving me, even when I'm hangry.
• If hugs were inches, I'd give you a mile.
• You're my favorite person to fight with.
• You're the only person I'd share my fries with.
• You know more about me than anyone else in the world, and that's kind of terrifying.
• Just look at this beautiful mess we've created together.
• Do you want the last bite?

RELATED:  11 Love Letters for Him (Anniversary Messages, Make-Up Notes, & More!) .

Creative Ways to Say "I Love You" Over Text

• We may be doing this long-distance, but you're never far from top of mind.
• You're the reason why I'm always smiling at my phone like an idiot.
• My heart skips a beat every time I see your name pop up on screen.
• Every text from you feels like a miniature reunion.
• Your messages turn miles into moments.
• Make sure to text me when you get home.
• I'm still working on the time and the budget, but for now, think of each text I send a love letter and the sounds they make your serenade.
• Just wanted to let you know I'm thinking about you.
• I know you're busy, but I wanted to let you know how proud I am of you.
• I don't know how, but you've somehow turned me into a hopeless romantic.
• A little love note from you is enough to make my whole day.
• Actions speak louder than words, so here's a text to prove that you're always on my mind.
• Just checking in and sending hugs from afar.
• It's crazy how you can give me butterflies when we aren't even together.
• You being in my life has made everything so much better.

Fun Ways to Say "I Love You" in Different Languages

• Ik hou van jou. (Dutch)
• Ich liebe dich. (German)
• Je t'aime. (French)
• Je te désire. (French)
• Saranghae. (Korean)
• Ég elska þig. (Icelandic)
• Ti amo. (Italian)
• Jeg elsker deg. (Norwegian)
• Eu te amo. (Portuguese)
• Te iubesc. (Romanian)
• Ya tebya lyublyu. (Russian)
• Te amo. (Spanish)
• Te adoro. (Spanish)
• Te quiero. (Spanish)
• Seni seviyorum. (Turkish)
• Ngiyakuthanda. (Xhosa)

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Ways to Say "I Love You" With Physical Touch

• Hold them in your arms as you fall asleep.
• Spell out "I love you" using your fingers into their palm.
• Kiss them on the forehead (or cheek) in passing.
• Hold their hands the next time you're walking around.
• Offer to give them a massage.
• Ask them to put their feet on your lap when watching television or a movie.
• Sit on the same side of the table the next time you're at a restaurant.
• Rest your head on their shoulder.
• Give them a pat or a squeeze when they walk by.
• Brush their hair out of their face and tuck it behind their ear.

Ways to Say "I Love You" With Thoughtful Gestures

• Write "I love you" in the steam left on the bathroom mirror while they're showering.
• Prepare a candlelit dinner complete with some of their favorite foods.
• Write "I love you" in sidewalk chalk outside your house or apartment.
• Invite their friends or family over for a little quality time.
• Surprise them by getting their car washed (and make sure they have a full tank of gas).
• Schedule an appointment or repair that they keep putting off.
• Finish up any incomplete household chores, like folding laundry or washing dishes.
• Fill up the pantry or fridge with their favorite foods.
• Chill their beer or wine glasses.
• Call in and pick up their prescription when they're sick.

Ways to Say "I Love You" Using Gifts

• Give them a personalized gift that reflects something they're either very interested in or very passionate about.
• Write love notes and hide them for your partner to find randomly as a sweet surprise.
• Put a framed photo of the two of you next to your bedside.
• Invest in matching charm bracelets.
• Bring home a personalized dessert complete with a special or romantic message.
• Surprise them with a special excursion or weekend away.
• Reserve two spots in a custom candle-making class.
• Purchase a customized item for the household featuring a photo of your partner or both of you together.
• Put together a scrapbook or photo album featuring your favorite moments together.
• Pick out a piece of jewelry and have it engraved with your initials or your anniversary.

Wrapping Up

That's it for our list of creative ways to say "I love you," but be sure to check in with us again soon for more ways to express your love. You can also sign up for our newsletter so you don't miss out on what's coming next!

• Source: More frequent partner hugs and higher oxytocin levels are linked to lower blood pressure and heart rate in premenopausal women
• Source: Affectionate communication received from spouses predicts stress hormone levels in healthy adults.

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221 Creative And Fun Ways To Say I Love You

There are thousands of songs dedicated to these three little words . There are millions of poems, books, and movies written about them.

Every minute of every day, all over the world, one phrase is exchanged in whispers, through tears, and shouted from mountain tops.

You know the one.

You said it when you got off the phone with your mom, or your kids, or your best friend.

You said it when you felt those tingly feelings in a new relationship.

We say it so much, we’ve created thousands of other ways to say “I love you.”

We've put together a list of 221 different I love you expressions to reignite the spark with some creative expressions. 

Romantic Ways to Say I Love You

Funny ways to say i love you, cute ways to say i love you, creative ways to say i love you, romantic and cute ways to say i love you over text, 221 different ways to say i love you.

No matter the words, the best way to say I love you is from the heart. For that reason, there is no limit on how to communicate your love for someone.

From doing the dishes or getting down on one knee, it’s all about the love in your heart. Of all the ways to say I love you, we've gathered a few to inspire you to express your feelings in a new way.

Whether you’re in the heat of romance or want to make your lover laugh, check out these 201 best ways to express your love.

You make my heart sing.

I’m crazy for you. I’m crazy about you, and I’d be crazy to ever let you go.

You are the love of my life.

You set my world on fire. 

Je t’adore.

You’ve got me head over heels. 

I will love you forever — to the moon and back. 

Every single day I fall more and more in love with you. 

You are the light of my life.

I will be there for you in the best and the worst of times.

You can always count on me, no matter what.

You are the most beautiful person on the planet. Scratch that, you are the most beautiful person in the universe .

There are no words to describe how you make me feel.

I simply adore you.

I would be lost without you. 

Only you have the key to my heart. 

We are meant to be. 

You are my forever. 

You are my person. 

My heart yearns for you. 

I find you intoxicating. 

I want to spend the rest of my life with you.

You are my soulmate. 

I thank God every day that I meant you.

Do you know how precious you are?

I choose you today. I’d choose you tomorrow. I will choose you every day.

It makes me so happy to see you happy. 

On a rainy day, it’s you who sends the clouds away. You are my sunshine. 

You are darling.

I’m so completely turned on by you.

With you at my side, I feel like I’ve won the lottery. 

What a treasure you are. 

I’m constantly mesmerized by you.

You are bewitching. 

I’m totally devoted to you. 

You make me feel things that I’ve never felt before.

How did I get so lucky to find you?

Being in love with you makes me feel like nothing is impossible.

I’ve been under your spell since I first saw you. 

Being with you feels like paradise. 

You are home to me.

No matter where I go, I will always come back to you. 

You bring meaning to my life. 

If you were on the other side of the world, I'd walk there to reach you if I had to. 

Every day is an adventure with you. 

It has always been you, my love. 

I am the best version of myself when I am with you. 

You give me strength. 

I’m all yours. 

I can’t get you out of my head.

You are my missing puzzle piece.

I’d risk my life for a forever with you. 

I want to hold your hand and never let go.

I smile just thinking about you. 

I think of you every minute we are apart. 

How was I alive before I was living with you?

Your love has set me free.

I give the whole of my heart to you. 

I thought I could only dream of someone like you. 

I have fallen for you. 

Will you marry me? 

I feel all bubbly inside . You’re soda-lightful. 

Aloe you vera much.

My feelings for you are like a burp — I just can’t hold it in! 

You make me feel all warm inside. Or maybe it’s all the coffee I had this morning. 

I’ve got a bad problem with procrastination. I love you more today than I did yesterday. 

If you love a certain food, you eat it up. If you love a flower, you cut it off. You love me right? Should I be scared?

If you put together chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers, you’d know how much I love you: a little s’more every day.

I can’t eat in the morning, cause I’m too busy thinking of you. I don’t eat in the evening, because I’m too busy thinking of you. I can't sleep at night, because I’m so hungry! 

God, you’re sexy. Oops, that wasn’t meant for God! 

I shave my legs for you. 

I love you more than I love tacos. 

Thank you for saving me from being a crazy cat lady.

I would say that I love you with my whole heart, but I love you with my belly. It’s bigger.

Would you mind lending me a kiss? I swear I’ll return it!

Are you a track star? Because you’ve been running circles in my head. 

You give me faith in men. I'm definitely a believer!

Type n-3^07-! into a calculator, and turn it upside down.

I’d give up Animal Crossing for you.

I am lovesick. Will you be my doctor?

You’re a weirdo. And I love it. 

Either you give me butterflies in my stomach, or I ate a bad burrito! 

We should grow old and miserable together. 

I’ll prove my love to you with Starbucks. See? I love you a latte. 

You can have the last cookie — as long as you split it with me.

Help! I’ve fallen for you, and I can’t get up!

There could be other fish in the sea, but I think you’re my sole mate.

You are the ‘Oh, nothing’ when someone asks what I’m thinking about. 

I knew it was love when I had spinach in my teeth and you weren't grossed out.

I had to download Google Maps because I was lost before I found you. 

I love you because you can love me even when I’m hangry. 

You are the first thing I think about when I wake up and the last thing I think about before bed. I think of you a couple of other times a day too. 

I need you more than I need coffee, but swear you won’t make me prove it.

You are my favorite person to annoy.

You keep hanging around in my head. Maybe we should spend some koala-ty time together!

Maybe I’m crazy about you, or maybe I’m simply crazy!

Even if we both became zombies, I’d still ‘chews’ you.

I need you like I need chapstick: on my lips. 

Out of all the pains in my butt, you’re my favorite.

Being normal is insanely overrated. I’d rather be crazy for you. 

You are the only reason I wake up in the morning . That, and I really need to pee. 

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We’re partners in crime. 

I called you just to hear your voice. 

You’re my sweetheart. 

You complete me.

You give me the fuzzies.

I made you breakfast. 

You’re the center of my world. Gravity seems to pull me towards you. 

You’re the best thing since sliced bread. No, you're just the best.

You are my lightning bug — you make a dark night brighter. 

Will you stay with me tonight? 

I’d like to hold you in my arms forever. 

I appreciate all there is about you. 

If this were a dream, I would never want to wake up.

You’re the jelly to my peanut butter. 

You make me forget everything bad in the world.

You’re a rockstar, and I'm your groupie.

You’re safe with me.

Did you know that just the thought of you makes me smile?

Spending a sleepless night with you is a dream. Spending a sleepless night without you is a nightmare. 

You’ve made me so happy, I want to sing in the rain.

You are number one in my heart.

I could be right here with you forever. 

A whole day feels like an hour when I am with you. 

Thinking of you every moment, every day. 

You’re my cuddle bug.

You have made my life a fairytale. 

Thank you for just being who you are. I love all your parts and pieces, inside and out.

When I close my eyes, it is you I see in my dreams. How lucky am I to open my eyes and see you there beside me?

It would take a million years for me to feel like I have given you enough love. 

You will always be enough — even though I still want more of you. 

I want to spend the whole day just you and me.

There should be a song about us.

Just popping in to say I miss you . 

I used to have to try to be happy. When I’m with you, I don’t have to try. I just am. 

Your hair looks so pretty like that. The rest of you does too!

You have the best smile. 

Let’s stay like this forever.

I love that we can be goofy together. 

I’d climb the world’s tallest mountain if you were at the top of it. 

No beautiful view compares to how I see you.

I’m smitten with you.

This just feels right. 

I have a crush on you.

My heart skips a beat when you walk into the room.

You are my sunshine.

The only thing on my schedule is you.

I want to share everything with you. 

You’re my lighthouse. In rough waters, you guide me home.

Nothing has ever been easier than loving you. 

You make me my best self. 

Show them a song that makes you think of them.

Say it in a different language: Je t’aime. Jeg elsker deg. Te quiero te amo. Ich liebe dich.

Write it in chalk on a sidewalk.

Give them a handmade gift. 

Say it with a fireworks display. 

Go on a romantic vacation together.

Carve your names into a tree.

Put it in a fortune cookie.

Give them a beautiful piece of jewelry.

Say it in binary code: 01001001001000000110110001101111011101100110010100100000011110010110111101110101

Take a hike together, and shout it from a mountain top.

Write a love letter . 

Turn your romance into a movie script. 

Do their laundry. 

Bring him or her breakfast in bed. 

Share your favorite book or movie with them.

Go on an adventure.

Hold them in your arms as you both fall asleep.

Trace “I love you” on their hand with your finger.

Create a scavenger hunt with a sweet surprise or message at the end. 

Throw them a party just to celebrate your love.

Take them stargazing.

Document your time together and turn it into a little movie.

Write down a hundred reasons why you love them and put them in a jar. 

Put a key on a necklace chain and give him or her the key to your heart. 

Give a book of poetry, or write one yourself.

Make them coffee in the morning. 

Play hooky and spend the whole day together.

Take their friends out to dinner.

Craft a collage of all of your favorite memories. 

Get your portrait taken together.

Put your picture inside of a locket. 

Take them to see their favorite music artist in concert. 

Take a dance class together. 

Share a fantasy with them.

Hide love letters around the house.

Make a mix tape of love songs. 

Buy a star and name it after them.

Send them a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

Serenade them with a song you wrote yourself.

Frame a map of the city where you met with a heart over the exact location.

Make a cute book of coupons redeemable for things like “one free back rub” or “your movie pick tonight.” No expiration date, of course.

Make a list of your favorite inside jokes.

Illustrate a comic book where they are the hero. 

Commission a drawing of you two from an artist. 

Take their car to the car wash.

Build a fort and have a romantic picnic in your living room.

Turn off your phone for a whole day. 

Sneak a love message into their work bag. 

Finally read that book they recommended to you. 

I am thinking those 3 little words…

Pitter patter, pitter patter. Do you what that is?

Could it be…love?

I much more than like you.

I've got you under my skin…

I feel one half of myself without you here.

You are like home to me.

I want you so much it hurts.

You have bewitched me, body and soul. (From the movie Pride and Prejudice )

So this is what love feels like…

I simply and completely adore you.

You and me. Together. Forever.

To me, you are perfect. (From the movie Love Actually )

I cherish you.

Please…be mine.

I am wild about you.

My heart burns for you.

My feelings are so deep; I'm drowning in them.

I can hardly breathe for wanting you.

Let me give you the fairy tale.

Have you found a new way to say I love you?

Telling someone you love them is a huge milestone for every relationship. Making that leap can be amazing and even scary.

You may wish that someone could just tell you when and how to say I love you to make things easier. No matter how you say it, if it comes from the heart, your message will be heard.

As they say, love is a many-splendored thing. These I love you phrases are just the beginning. 

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30 Romantic Ways To Say 'I Love You' (Without Uttering A Word)

There's more than one way to show someone you love them..

• Dr. Gina Senarighi

Last updated on Jun 21, 2024

With so much on our plates — from work to self-care to friends and family — life gets pretty crazy. All too often we forget to show the ones we love how important they are to us. But that's no excuse to be lazy in your love life. So in that spirit, here's how to tell him you creatively love him. Instead of just saying "I love you," why not show it? Start today and have fun being spontaneous and romantic with your sweetie.

Here are 30 romantic ways to say 'I love you' without actually saying a thing: 

Watch a sunset or sunrise together and bring a picnic or background music to set the mood. Check for sunrise or sunset times in advance to make sure you don't miss that special moment.

RELATED: The 2 Words That Are Way More Important Than 'I Love You'

2. Make a love note scavenger hunt

Hide sweet reminders and rewards in your home, office, or neighborhood.

3. Read bedtime stories

Pick a favorite book and read it aloud together. You'll get quality time together and the expansion of your individual and collective knowledge bases.

4. Send an e-card

Someecards are my personal favorite for snarkiness, and you can personalize them!

5. Write it in the sand

Or the fall leaves, or seashells, or shoe boxes, or rose petals.

6. Unplug from technology

Set up a media-free night and focus 100 percent of your attention on your honey.

7. Write it in lipstick on the mirror

Even if you aren't the one who wears lipstick (or neither of you does). There's something very sultry about seeing those words in red.

8. Take a deeper look

Share five minutes of uninterrupted eye contact. Try it and see what happens or where it takes you.

9. Appreciate big

Throw a surprise appreciation party with close friends. Ask everyone to give a short speech about why your sweetie is loved.

10. Plan your sweetheart's dream date

Do exactly what they love to do, with no strings attached.

RELATED: 3 Little Words Your Partner Needs To Hear Way Before 'I Love You'

11. Write it in the snow

If you want to learn how to tell him you love him, use food coloring and a spray bottle to write sweet words in your love's yard

12. Make a calendar

Use your Google or iCal and make a note every day of one thing you appreciate about your special someone. Make sure you share it so they can see it.

13. Re-live your first date

Remember the details and try to line things up with meaning. If it was awkward, stage a re-do.

14. Have a movie marathon

Rent a bunch of your partner's favorite films from childhood. Don't forget the popcorn!

15. Love all over

Trace your sweetie's body on paper or with chalk on the pavement, and fill in the outline with all the awesome things you appreciate about their body.

16. Make a homemade thank you card

Get out your markers, glitter, and crayons. What a sweet (and sparkly) way to say something kind to someone you love.

17. Write out an alphabet of appreciation

Make a list of something you appreciate about your sweetheart for every letter of the alphabet.

@jeffkallil Reply to @clarap0702 5 ways to appreciate them #relationshiptips #bekind #loveadvice #longtermrelationship ♬ Stories 2 - Danilo Stankovic

18. Be the "grocery fairy"

For those of you who prefer "acts of service" as your love language, surprise a lover with a week's worth of fresh groceries. Don't forget a flirty note.

19. Bake something

Say it in cookies, frosting, cakes, or pie tops. Make your sweetie's favorite sugary treat and top it with your love.

20. Make a modern mixtape

Curate hand-picked tracks for your honey to let them know you're thinking of them.

RELATED: 7 Of The Most Unexpectedly Romantic Things You Can Do For A Man

21. Write it out

Handwrite a letter explaining why you love your partner — and be specific.

22. Serenade them

Dedicate and perform a karaoke song to your beloved. Dance moves always help.

23. Write a good night love note

Hide a love note under his or her pillow. Better yet, make a love note pillow.

24. Go international

Surprise them with an "I love you" in another language. Use Google Translate to get your pronunciation right.

25. Make home movies

Use iMovie to piece together a collection of reasons why you appreciate your sweetheart.

26. Eat breakfast in bed

You can even make pancakes or toast that say it for you.

27. Write it on yourself

Write a love note on your body and have a scavenger hunt for your lover to find it.

28. Make a love map

No, not the Gottman Love Map you hear me talking about all the time; instead, this time get a map and stick a pin in it for each of your travels . If you have yet to go far, stick another color in for your future travels.

29. Play it out

Make a crossword or word search puzzle of your favorite inside jokes.

30. Send a panty-gram

Yep, you heard right. 

RELATED: 15 Ways Guys Say 'I Love You' Without Ever Saying A Word

Dr. Gina Senarighi , PhD, CPC is a couples therapist turned relationship coach, retreat leader, and author specializing in intimacy, authenticity, shame-resilience, and connected communication for diverse relationships. She has been featured in The Washington Post, USA Today, Women's Health, Bustle, Slate, and more.

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10 Ways to Say “I Love You” for the First Time

Last Updated: December 29, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Connell Barrett and by wikiHow staff writer, Madeleine Criglow . Connell Barrett is a Relationship Expert and the Founder and Executive Coach of Dating Transformation in New York City. Connell has over five years of experience as an international coach who helps men connect with women by unlocking their best, true, most confident selves. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller “Dating Sucks but You Don’t,” and has appeared on Good Morning America, the "Today" show, Access Hollywood, and in Best Life, Cosmopolitan, and The Oprah Magazine. In 2019 he was named Datezie.com's “New York City’s Best Male Dating Coach." There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 26,422 times.

Ready to take the next step in your relationship? Saying "I love you" to your partner is thrilling, but it can also feel a little scary to put yourself out there like that. If you're ready to confess your love but aren't sure how to do it, this article is here to help. Read on for a complete list of fun, creative ways to tell your boo you love them!

Plan a special date.

• If your partner likes low-key activities, skip the five-course meal in favor of burgers and milkshakes. Alternatively, prepare a picnic and tell them how you feel while eating lunch at the park.

Call or video chat if they live out of town.

• Text them something like, "I miss hearing your voice. Would you be free to talk on the phone this evening?"
• Set up a video chat date, like eating dinner together in your respective homes. Then, say something like, "I'm so happy I get to see your face even if we can't be together right now. I love you." [2] X Research source
• You can also tell them how you feel over voicemail for a romantic (and unexpected) gesture.

Write them a love letter.

• Let's say your partner consistently calls you on their 15-minute break to say hi or always makes you laugh when you watch movies together. Those are the things to include in the letter.
• Write something like, "I get so happy every time I hear your voice over the phone. I love you so much."

Give them a gift with a handwritten note.

• If your partner lives out of town, surprise them with the gift and message in the mail.

Recite or read them a love poem.

• If your partner has a favorite poet, consider using a romantic poem they wrote to express your feelings.

Make them a cute playlist of love songs.

• If you're having trouble picking love songs, add a few tracks that have sentimental value in your relationship. You might try a song that was playing on your first date or a track by your partner's all-time favorite artist.

Write "I love you" in the air with a sparkler.

Draw "I love you" in the steam of the bathroom mirror.

Say it spontaneously if the timing feels right.

• Say something like, "I'm so lucky to have you in my life. I love you."

Say it without expecting an answer.

• Different people go through relationships at different paces. It's possible they're just not ready yet.
• Regardless of how they respond, remember that it's never a mistake to share that you care about someone. [6] X Research source

Expert Q&A

• It's best to wait until you really understand your feelings. This moment is different for everybody. Try spending time with your partner, checking how often you think of them, and being aware of how you feel when you're apart. [7] X Research source Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/love/confessing-your-feelings-how-to-tell-a-girl-you-love-her/
• ↑ https://www.thecut.com/article/virtual-date-ideas.html
• ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/relationships/a34990117/how-to-write-a-love-letter/
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-the-name-love/201412/when-should-you-say-i-love-you
• ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/jul/10/crush-feel-relevant-information-compliment-fancying
• ↑ https://youtu.be/NS4fpagwyPA?t=65
• ↑ Connell Barrett. Dating Coach. Expert Interview. 24 September 2019.
• ↑ https://youtu.be/00ApFmyX6-k?t=110

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wikiHow's Best Advice on Dating & Love

How To Say “I Love You” For The First Time: Tips & Advice To Make It Special

Do you want to express those three little words to someone special? Saying ‘I love you’ for the first time can be nerve-wracking, but with the right tips and advice, you can make it a truly special moment. How to say I Love You for the first time : Tips & advice to make it special

In this guide, we will show you how to say ‘I love you’ in a way that will leave a lasting impression.

First, choose the perfect time and place to share your feelings.

Then, express your love sincerely and authentically, letting your emotions guide your words.

Consider your partner’s love language to ensure your message resonates with them.

Plan a thoughtful gesture or surprise to make the moment even more memorable.

Lastly, be prepared for different reactions, as everyone responds differently to hearing those magical words.

With these tips, you’ll be ready to make your declaration of love unforgettable.

Table of Contents

Choose the Right Time and Place

Choose the perfect moment and location to express your love for the first time. Creating a romantic atmosphere is essential in making this moment memorable. Consider a setting that holds significance for both of you, such as the place where you first met or had a special date. It could be a cozy restaurant with dim lighting and soft music playing in the background, or a scenic spot where you can watch the sunset together. The right ambiance will help set the stage for your heartfelt declaration.

Once you have chosen the perfect location, the next step is to find the right words to say. This can be nerve-wracking, but remember that sincerity is key. Speak from your heart and be genuine in expressing your feelings. You don’t need to use grand gestures or fancy words; simplicity can be incredibly powerful. Focus on the qualities you adore about your partner and how they make you feel. Tell them how they’ve changed your life for the better and how much they mean to you.

Express Your Feelings Sincerely and Authentically

Share your feelings genuinely and from the heart when saying ‘I love you’ for the first time. It’s important to show vulnerability and communicate effectively, so the other person understands the depth of your emotions. When expressing your love, be sincere and authentic, as this will make your words more meaningful and memorable.

To show vulnerability, let go of any fears or insecurities that may hold you back. Open up and allow yourself to be emotionally exposed. Express why you love the person and how they make you feel. Avoid clichés or generic statements; instead, be specific and mention qualities or actions that have touched your heart. This will make your confession more personal and genuine.

Effective communication is key when expressing your feelings. Choose your words carefully and speak in a calm and confident tone. Be clear and direct, so there’s no confusion about your intentions. Listen attentively to the other person’s response and be prepared to have an open and honest conversation.

Consider Your Partner’s Love Language

Understand your partner’s love language to effectively convey your feelings when saying ‘I love you’ for the first time. One of the keys to nurturing a strong emotional connection is understanding each other’s communication styles. We all have different ways of expressing and receiving love, and knowing your partner’s love language can make a significant difference in how your message is received.

Gary Chapman, the author of ‘The 5 Love Languages’, defines love languages as the different ways people give and receive love. The five love languages are words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch. By understanding which love language resonates most with your partner, you can tailor your expression of love to match their preferences.

For example, if your partner’s love language is acts of service, showing your love by helping with chores or completing tasks for them will speak volumes. On the other hand, if their love language is quality time, spending uninterrupted and undivided attention with them will make them feel cherished.

Plan a Thoughtful Gesture or Surprise

Consider incorporating a thoughtful gesture or surprise into your expression of love when saying ‘I love you’ for the first time. Planning a romantic dinner or surprising your partner with a personalized gift can make the moment even more special and memorable.

One way to create a romantic atmosphere is by organizing a candlelit dinner for the two of you. Choose their favorite dishes or cook something special yourself. Set the table with their favorite flowers and create a cozy ambiance with soft music playing in the background. This gesture shows that you’ve put thought and effort into making the moment meaningful.

Another thoughtful surprise could be a personalized gift that reflects your partner’s interests or memories you’ve shared together. It could be a custom-made piece of jewelry, a scrapbook filled with pictures and heartfelt messages, or even a handwritten letter expressing your feelings. Personalized gifts show that you pay attention to the little details and truly know and understand your partner.

Be Prepared for Different Reactions

When planning a thoughtful gesture or surprise to say ‘I love you’ for the first time, it’s important to be prepared for the different reactions your partner may have. While expressing your love can be a beautiful and exciting moment, it’s crucial to understand that not everyone may respond in the way you hope for.

Dealing with rejection is never easy, but it’s essential to remember that everyone has their own journey and timeline when it comes to love. If your partner doesn’t reciprocate your feelings, it’s important not to take it personally. People have different experiences and emotions, and it doesn’t necessarily mean they don’t care about you. Give them space and time to process their own feelings, and try to have an open and honest conversation about where you both stand.

On the other hand, you may also encounter mixed signals. Your partner might express their love in a different way or may not be ready to say those three words just yet. It’s crucial to navigate these mixed signals with patience and understanding. Communication is key in any relationship, so ensure that you both are on the same page and have a clear understanding of each other’s expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i know if it’s the right time to say ‘i love you’ for the first time.

If you’re wondering when to say ‘I love you’ for the first time, trust your instincts. Look for signs like feeling a deep connection, wanting to be vulnerable, and overcoming any fears.

Should I Choose a Specific Location or Setting to Say ‘I Love You’ for the First Time?

When saying “I love you” for the first time, consider the right location and create a romantic atmosphere. Think about your partner’s preferences and find the perfect timing. Express your genuine emotions and plan a thoughtful surprise to overcome any difficulty in expressing your love. Recognize your partner’s love language.

What if I Have Difficulty Expressing My Emotions Sincerely and Authentically?

If you have difficulty expressing your emotions sincerely and authentically, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Consider seeking professional help or guidance to help you overcome these emotional barriers.

Is It Important to Consider My Partner’s Love Language Before Saying ‘I Love You’?

Before saying “I love you,” it’s essential to understand your partner’s love language. By recognizing how they prefer to receive love, you can express your emotions in a way that resonates with them deeply.

How Can I Plan a Thoughtful Gesture or Surprise to Accompany My Declaration of Love?

When planning to say ‘I love you,’ consider a thoughtful gift or romantic gesture. It can add a special touch to your declaration and show your partner how much you care.

In conclusion, expressing your love for someone for the first time is a special moment that requires thoughtfulness and authenticity. By choosing the right time and place, being sincere in your feelings, considering your partner’s love language, planning a thoughtful gesture, and being prepared for different reactions, you can make this moment memorable and meaningful.

Remember, saying ‘I love you’ is a beautiful step in any relationship, and it’s important to approach it with care and consideration.

60+ Ways to Tell Someone You Love Them Over Text

Master the perfect "I love you" text and learn a few special sayings along the way.

Megan's contributed both writing and research to a myriad of associations including academic publications, cultural institutions, non-fiction works, and experimental collaborative projects.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

In modern dating, there' s a sixth love language - texting. Romancing someone over text is a fine art, one that you can get better at with a little practice. Don't fall into the trap of always just saying "I love you." Rather, learn how to craft a memorable "I love you" text by diving into some examples that are sweet, heartwarming, and oh so personal.

Cute Ways to Say "I Love You" in a Text

From picking out emojis to debating over using punctuation, crafting an "I love you" text takes some serious brainpower, especially if you're sending the first one in your relationship. But, the biggest tip is to not overthink it! And if you need a little help, we've got these cute ways to show your affection for them over text at the ready.

Just when I think my heart couldn't get any fuller, I somehow love you more.

I love you now. I love you always. I love you forever. But even that doesn't seem like a long enough time.

Every time you smile, my heart stutters.

You brighten my world so much each day; I don't know how I ever lived without you.

To say I love you to the moon and back doesn't even cover it. I love you so much; they haven't even discovered a planet that far yet.

There are a thousand ways you make me happy each and every day. The words "I love you" don't even cover the depth of my feelings for you.

I adore just how perfect you are, but I couldn't live without your imperfections.

The love you give me makes me a better person. Because of you, the world's clearer and my day's brighter. Thank you for loving me.

When the world's pushing me down, your love gives me the inspiration to take that next step.

This must be true love, because I've never felt this way before.

The sound of your voice brightens my day.

Every day that I'm not with you seems like an eternity. I long for the next time we'll be together again.

I can't wait for dinner tomorrow night. I love spending time with you.

I had so much fun with you yesterday. So excited to see you later. Love you!

I love you. Just wanted to say that.

Just wanted to tell you how much I love and adore you.

When I'm sad, picturing you in my mind makes me smile.

Knowing that I'm lucky enough to call you mine is my new reason for getting up in the morning.

Meeting you was like finally finding those missing socks that disappear in the laundry. You're my love match.

• 100 Different Ways to Say "I Love You" With Meaning
• How to Retrieve Old Text Messages From the Digital Grave

Touching Text Messages Your Partner Will Love to Read

Touch your partner's heart with these romantic messages perfect for any relationship. Knowing how to express your feelings to someone through text isn't always easy, but if you're genuine, you can't go wrong. Let your significant other know just how much you love them through a meaningful "I love you" text, like any one of these heartwarming examples.

I never truly believed in soulmates until I met you. You're the piece of myself I never knew was missing.

You made me realize that reality's much better than dreams, because loving you is like living in a dream.

When you wrap your palm around mine, I know that nothing in this world is impossible.

Knowing that you love me, flaws and all, gives me the strength to work each day to be a better me.

I'm a better me with your love in my heart.

I never understood the phrase "love to last a lifetime" until I met you. I want to walk with you hand in hand until my last breath.

Even if you were lost in a vast ocean of people, my heart would always find yours.

Before I met you, my mind was overwhelmed with everything. But now, it's impossible to think of anything but you.

Being with you is like living in heaven. Every moment is a new adventure to love.

My heart came to life the moment you stepped into my life.

• 35 Touching Things to Say to the One You Love

Sweet and Romantic Text Messages Full of Love

Keep your love sweet as sugar through these "I love you" texts. While you don't want to shoot for full-on sappy, syrupy is just fine. Sometimes, we could all do with a little dose of sugar in our lives.

Baby, I couldn't count the ways I love you because there isn't a number for infinity.

Thank you for choosing me every day of our lives. I love you more than words.

Your love for me is like the most beautiful perennial flower. It never stops blossoming.

Before I met you, I thought I was happy, but now I realize I didn't know what happiness was.

The way I love you can't be measured or counted. Just when I think I couldn't possibly love you anymore, you always show me that I can.

I thought I had my goals in place, but now my number one goal is to hold your hand for the rest of my life.

No matter how many years go by, the sound of your voice still gives me butterflies. You are my world and I love to have you by my side.

When I say you're one of a kind, I mean that no one on this planet can compare to the incredible heart and soul you have.

Who knew one smile could make me feel alive?

Your love is the only air I need.

I never thought I could put love into words, and then I met you.

If you look in the dictionary for the definition of love, you'll find a description of me and you.

• How to Flirt Overt Text: Cute & Clever Examples

Caring Messages to Show Someone You Love Them Over Text

If you're looking for a way to tell someone you care about them over text, these are perfect for the days when they need a pick-me-up. When you're overwhelmed with love for your person, share these sweet text messages.

I never knew what love meant until the day you walked into my life. You are the reason I get up in the morning, and your smile is like air. I love you. I adore you. I want to be with you forever.

I never thought in the long-term until I met you, and now I can't stop fantasizing about what our future's going to look like.

You're the reason I open and close my eyes, smiling.

Every day my love for you grows a little deeper. More than giving you my heart, I want to give you my soul.

It's in the little moments from the brush of your hand to the radiance of your smile that another piece of my heart becomes filled with you.

There might be millions of fish in the sea, but I'm blind to everyone else by the radiance of your beauty.

My world was different colors of gray until you showed me the beauty of color with the depth of your love.

I didn't know that a heart could simultaneously melt and swell until you smiled at me.

When the world pounds at me like waves in the night, your love shows me the beauty of the stars.

Fun "I Love You" Texts To Surprise Your Partner With

Sending a text message to communicate your love doesn't have to be cheesy or sappy. Sometimes we shy away from being intentionally emotional, but there are other ways to tell someone that you love them. One way is to keep it fun by sending these playful love notes to your partner.

Baby, to me, you shine brighter than a star - you're a supernova.

The only thing I'd ever change about you is your last name.

Just to be fair to the rest of my family, I've decided to only love you on days that end in Y.

You're just like a painting because a true master created every piece of you.

I know I need to do things today, but it's tough to remember them when my mind is full of nothing but you.

Do you know what time it is? Time to tell you I love you.

I love you more than (insert favorite food). Now that says it all.

Now, I fully understand the meaning behind "love is blind." You shine so brightly it's hard for me to see anything else.

I'm not dying to love you; I'm living to love you every day.

I don't want you to be the Romeo to my Juliet. I just want you to be my happily ever after.

Tips for Sending Love-Loaded Texts

Knowing how to send a sweet text can brighten your partner's day, but there are a few things you should consider before you send out the wrong heartfelt message at an ill-timed moment.

Authenticity Is the Number One Rule

When we're bombarded by so many different opinions and ideas about what the perfect relationship looks like and what the ideal way to communicate with your partner is, it can be hard to know which approach to take. The best thing you can do is ignore all of the noise, and focus on being 100 percent authentic to how you're feeling. Laying your cards out on the table and expressing the depth of your feelings to your partner will show them that you're a safe person to be emotional and intimate with.

Be Careful About Your Timing

With texts, timing is everything. The last thing you want is to tell someone your feelings for the first time and have them be in a meeting, or hopping onto a plane, or going through a rough patch at work. You want to make sure the moment is right for whatever text you're trying to send. Silly and funny ones are perfect to pepper throughout the day, but you should wait to send intimate ones when they can really enjoy the feelings that they stir up.

Don't Avoid Saying It in Person

Texting's just so easy that it's becomes a default way of talking to your partner for many people. Because of this, sometimes you can forget to have a meaningful conversation with them face-to-face. This can be especially true for long-distance relationships. But, an "I love you" text shouldn't be used in the place of saying it in person. Rather, it's a quick way to supplement your verbal declarations.

Texting Keeps the Fire Burning

No matter what stage of a relationship you're in, texting can help you stay in contact and strengthen your connection with that special person in your life. While it can sometimes lean towards the impersonal, texting your love to your partner can be a great way to keep that romantic fire lit, even when neither of you is around!

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12 Creative Ways to Say "I Love You"

By Melissa Mann and Lindsey Unterberger

Whether you're gearing up to say those three little words for the very first time or you're looking for a new way to get the message across, check out the sweetest "I Love You" gifts on the Web—some are even free, just like the original.

Get him into a coed shower

Swap your man's everyday soap with an "I love you" one. SoapSaysIt lets you choose your bar's message, color and shape. If you're feeling a little naughty, opt for a saying like "Meet me in the shower" or "Rub me the right way." Trust us, he'll thank you for the racy start to his morning—especially if you suds up with him.

Soaps start at $10, soapsaysit.com

We'll toast to this

Don't have time for an elaborate breakfast in bed? This toast stamper (yep, you read that correctly) lets you make your romantic mark even if you're both on your way out the door. Press the tool down on the piece of bread, release it and pop the slice in the toaster.

$6, fredflare.com

This one is for you, long-distance lovers! If you don't buy that old absence-makes-the-heart-grow-fonder adage, send your coffee-drinking sweetheart a Postcup. Designer Re Jin Lee will take your message and hand-paint it on a ceramic mug that looks like a cylindrical postcard, complete with a faux postage stamp and a spot to include an address. The front, of course, can say "Love You."

$50, baileysdoesntbark.com

Be my anti-Valentine

Even the biggest Cupid-haters deserve some love on Valentine's Day. Steer clear of all things red, pink, chocolate, heart-shaped and/or remotely warm and fuzzy by sending him a note from someecards.com. A few classic e-card examples from the site: "Someday I'd like you to be my emergency contact person" and "I love you like a cannibal loves human flesh." Aww.

Free!, someecards.com

Show friendship a little love

You probably say those magic words to your boyfriend, your mom—even your dog!—multiple times a day, but how often do you tell your best friend? Make sure she always knows how important she is to you with this set of three berry-scented candles.

$30, redenvelope.com

Eat your heart out

Miranda wasn't a fan of the I-love-you cookie cake when Robert gave her one on Sex and the City , but we always thought the gesture was oh so sweet. Cookie creator Mrs. Fields will customize the one you order with the message of your choice. You know, in case you want to say "I love you" in French or something. (It's je t'aime for those of you getting ready to Google.)

$35, mrsfields.com

Tell him he's the only one you heart

Yeah, yeah, New York knows a lot people love it—they say so on their T-shirts. Give the NY initials a rest (unless your boyfriend's name is Nate Young ) and personalize an "I heart" tee with your lover's letters. The price tag seems steep at first, but makers Dahl & Dane use only organic material and will even let you keep the silkscreen they make. Still in a recessionista state of mind? Make your own like our Smitten blogger did .

$58, thereslifeinthislandyet.com

Love letters

If you're lucky enough to be with someone who has a deep appreciation for the English language, you might have to take your romantic vocabulary outside the standard I-love-you box. Get started by using My Dear Valentine's customized love quote tool. Choose whom the quote is for, and choose words you'd like to include from the drop-down menus—or write in your own. When you hit Submit, love quotes inspired by you (or at least your word choices) will appear. Be careful: It's addictive!

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Wear your heart on your wrist

Give yourself a treat this Valentine's Day by splurging on one of these adorable love bracelets. Or get into the spirit free: When you browse avanessi.com, you'll be serenaded by the Beatles' "All You Need Is Love" while you shop.

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Surprise him at work

Nothing says "I love you" like sending a sexy message to your guy at work (provided he opens his own mail!). Sendapantygram will deliver a pair of red undies along with an anonymous message, and by signing online, he can find out who his "secret admirer" is. We're betting he'll take off early when he gets this gift.

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Charm him with chocolate

Satisfy his sweet tooth and prove you know what he likes by giving him a customizable chocolate bar. You can add up to five toppings, ranging from dried fruits and candy to organic mint leaves. Up the "I love you" factor by giving yours a sweet name that gets printed on the label.

Chocolate bars start at $7.90, createmychocolate.com

By Taylor Bryant

By Christopher Rosa

By Malia Griggs

When To Say 'I Love You'—And The Best Way To Do It For The First Time

The struggle is so real.

“When you say ‘I love you’ to another person, you make yourself vulnerable to hurt and rejection, and that doesn’t feel good,” says Terri Orbuch, PhD, relationship expert and author of Finding Love Again: 6 Simple Steps to a New and Happy Relationship . “You put yourself out there by sharing a feeling, and it is only natural to be anxious that the other person might not feel the same as you.”

But even if you just want to get those feelings off your chest and don’t necessarily expect that certain someone to feel the same way, saying “I love you” for the first time can still be a daunting task. Those three little words hold so much weight, and it can be scary to confess such a deep emotion to another human being.

But there is some good news when it comes to dropping the L bomb: “The way everyone falls in love is unique and there’s no right or wrong way to do it,” says Women’s Health advisor and licensed psychologist Chloe Carmichael, PhD.

Meet the Experts: Terri Orbuch , PhD is a relationship expert, professor at Oakland University, and author of Finding Love Again: 6 Simple Steps to a New and Happy Relationship . Chloe Carmichael , PhD is a licensed psychologist and Women's Health advisor. Irina Firstein , LCSW is a couples therapist in New York City. Rebecca Hendrix , LMFT is a marriage and family therapist in New York State.

Still, there are a few caveats to consider before saying those three little words. Ahead, relationship experts share everything you need to know.

How do I know I’m in love, anyway?

Okay, so...how do you know you’re actually in love ? The line between lust and love can sometimes feel a bit blurry, but there are four science-based signs you’re actually in love, per Orbuch. The first sign is connection: Do you get happy when your partner gets along well with your family and friends? Do you like showing off your partner to everyone you know, including your hair colorist or your mailman? If so, you’ve probably been hit with Cupid’s arrow, Orbuch says.

Another telltale sign: If you find yourself using “we” language when referring to yourself and your partner, she says. “When you’re in love with someone, your lives become intertwined,” explains Orbuch. If you frequently think about you and your partner as a couple or unit, that’s another green flag .

A third indicator you’re feeling the love is that you feel comfortable sharing personal information and secrets with that special someone—even the miniscule details of your day that you don’t bother telling anyone else. “When you’re in love, it motivates you to share extensive personal, often confidential, information with your partner,” Orbuch says. “You feel an urge to share things about your childhood, desires, feelings, and aspirations for the future.” Aw .

Lastly, interdependence—or a healthy and mutual respect, bond, and consideration of your partner—may mean you’re ready to utter those three little words. “When two people love each other, what one partner does or wants to do influences the other partner in strong and meaningful ways,” she explains. For example, say you were thinking about moving to another city for work or contemplating another big life change. “If you’re in love,” Orbuch says, “you would want to involve your partner in those decisions.”

Feeling the love yet? If so, you might be ready to say “I love you.”

When is the right time to say "I love you"?

"I don't think saying 'I love you' means a lifetime [of] commitment, but the statement is serious," say Irina Firstein, LCSW, a couples therapist in New York City. So, it's not a bad idea to do a self check-in to make sure now is the right time for you .

Generally, though, the right time is usually when there's been clear signs of reciprocity. No one wants to blurt out those three words without the slightest clue if their partner will say them back. But even if you aren't entirely positive that they will, you should at least be sure that your relationship has been moving at a mutually satisfying pace, and that real feelings are there.

That's why Rebecca Hendrix, LMFT, recommends first anticipating what these words mean for both you and your partner. Saying "I love you" could just mean "I think you are great" to one person, and "I am feeling so full of love for you, and I hope you will be in my life for a very long time" to another, she says.

"Before you utter these words, try to make sure you know where they are coming from inside of you and try to imagine what these words might mean to your person," Hendrix says. "You are ready to say these words when your relationship has moved from the magical fairy dust stage into a real partnership, where you see both the good and challenging aspects of each other and love each other more for both." That's where you're coming from? Great! Onward.

Should you say it first?

Well, "someone has to say it first," Firstein says. So, don't feel intimidated if you've been waiting for your partner to say those three little words. It's possible that they are having the same hesitation you are, not because they don't feel it, but because they want to know if you do first.

"Love is a beautiful feeling, and if you feel it and have thought it through, share it! Even in the off chance your partner isn’t ready to say it back, it is still a beautiful sentiment to receive," Hendrix says.

What is the best way to say I love you?

"The best way to say I love you is the way that is best for you and your partner," Hendrix says. And how exactly are you supposed to figure that out? Two words: love language.

In case you've been living under a love-deprived rock, you probably have heard of Gary Chapman, the author of The 5 Love Languages, who created a test for couples to learn how they each show and receive love. The languages include words of affirmation , acts of service , receiving gifts (yes, please!), quality time , and physical touch . But when it comes to saying "I love you" for the first time, the general consensus is definitely to say it (not just show it).

"For many women, it’s important that their partner speak the words to them first because it's important to hear an escalation of the relationship," Carmichael says. But she also tells her clients who are worried about rejection that it's okay to couch the phrase a bit.

"Talk about it and articulate it, but in a way that gives you a little bit of a buffer," Carmichael suggests. Instead of saying "I love you," you could tee it up with, "I really like you," or "I love spending time with you." This can also help you get used to the idea of expressing these serious feelings to your partner.

This slightly milder, less bare-it-all approach gives you an opportunity to learn whether or not this relationship and your partner has the capacity for love. "Love is a process," Carmichael says. "It should be a collaborative process of learning together and talking about your feelings deepening gradually and finding that it's happening for you mutually.” (At least, that's the ideal situation...)

Hendrix recommends adding in some words that further define what those feelings mean to you, to avoid any misunderstandings.

"If it is a romantic declaration of a deeper level of caring, then you may want to follow up with some words like, 'I feel so deeply for you and can’t imagine you not in my life,'" she says. "If it’s more of letting the person know you think they are special, you may follow up with words like 'I adore you and think you are a really special person.'"

Is there ever a wrong time to say I love you?

Every couple is different, and there's no wrong time to say "I love you," per se. But there are some scenarios in which your words might come off as more of a red flag than a red-hot heart.

• Saying it too soon : "In a romantic way, saying 'I love you' for the first time is usually something that is said when you both know each other well and are falling in love with each other and plan to make a long-term go at your relationship," Hendrix says. "Saying this too soon may disrespect the love you are building and send a message that you don’t know how to 'do' relationships—or that you might not know the difference between love and lust." Eek.
• Saying it during sex or while drunk : Declaring your love during sex is normal, Carmichael says, considering how passionate and intimate the moment is. So it shouldn't necessarily be seen as a bad thing. But, "saying it in a sexual situation naturally raises questions," Firstein says, mostly because it's not the, uh, clearest-minded moment. And Hendrix agrees: "If someone says they love you for the first time during sex or when they are drunk [or in some other way impaired], you might not take it seriously any more than you would if your friend told you she was going to move to Paris after she had four glasses of rosé," Hendrix says. "It doesn’t mean she won’t be moving to Paris, it just means you want to reconfirm that this is true the next day!"
• Saying it only over text message : "If a lot of your relationship takes place over text, maybe you share your sentiments via text," Hendrix says. The problem becomes when your partner is unwilling to say those three words outside of texting. "That's when you need to have a conversation and ask in a compassionate, non-accusatory way why they don't feel comfortable saying 'I love you' in person," Carmichael says. Some people struggle with the verbalization of it (perhaps it wasn't said often in their childhood home), so if it bothers you, have a mature chat about it.

What do you do if they don't say it back?

"There is not much to do," Firstein says."It usually means that the other person either does not feel same or wants to be sure they feel same." So, it's not necessarily bad news, she notes. If the other person isn't completely sure they feel the same way, sometimes they just need time to process and really understand their feelings. (That's always a good thing.)

On the other hand, if they're certain that they "can't get there with you" as Bachelor Nation would say, "acknowledge yourself for having the courage to say 'I love you' and for being someone who can not only feel this intense emotion, but also share it," Hendrix says. That's seriously commendable.

If you have found yourself in the middle of unrequited love , Carmichael encourages you to "ask yourself how you became so open to someone who didn’t reciprocate, and ask if there were signs along the way that you just kind of ignored." Combing through this can help you avoid getting overly attached to someone who hasn't done the same with you, to prevent unnecessary pain in the future.

In the end, "the wound of unrequited love is often a self-healing wound," and you'll be just fine. Remember that you deserve someone who wants you the way you want them and loves you the way you love them, and nothing less than that will do.

And in moments of struggle? Grab that pint of vegan ice cream , watch your favorite rom-com , and move on. Just don't forget to say 'I love you' to the person who needs to hear it most: you .

Alexis Jones is an assistant editor at Women's Health where she writes across several verticals on WomensHealthmag.com , including life, health, sex and love, relationships and fitness, while also contributing to the print magazine. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Syracuse University, lives in Brooklyn, and proudly detests avocados.

Zoë Hecht is a California-based writer and editor who enjoys writing about beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and pop culture. She graduated from Loyola Marymount University, where she received her B.A. in English. Other than Women’s Health, her work can be found on Byrdie, Teen Vogue, and more. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, sipping coffee, and scrolling through Pinterest.

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Wondering When to Say “I Love You”? Here’s How to Know If You’re Ready

Well, more or less. Love is not an exact science.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

So what do you do if thoughts of falling in love are fizzing wildly inside of you, dying to spill out, but you’re caught in the space of “Should I say I love you, or should I...not?” And you fear inciting a re-creation of the dreadful moment in Sex and the City when Carrie impulsively blurts out an awkward “I love you” after Big gifts her a crystalline duck-shaped handbag, and he then mumbles, “You’re welcome” in response—before fleeing the scene.

While all great love stories are nuanced and should be allowed to unfold organically, we sought guidance from the experts to help you determine if the right time to say “I love you” first is now, later…or never.

First thing’s first: How soon is too soon?

The answer is, admittedly, relatively unsatisfying. “There isn’t a particular amount of time to consider as the right time,” says Sofia Robirosa , a relationship therapist in Miami. “The time that it takes to understand whether the feeling of love is real love or infatuation varies vastly on the amount of quality time spent as a couple and situations that may show through actions that love is being exercised.” Because of that, the right time is based on the evolution of the individual relationship.

There are, however, some signs that it may be too soon to say I love you.

And it all boils down to not knowing each other well enough, says Robirosa.

• You don’t how how they treat others and their family. “ A huge indicator of how a person will treat you for years to come is to see how they treat their family and close friends, and also strangers,” she says. If a person is regularly demeaning and conflictual, you can expect the same to happen in your romantic relationship.
• You don’t dig deep. We all need to have fun, but a very good indicator of love is spending time “doing life,” says Robirosa. That means doing the mundane things—accomplishing responsibilities and goals, as well as experiencing difficult things together and seeing how the person responds.

If you’re considering saying “I love you,” do a temperature check first.

Jenn Mann , psychotherapist, host of VH1’s Couples Therapy with Dr. Jenn and author of The Relationship Fix , advises that you gauge the temperature of your relationship before you entertain the thought of saying “I love you.” Specifically, determine if your time spent together ever dips from hot to cold, or if your bond is more like a slow-burning ember of mutual commitment.

Because in our modern day, there are a multitude of things tugging at us constantly, asking to lure our attention—from open relationships to tantalizing strangers on social media and dating apps . “If someone is willing to be exclusive with you, or at least consider you their primary partner when monogamy is not the goal , then that’s a good signal there is a depth to the relationship that is at least leading in the direction of love,” says Mann.

But before you spout off in a moment of passion, she advises that you sit with the feeling and become aware of what your expectations are surrounding it. “For some people, the expectation is: ‘Oay, I say it and you say it, and that means we’re instantly in a committed relationship.’ For others, the expectation may be entirely different—perhaps that it’s simply a deepening friendship.”

Finally, you need to imagine how you will feel if the sentiment isn’t reciprocated. “In many situations, it may be that you’re dying to confess your truth. Maybe you feel as though you can no longer hold it in, and while you hope it will be returned, you are willing to accept the situation if it isn’t,” says Mann. “That’s the most ideal headspace to be in.”

Ask yourself: Are you sure it’s love?

The thrill of a new relationship starts with the rousing of initial intrigue, the attraction that renders you dizzy, and the fun of linking arms with someone who enjoys your favorite activities. Mann says infatuation often serves as a mask of projection that looks enticingly like love but isn’t at all. In other words, just because you and your partner have stars in your eyes for each other, and share a mutual fondness for baked ziti pizza and ’ 90s rom-coms doesn’t mean you’ve entered into something as complex and enduring as love.

“Too many people declare their love during the honeymoon stage, which is primarily the first six to 18 months of a relationship. The problem is, in most cases, you may not yet know what you’ve got. During this phase, many people are blinded by the excitement,” says Mann. “This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, because you should enjoy it, but don’t be too quick to call it something it hasn’t had time to become.”

Because love isn’t always cinematic. It’s more so a process that crawls into the dungeons of reality with you—building connection, presence, and trust over time. It’s when your partner hears you coughing from the bathroom in the dark hours and stumbles out of bed to bring you a glass of water. Or when you have an ill parent, and they drop their sun-drenched-vacation plans to be by your side so that you don’t have to endure it alone. “Love is much more significant and sacrificing than hot sex and the things that thrill us,” says Mann.

Monica Berg , spiritual thought leader, chief communications officer of the Kabbalah Centre and author of the upcoming book Rethink Love: 3 Steps to Being the One, Attracting the One, and Becoming One, says to never utter those words before turning within. “It’s essential to examine the relationship you have with yourself before you tell another person you love them,” she says.

And consider your motivations.

Berg suggests getting radically honest with yourself—dysfunctional patterns and all. “You’ve got to make sure that your motivations for saying ‘I love you’ are fueled by a genuine expression of love, and are not being driven by desperation or loneliness ,” she says.

Mann agrees, explaining that we often develop habits of seeking a relationship to fulfill needs that only we can satisfy. For example, you may believe you are in pursuit of love when, instead, you are unconsciously seeking an emotional crutch, or a happy distraction.

Kevin Gilliland , PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist who counsels couples, finds that our vulnerabilities threaten to deceive us. “If you’re coming out of a difficult season in your life, you may find someone who brings you a lot of happiness, quickly feeling the impulse to say ‘I love you.’ But much of the time what you’re really saying is, ‘I’m hurting, and I’m lonely, and I need to be linked up with someone who will care about me,’” he says. “While it may feel good in the moment, misdirected feelings can create problems later on.”

Choose the right moment.

The right time to say “I love you” is less about a concrete amount of time and more about being able to discern whether the feeling is love or infatuation, says Robirosa. “The difference between one and the other is that the former indicates that one fully accepts—flaws and all, and is fond of their partner.”

Ideally, saying “I love you“ for the first time should be an intimate moment free from any obligation. You might reconsider plans to say it when:

• There’s an obvious lack of commitment
• You feel pressured
• There are signs of abusive or unkind treatment
• You’re under the influence

Be prepared: Your words may not be reciprocated.

Perhaps you come from a family who tosses around “I love you” freely—before ending a phone call or while exchanging a goodbye hug. But your significant other may be more reserved, only calling upon those words sparingly—perhaps during occasions of immense celebration or when gripped by the finality of death. For some, it’s a phrase that's much like a treasure kept locked away, only brought to light and passed around during times of significance. For others, it’s as freely exchanged as “Pass the salt.”

So in the event that you say it and it isn’t reciprocated, Mann suggests taking a deep breath before you panic—because it’s not necessarily a sign of impending doom. “Some people are cautious in expressing how they feel—especially if they have experienced a great deal of rejection or come from a family where those words were rarely used. So deciding when it’s time to say it is mostly about tuning into the unique expressions and personality of the individual you’re involved with,” she says.

Saying “I love you” too soon could impact your relationship.

Mann says that confessing those words too soon may derail a relationship that is on an otherwise progressive track—but not when the investment is already solid.

“Even if a person isn’t quite ready to say ‘I love you’ after hearing it from their significant other, if they are truly looking toward a future with them, it's unlikely to scare them away. However, if someone is on the fence about the relationship, is perhaps a bit emotionally immature, or is negatively triggered by those words, it could scare them off,” says Mann. “But this, again, goes back to being tuned into your partner’s behavior and history.”

Of course women can say it first.

Generation is undeniably a factor to consider when it comes to styles of expressing love, though the question of gender isn’t so relevant in our modern day, says Mann.

Although individuals in their late 40s and 50s are more likely to move along with the traditional gender stereotypes that advise a man to lead the way—wooing his partner with chivalry and being the first to announce his love—this isn’t so with younger generations. “Both men and women in their 20s and early 30s are more aware of their options and may even be less likely to commit, in general. But, interestingly, studies show that men in the younger generation are able to express their emotions much more freely, as well as receive them more comfortably,” says Mann. “So, that considered, it wouldn’t at all be alarming to a male of the younger generation if his female partner said ‘I love you’ first.”

But what about when you’re in a long-distance relationship?

When most of your interactions take place via a messaging app, FaceTime, or Skype, it isn’t unusual at all for your first “I love you” to be of the digital variety. So you don’t necessarily have to wait to say it until you’re together in the flesh. But you should be aware of some potential dangers.

Long-distance love “may increase your hunger for a person. It also doesn’t hurt that you’re not seeing them leave their dirty underwear on the floor,” says Mann. Still, certain long-distance relationships may move at a rapid pace emotionally because there isn’t the smokescreen of physical interaction. When sex is forced to wait, more meaningful conversations are invited to enter the relationship. “I think, most significantly, if there is a truly deep connection, long-distance love may develop faster than usual because the parties are forced to communicate and learn about each other beyond the surface things,” says Mann.

At the end of the day, should one statement have the power to define our romantic relationships?

Should “I love you” be upheld as the proverbial relationship “crossing over” moment? Is it genuinely a milestone that lives up to its hype? Not in a literal sense, but again, it’s important to be aware that many people will see it this way, so adjust your intentions accordingly. The climate may change in the aftermath of those words being exchanged—becoming one filled with expectations.

“When you move from interest to infatuation to love, many people start to feel a bit anxious. They may think they can’t contain their emotions for that person any longer. But you need to ask yourself if you’re prepared to follow through with loving behavior on the other side of saying those words,” says Gilliland.

...because the real work begins after—not before—“I love you” is exchanged.

We often invest inconceivable amounts of energy and strategy into searching for a soul mate. Maybe you’ve gone on a slew of clumsy Tinder dates, or allowed your mom or co-workers to play Cupid in ways that have resulted in disastrous episodes of hilarity. Or perhaps you have found the person you believe to be your shining one-and-only, and are working daily to nurture the connection between the two of you.

Berg says that while being conscious during the dawn of a relationship absolutely matters, investing in a relationship long-term is when the real work begins— after , not before, the luster has begun to fade. “It’s important to ask yourself: ‘What level of responsibility am I willing to bring to this?’ Because ‘I love you’ is easy to say but harder to practice long-term,” she says. “We live in a society where love is romanticized in the movies. But the truth is that the real work—the essence of the love story— starts as soon as the movie ends.”

For more stories like this, sign up for our newsletter .

Lacey Johnson is a writer and editor whose has contributed to Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Woman’s Day, POPSUGAR and others, and is the founder of The Wonder Report. She feels most at home in airports, and is a radical seeker of engrossing conversation. Also a coffee connoisseur.

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How To Say I Love You: 7 Unexpected & Unique Ways

Here are seven ideas for how to say I love you in a fun and creative way.

Looking for memorable, creative ways to bare your heart and tell someone you’re in love? Here are seven ideas for how to say I love you in a fun, unexpected way.

Have you told someone “I love you” today? Don’t wait for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, birthdays, or special occasions to express how you feel. Any day is a good day to say “I love you” to our spouses, partners, and all those we hold near and dear to our hearts.

If you’re looking for some creative and unique ways to confess your love on a special day, or any other day of the year, we’ve put together a list of the sweetest ways to show your love and affection. We’ve got you covered, whether you’re trying to say the three little words for the very first time or are just looking for a new way to express how deeply you feel.

Try one, or try them all, and get the sparks flying!

1. Small acts of kindness

We all know actions can speak louder than words, and what you do for your significant other can have a big impact. If you know he’s always rushing in the morning, make him a cup of coffee to go so he doesn’t have to. If you know she loves pancakes or waffles , make her breakfast in bed on Sunday. It might not be much, but it’s the little thoughtful, caring actions that count the most. The hot cup of coffee and yummy breakfast will do the talking for you, but you should also include a few loving words.

Here are a few short and sweet ways to express your love.

• I made you your favorite!
• The secret ingredient is love.
• You are my everything.
• I’m forever yours.
• I adore you.
• I will always be here for you.
• You are my favorite.
• You are my person.
• You warm my soul.
• You are my world.

2. Your own secret traditions

Start a special ritual that helps you connect in a small but meaningful way, such as always kissing before you leave for the day or kissing as soon as one of you comes home. This can be a unique way to say “I love you” on a daily basis that doesn’t involve words. Some couples always kiss three times, or have a special kiss that connects them. Other couples have a secret wink or blow kisses at each other. Whatever you choose to do, make it a tradition by always remembering about it.

If you’re looking to incorporate some words in your secret tradition, here are some fun options.

• I’m crazy about you.
• You are the love of my life.
• I would be lost without you.
• Kiss me. Then kiss me again.
• Always kiss me goodnight.
• I still fall for you, every day.
• You’re my person.
• You’re my soulmate.
• You complete me.
• I miss you.

4. A little unexpected love note

It’s amazing what a tiny piece of paper can accomplish. You don’t have to bare your heart or write a poem. Just jot down a few sweet nothings on an ordinary piece of paper and tuck it in his jacket pocket, or her purse, or leave it somewhere obvious for them to find. It’s such a simple yet effective way to show love sweetly and unexpectedly.

Here are some love note ideas to get you started.

• Every love story is beautiful, but ours is my favorite.
• I love the way you make me feel, even when you’re not here.
• You are the best thing that has ever happened to me.
• You make me want to be a better person.
• With you, everything feels possible.
• We were meant to be together.
• And suddenly, you were my everything.
• You are my happily ever after.
• Together is my favorite place to be.
• p.s. I love you.

5. I love you texts & messages

Another twist on the love note idea is a quick text message that lets them know they’re on your mind. It can be as simple as “Thinking of you” or “You looked great last night,” or an emoji blowing a kiss. It’s not so much about what you say but that you remember to say it. The fact that you’ve found the time to think of your sweetheart during your busy day to send a love note is what’s important.

Here are some examples of text messages you can send your special soemone.

• I love you more.
• I have a crush on you.
• I will always choose you.
• All of me, loves all of you.
• You’re all I need.
• You and me… every day.

6. Say “I love you” out of the blue

Some of the best “I love yous” come when they’re least expected. So don’t plan on when and how to say those three precious little words, just blurt them out whenever the mood strikes you. At the supermarket? Tell her you love her while picking out the apples. At home having dinner? Tell him you love him while eating spaghetti and watching TV. Hearing that they’re loved during the most mundane moments of our everyday lives can make any day more memorable and special.

Here are some of our favorite, spontaneous “I love yous.”

• I have fallen in love many times, always with you.
• As long as you’re in my life, I know we’ll always be okay.
• You will forever be my always.
• Our love is written in the stars.
• I love you more than any words can say.

7. I love you because…

Say “I love you” in a new way every time the mood strikes you with this fun free “I love you because…” printable . Just insert it into any picture frame and use the glass front as a dry erase board to tell your sweetheart exactly how you feel. It’s such a sweet and simple way to remind your significant other that you love and appreciate them.

Here are some more “fill in the blank” ideas.

• I love you more than… (coffee, pizza, football, chocolate, etc.)
• We go together like… (peanut butter & jelly, milk & cookies, rock & roll, etc.)
• You, me, and… (the dog, our getaway weekend, etc.)
• I love that you’re my… (boyfriend, girlfriend, favorite person to talk to, etc.)

Kasia Lorenc is a writer and editor at Personalization Mall, covering gifting, home decorating and more.

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Psychologily

When to Say I Love You: A Psychologist’s Guide to Timing Your Confession

When it comes to expressing love, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of “When to Say I Love You?”. Timing can vary greatly depending on the individuals involved, the stage of the relationship, and personal preferences. However, it’s important to consider the potential impact of these three words on both yourself and your partner.

While it can be tempting to rush into proclaiming your love, doing so too soon can put unnecessary pressure on you and your partner. It’s important to take the time to build a foundation of trust, intimacy, and commitment before expressing such strong emotions. On the other hand, waiting too long to say “I love you” can also have negative consequences, such as missed opportunities to deepen the connection and feelings of insecurity or doubt.

Ultimately, deciding when to say “I love you” should feel suitable for you and your partner. It’s important to consider your feelings and your partner’s and communicate openly and honestly throughout the relationship. In the following sections, we will explore some common patterns, signs, and reactions to confessing your feelings, as well as some tips on how to move forward after a breakup or a fight.

Understanding Love

Love is a complex and multifaceted emotion that can be difficult to define. It is often described as deep affection, intense attraction, or strong attachment towards someone. However, love can take many different forms and can be experienced in various relationships, such as romantic, familial, or platonic.

Defining Love

Various emotions, behaviors, and physiological responses can characterize love. Some common signs of love include:

• Feeling a sense of warmth or comfort around the person
• Wanting to spend time with them and prioritize their needs
• Feeling a sense of happiness or joy when thinking about them or being with them
• Experiencing physical sensations such as butterflies in the stomach, racing heart, or sweaty palms
• Feeling a strong desire to be close to them, both emotionally and physically

It is important to note that love is different from infatuation or lust. Infatuation is a short-lived, intense attraction towards someone, while lust is a strong desire for sexual gratification. On the other hand, love involves a deeper emotional connection and a willingness to commit to the other person.

Importance of Timing

Timing is an essential factor to consider when it comes to expressing love. While there is no set timeline for when to say “I love you,” it is important to ensure that you are genuinely ready to express those feelings and that the other person is receptive to hearing them.

Expressing love too early in a relationship can be overwhelming and may scare the other person away. On the other hand, waiting too long to express your feelings can lead to frustration or confusion in the relationship.

It is essential to take the time to get to know the other person and build a solid emotional connection before expressing love. This can involve spending time together, sharing personal stories and experiences, and being open and honest.

In conclusion, understanding love involves recognizing its many different forms and characteristics and the importance of timing when expressing those feelings. Building a strong emotional connection and being mindful of the other person’s emotions can cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships based on love and mutual respect.

When to Say I Love You: Recognizing the Right Time

When saying “I love you,” timing is everything. Recognizing the right time to say those three little words can be tricky, but there are a few things to consider before taking the plunge.

Emotional Readiness

The first thing to consider is emotional readiness . Are you indeed ready to say “I love you?” It’s important to take some time to reflect on your feelings and ensure they are genuine. Saying “I love you” for the first time can be a big step in a relationship, so it’s essential to ensure you’re not just saying it because you feel like you should.

Stability in Relationship

Another vital factor to consider is the stability of your relationship. Saying “I love you” can be a vulnerable moment, so ensuring your connection is stable enough to handle it is essential. Have you been dating for a while? Have you had meaningful conversations about your future together? These are all critical things to consider before saying, “I love you.”

In conclusion, recognizing the right time to say “I love you” can be a challenge, but taking the time to consider your emotional readiness and the stability of your relationship can help you make the right decision. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, so trust your instincts and let your heart guide you.

When to Say I Love You: Common Misconceptions

When saying “I love you,” many misconceptions can lead to confusion or hurt feelings. Here are a few common myths about expressing love and why they are not always accurate.

Myth #1: You Should Wait for the Other Person to Say It First

Many believe waiting for their partner to say “I love you” before expressing their feelings is best. However, this can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety. It is important to remember that everyone moves at their own pace when expressing their emotions. If you feel ready to say “I love you,” don’t hesitate to take the initiative.

Myth #2: Saying “I Love You” Too Soon Will Scare Them Away

While it is true that some people may feel overwhelmed if their partner says “I love you” too soon, this does not mean that you should hold back your feelings. Being honest with yourself and your partner about how you feel is essential. If your partner genuinely interests you, they will appreciate your honesty and vulnerability.

Myth #3: Saying “I Love You” Means You Want to Get Married

Expressing love does not automatically mean you want to marry or spend the rest of your life with someone. Love can take many forms, and it is important to communicate your intentions clearly with your partner. If you are not ready for a long-term commitment, it is okay to say “I love you” without any expectations.

Myth #4: Saying “I Love You” Will Fix All Relationship Problems

While expressing love can undoubtedly strengthen a relationship, it is not a magic solution to all problems. It is essential to address issues and communicate openly with your partner, even if it is uncomfortable or difficult. Saying “I love you” should reflect your feelings, not a way to avoid dealing with problems.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to express love. It is important to be true to yourself and your feelings and to communicate openly and honestly with your partner. By dispelling these common misconceptions, you can approach saying “I love you” with confidence and clarity.

When to Say I Love You: Factors to Consider

When saying “I love you” for the first time, it’s important to consider a few factors before leaping. Here are two key factors to keep in mind:

Your Partner’s Feelings

Before you say “I love you,” it’s essential to consider your partner’s feelings. While you may be ready to express your love, your partner may not be at the same place in the relationship. It’s essential to ensure your partner is prepared to hear those three little words before you say them.

One way to gauge your partner’s feelings is to pay attention to their actions and words. Are they affectionate with you? Do they express their feelings for you in other ways? If so, they may be ready to hear that you love them. However, if they seem distant or hesitant to express their feelings, it may be best to wait a little longer before saying “I love you.”

The Pace of Your Relationship

Another important factor to consider before saying “I love you” is the pace of your relationship. Every relationship moves at its own pace, and ensuring you’re both on the same page before expressing your love is essential.

If you’ve only been dating for a few weeks or months, it may be too soon to say, “I love you.” However, it may be the right time to express your feelings if you’ve been together for a while and have developed a strong connection.

It’s also important to consider how often you see each other and how much time you spend together. If you only see each other once a week, developing strong feelings may take longer than seeing each other daily.

Overall, before saying “I love you,” it’s essential to consider your partner’s feelings and the pace of your relationship. By thinking things through, you’ll be more likely to express your love at the right time and in the right way.

When Not to Say I Love You

As much as we all want to express our love to our partners, there are times when saying “I love you” might not be the best idea. Here are a few instances when you should hold back on saying those three words:

• Too Soon:  If you’ve only been dating briefly, saying “I love you” might come across as insincere or rushed. It’s important to take the time to get to know your partner and build a strong foundation before expressing your love.
• During a Fight:  Saying “I love you” during an argument might diffuse the tension, but it can worsen things. Your partner might feel like you’re using the L-word to avoid dealing with the issue.
• As a Manipulative Tactic :  Using “I love you” to get your partner to do something for you is manipulative and can damage the relationship. Love should never be used as a bargaining chip.
• If You Don’t Mean It:  Saying “I love you” when you don’t mean it can hurt and damage the relationship. Being honest with yourself and your partner about your feelings is important.

Remember, saying “I love you” is a powerful statement that should be reserved for when you genuinely mean it. Don’t rush it or use it to manipulate or avoid dealing with issues in your relationship.

How to Say I Love You For the First Time

Saying “I love you” for the first time can be a nerve-wracking experience. It’s a vulnerable moment where you put yourself out and express your feelings. Here are some tips on how to say “I love you” for the first time:

• Choose the Right Moment: Timing is everything. You want to ensure that the moment is unique and that your partner is receptive to hearing those three little words. It could be after a romantic dinner, during a walk on the beach, or cuddled up on the couch.
• Be Sincere: When you say “I love you,” make sure you mean it. Please don’t say it because you feel it’s expected or want something in return. Say it because you genuinely feel it in your heart.
• Keep It Simple: You don’t need to make a grand gesture or plan an elaborate speech. Sometimes, the simplest words are the most powerful. A straightforward “I love you” can be as meaningful as a long-winded declaration.
• Don’t Expect Anything in Return: Saying “I love you” for the first time can be scary because you don’t know how your partner will respond. They may say it back, or they may not be ready to say it yet. Don’t put pressure on them to say it back. Just express your feelings and let them know how you feel.
• Follow Your Gut: Ultimately, you know your relationship better than anyone else. If you feel it’s the right time to say “I love you,” go for it. Trust your instincts and let your heart guide you.

Remember, saying “I love you” for the first time is a big step in any relationship. Take your time, choose the right moment, and be sincere. With courage and much love, you can make this moment one to remember.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should you wait to say ‘i love you’.

There is no set time frame for when you should say ‘I love you’ to someone. It depends on the individual relationship and how comfortable they feel expressing their feelings. Some people may feel ready to say it after a few weeks, while others may wait several months or longer. It’s essential to communicate with your partner and make sure you both feel ready before saying those three little words.

Is it okay to say ‘I love you’ after one month?

It’s not necessarily wrong to say ‘I love you’ after one month, but it’s essential to make sure you mean it and that your partner is on the same page. It’s also important to remember that saying ‘I love you’ doesn’t necessarily mean committing to a long-term relationship. It’s okay to express your feelings, but make sure you’re both on the same page about what the relationship means.

What are the signs that someone wants to say ‘I love you’ but is scared?

Some signs that someone may want to say ‘I love you’ but is scared include being hesitant to express their feelings, avoiding talking about the future, being distant or pulling away, and being guarded with their emotions. It’s essential to have open and honest communication with your partner to understand where they’re coming from and how they’re feeling.

Is saying ‘I love you’ too soon a red flag?

Not necessarily. It’s important to remember that everyone moves at their own pace, and there’s no set timeline for expressing your feelings. However, if someone is pressuring you to say ‘I love you’ before you’re ready or if they’re using it as a way to manipulate you, that could be a red flag. Trusting your instincts and ensuring you’re comfortable before expressing your feelings is essential.

What is the 3-month rule for saying ‘I love you’?

The three-month rule is a guideline that suggests waiting at least three months before saying ‘I love you’ to someone. The idea behind this rule is that it gives both people time to get to know each other and build a strong foundation for the relationship. However, it’s important to remember that this is just a guideline, and everyone moves at their own pace.

Why might someone not say ‘I love you’ first?

There are many reasons why someone might not say ‘I love you’ first. They may fear rejection, hurt or have a different way of expressing their feelings. It’s essential to have open and honest communication with your partner to understand where they’re coming from and how they express their feelings.

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131 Creative Ways to Say I Love You (New 2024 Ideas)

What can i say instead of i love you.

Sometimes, we need original and different ways to say I love you to the people that matter most to us.

So, below is a great list of ideas to make someone feel special and cherished.

Odds are, your words and actions will be met with appreciation and affection – strengthening your bond with your partner, kids, or friends.

Words to Say Instead of “I Love You”

First, check out this list of different ways to say I love you to your partner (or any other family member), and actions to make them feel cherished.

• I hope you know how much you mean to me.
• I am so blessed to be your partner, spouse, etc.
• I’m crazy about you.
• You mean the world to me.
• I will always be here for you.
• You are my dream come true. I prayed and hoped for you.
• It doesn’t matter what we do, I’m glad to spend the time with you.
• You are my better half.
• You are my sunshine when skies are gray.
• Thank you for always supporting me.
• You light me up.

Good Activities to Show Your Partner Love

• Send a sweet text message
• Send a romantic song or music video
• Share with them your gratitude journal when they are in it
• Flirt with your partner
• Set up a new experience to do together
• Compliment your partner
• Do something they enjoy doing
• Celebrate their accomplishments
• Make a big deal about their birthday
• Take care of them when they get sick
• Encourage them to practice self-care and give space to do so.
• Look up a few jokes and make them laugh.

Related: Love Note Jar Ideas for Couples

Funny Ways to Say I Love You

• I’ve fallen for you and I can’t get up.
• You’ve stolen a pizza my heart.
• I’m sharing this ________ only because I love you.
• What did the volcano say to the mountain? “I lava you!”
• You are like asthma. You take my breath away!
• What did one light bulb say to another? I love you watts and watts
• Knock knock. Who’s there? Owl? Owl who? Owl always love you!
• I love you with all my butt. I’d say my heart, but my butt is bigger.

Different Ways to Say I Love you to a Friend

• Even though we don’t see each other often, you are one of my dearest friends
• I’m so blessed to have you in my life
• Just wanted you to know I was thinking about you!
• Happy ___________ (Birthday, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s) Day!
• Happy Tuesday!
• I miss seeing your face!
• Congrats on your ________! (Celebrate their accomplishments!)
• Can I give you a hug?
• You inspire me!
• I admire that you are so ____________ (generous, bold, kind, etc.)
• That time we ___________ is one of my favorite memories.

Activities to Show Your Friend You Care

• Send a card using snail mail
• Send a video message to say hi or thank you
• Facetime when they need it
• Call them up and just listen
• Drop off a small plant, coffee, or another pick-me-up. Check out soothing gifts HERE .
• Text just to check-in
• Plan a friend date night
• Make them a diy self care kit
• Help them with a large project (cleaning out a house, moving, etc.)
• Make them a playlist

Related Post: How to Connect as an Adult

Cute Ways to Say I Love You to Your Child

• You are my dream come true.
• I love you from your head to your toes, knees to your nose.
• I love you more than ______________ (Curious George loves bananas, etc)
• You are my favorite ____________ (5-year old, 3 year-old, etc.) in the entire world!
• Just seeing you makes me smile.
• I love you to the moon and back.
• I love you in the evening, and in the afternoon. I love you in the morning, and underneath the moon.
• I thought of you today when I saw ____________.
• I will always be there for you, no matter what you do.

Activities to Show Love to Your Child

• Leave little love notes for them to find (free ones through the link!)
• Set up quality time to spend together
• Share a touching love quote with them
• Share something you wrote in your gratitude journal about them
• Listen without any distraction for ten minutes
• Draw a heart with jelly on their peanut butter sandwich
• Make a secret “I love you” code
• Engage in exciting and simple birthday traditions
• Be silly with them
• Plan a parent child time with these mother son date ideas

Want to Make Love a Priority in Your Home?

Check out the BEST family traditions ebook – a year-long guide full of connection building activities for the entire family! Don’t miss out on this affordable ebook before your next holiday!

See also: 37 Ways to Become a More Playful Mom

Beautiful Quotes to Express How You Feel

Sometimes, the right words have already been said. Include one of these quotes to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you.

“ The best thing to hold onto in life is each other. ” – Audrey Hepburn

“Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” – Maya Angelou

“ In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. / In all the world, there is no love for you like mine.” – Maya Angelou

If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day, so I never have to live without you. – A. A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh

“ I love you not because of who you are, but because of who I am when I am with you. ” – Roy Croft

“Do I love you? My god, if your love were a grain of sand, mine would be a universe of beaches.” – William Goldman, The Princess Bride

“I am who I am because of you.” Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook

“There is no remedy for love, but to love more.” – Thoreau

“I love you, and that’s the beginning and end of everything.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” – Charles M. Schultz

How to Say I Love You in Different Languages

Surprise your loved one with a bilingual card or expression of affection! Try one of these:

• Spanish – Te amo
• Italian – Ti amo
• French – Je T’aime
• Irish – Gráím thú 
• Hawaiian – Aloha Au Ia ʻOe
• German – Ich liebe dich

Check out omniglot for more languages and to see how they sound!

Different Ways to Say I Love You to Yourself

• Take the 30 Day self love challenge
• Pick from these love yourself affirmations to repeat daily
• Complete this self-care bingo during a weekend.
• Start a self-love journal with these thoughtful prompts

Other Ways to Say I Love You Without Words

• Make a special breakfast
• Send a thoughtful gift (Find beautiful love gifts HERE!)
• Tickle them
• Write down 10 reasons you love them (click the link for a free printable!)
• Gift a photo of the two of you
• Throw your special person a surprise party
• Give them space when they need it. We all have rough days
• Be supportive when they want to make changes in their life
• Hang out with their friends
• Show affection in public
• Pay attention to what they like

Creative Ways to Say I Love You (The 5 Languages)

Next, let’s try different ways to say I love you, using the 5 love languages. Whether it’s your partner or your child, these will be clear indicators that you care.

Words of Affirmations

• Write 10 great things about them on post-it notes and stick it to the wall
• Put notes in a jar for all the reasons you adore them
• Thank them for something extra they did in the last week
• Tell someone how great they are in front of them
• Do “14 days of love” with a small note every day
• Write on the bathroom mirror
• Write a love letter

Need help with affirmations for kids? Sign up for 14 free love notes !

Acts of Service

• Bring them coffee
• Do one of their chores
• Run an errand they need done
• Wash your partner’s car
• Cook their favorite meal
• Lighten their load in some way when they are stressed out

Quality Time

• Plan a date night
• Plan one on one time with your child
• Go for a long walk together
• Do something with them they enjoy doing (cooking, working out, etc.)
• Gift a date night basket
• Put down your phone and screens – really pay attention
• Dream and make plans and goals together
• Plan a weekend road trip or Anniversary vacation
• Spend a night playing Valentine’s Day Trivia , family feud , or doing deep couples questions

Physical Touch

• Give them a hug
• Give a shoulder massage
• Rough house with kids (tickling works too!)
• Create secret handshakes
• Give kisses (or butterfly kisses, nose kisses, etc.)
• Remember their preferences (food, drink, activities) and pick it up for them
• Print and display photos in a sweet way
• Keep a memento from an experience together and leave it on their pillow
• Gift a puzzle of a special place
• Leave a small gift in their car
• Buy them a bottle of champagne to celebrate an accomplishment
• Make a small homemade gift to give to them (like a diy crossword)
• See Gifts for the 12 Days of Christmas Song
• See this Unique Care Package for New Moms

What’s Next?

Life is short. And those we care about deserve to know how we feel. So, take these simple words and activities and use them as often as you can.

What different ways do you use to say I love you?

Other Posts for Great Relationships…

• How to Become a More Playful Mom – easy ways to have more fun!
• Small Ways to Spread Positivity Today – put a little compassion back into the world.
• A Gratitude Challenge to Deepen Your Blessings – 30 days of ideas to become more grateful

Jennifer is the founder and chief editor of Healthy Happy Impactful®. She believes that living, loving, and connecting deeply are the foundation for a good life. She holds a degree in education and is a mom to 3 kids.

36 Romantic Ways To Say I Love You For the First Time

When you finally find yourself in the perfect relationship, it’s time to say those magical three words: “I love you.” It may seem like one of the most daunting experiences for many people, but saying I love you can be incredibly romantic and special.

To help make this moment as memorable as possible, here are some of our best ways to creatively express your feelings to say I love you Romantically.

1- I love you more than words can describe.

2- Every beat of my heart belongs to you.

3- I love you with all of my soul.

4- You are the reason why I wake up in the morning.

5- When I look into your eyes, I can see forever.

6- You make my life so much brighter and better.

7- You are my one and only true love.

8- You are my sunshine on a cloudy day.

9- I can’t imagine life without you by my side.

10- I will always be here for you no matter what.

11- I love you more than the stars in the sky.

12- You make me feel like I can do anything.

13- I want to grow old with you and spend all of my days loving you.

14- You bring out the best in me.

15- Without you, my life would be incomplete.

16- Saying I love you will never be enough to express how I feel.

17- You have my heart and it will always be yours.

18- You are the one my heart desires.

19- Being in love with you is a beautiful thing.

20- My love for you is endless and eternal.

21- When I’m with you, I feel truly alive.

22- You are my rock and I will always lean on you.

23- Loving you is the best thing that has ever happened to me.

24- I will love you until the end of time.

25- Every moment spent with you is magic.

26- I’m thankful for you every day.

27- You are my one true love, and no other can compare.

28- Being in love with you is like a fairytale come true.

29- My heart will be yours forever and always.

30- You make me feel so safe and secure.

Romantic Activities To Say I Love You For the First Time

1- Write a heartfelt love letter expressing your feelings.

2- Frame a picture of the two of you with a thoughtful caption.

3- Make them breakfast in bed and drop little notes of love around their plate.

4- Look into their eyes and whisper it from your heart.

5- Create a personalised romantic playlist for them.

6- Buy a bouquet of their favourite flowers and tell them that you love them with each petal.

7- Buy two tickets for a romantic getaway to an exotic destination and surprise them with it.

8- Get matching tattoos to show your commitment to each other.

9- Make a scrapbook filled with pictures, ticket stubs and notes of all the special moments you’ve shared together.

10- Put a message in a bottle and drop it off at their doorstep.

11- Take them to a secret spot where you can watch the stars together.

12- Cook their favourite meal for them and make it extra special by lighting candles and playing their favourite music in the background.

13- Write a poem expressing your love for them.

14- Make a video montage of all the special moments you’ve shared together.

15- Give them an unexpected hug to show your love.

16- Spend the entire day with them doing all the things they love.

17- Make a time capsule of your relationship and bury it in your garden or some other special spot.

18- Dedicate a song to them on the radio or online.

19- Take a dance class together and then surprise them with a special performance at home.

20- Have a romantic picnic in your garden or at the park.

21- Organise a surprise candlelight dinner for them.

22- Make them their favourite dessert with “I love you” written on it.

101 Romantic Unique Ways to Say I LOVE YOU

Poetic Ways to say I Love You

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Any cute and creative ways to say “I love you” for the first time

Babe if you see this no you didn’t. I’m too lazy to make a throwaway account.

So, I’m (f29) in a fairly new relationship (nb28) (I don’t want to say specifics because I know some people will be assholes about it) and it has been going amazingly. I’m nearly 30 and I have never felt like this for anyone, much less someone who matches my energy and effort in the relationship and truly makes me feel cared for and appreciated. I’ve always been the type to fall quickly but this has felt entirely different because for once I can see clearly that they feel the same. My partner has been the one to initiate everything in our relationship so far and I very much want to be the one to say I love you first.

The thing is, I would prefer to say it in person, but we are currently long distance and with covid can’t really visit one another. I could wait but that would risk them saying it first. Next best I suppose would be during a video chat or phone call. I was wondering if anyone had any cute and creative ideas what feels like such a momentous occasion.

*one little note I want to throw in, just because I haven’t posted it anywhere so I don’t embarrass them but I need to get it out. They’ve told me a handful of times that they’re head over heels for me but they are bad at spelling and every single time they’ve spelled it “heals” and I can never bring myself to correct them because they’re so sweet and I think it’s adorable. 🥰

TL;DR Just looking for cute ideas in how to say I love you first in a relationship

100 Cute "Good Night" Texts to Send Someone Special

These messages are short, sweet and guaranteed to put a smile on their face.

To execute an effective "good night" text, you don’t have to be a poet or particularly good with words. Just hone in on your emotions and speak from the heart. You can do fun and flirty messages and use pet names , or go the sentimental route and share something more thoughtful and touching. Even if you decide to keep it lighthearted and funny, we don’t doubt that it will be appreciated.

Regardless of how you decide to express just how much they mean to you, this list will provide you with the perfect words to say “good night” in a sweet (and maybe a bit cheesy) way. And you don't have to stop there, you can also take a look at some of our cute good morning texts that will help them wake up with a smile.

Sweet and Short Good Night Texts

• Sleep well, my darling
• Good night! Be sure to get your full eight hours.
• Sleep well, my friend!
• Sending you a big hug. Good night my love.
• I’m already thinking about a good morning text I’ll send to you.
• My bed is missing you as badly as I am.
• I love you more every night. Good night.
• Good night, sleep tight.
• Tonight was lovely. You are lovely. Sleep well.
• I love you. Good night.
• Good night, my princess.
• Sweet dreams, my love!
• I hope that your rest is awesome and deep.
• Good night, babe.
• Good night, honey.
• Good night and have a good sleep.
• Good night, beautiful!
• Dream sweet dreams, my love.
• Missing you as I drift off to sleep.
• Good night, sweetheart.
• I’ll be dreaming of your face!
• Night night.
• Good night, I miss you!
• Until tomorrow.
• Sweet dreams, lovely.
• Sleep tight. I love you always.
• Good night, gorgeous.
• Have a peaceful night, babe.
• Good night, sleeping beauty.
• Good night, my angel.
• May all your dreams be of amazing things.
• Get some sleep, gorgeous!
• Dream sweetly. Sleep peacefully.
• Good night, you are loved.
• Hoping you’re having a good night, love. Sweet dreams.
• Sweet dreams, babe! I love you!
• Good night, love.

Romantic Good Night Texts

• You are the most special person in my life. I hope you sleep peacefully, darling!
• Wishing you the sweetest dreams as you drift off to sleep.
• Sending you kisses. Good night!
• Thank you for making me feel so special and lucky. Good night!
• I love you to the moon and back. Call me when you wake up.
• Sleep tight, my love. May your dreams be filled with happiness and our love that's forever.
• Imagine we’re together in your dreams. Good night my sweetheart!
• As you drift into sleep, remember that I’ll be here waiting to see your beautiful smile in the morning. Sleep tight. Wishing you a night as gentle as your heart and as peaceful as your soul. Sleep tight, my love.
• The best way to start my day is to tell you good morning. The best way to end my day is by wishing you good night.
• I wish I was there to hold you tight, instead of just sending you this loving “Good night.”
• I just couldn't sleep without saying I love you. Good night.
• Hope you will have the sweetest dream tonight.
• Good night, I thank God every night to have your love in my life.
• My night is complete, when I wish you a wonderful night.
• I’m already looking forward to your good morning text.
• If you promise to dream of me, I promise to dream of you.
• I have to fall asleep faster, so we can be together sooner!
• I cherish every moment that we are together, and can’t wait to see you again. Good night honey.
• I’ll be counting the minutes until we can be together again. I hope to see you in my dreams, my love.
• You are one in a million and an angel in human disguise. Good night!
• I miss you so much and I can’t wait to be back home. Good night. Sending warm hugs and kisses.
• I hope you sleep well and have dreams as beautiful as you are.
• I wish you the best tomorrow and a sweet night ahead.
• Good night, love of my life.
• Before I fall asleep, I just wanted to tell you one more time how much you mean to me. Thanks for making every day a good day.
• Wishing you a pleasant and restful sleep and lovely dreams.
• I love you, my captivating princess. Good night.
• Whenever I pray to God before I sleep, I ask for two favors. For you to have a lovely night, and for Him to watch over you as He guides you into the land of beautiful dreams.
• You are the only woman for me. That’s why I always think about you from the moment I wake up to the moment I fall asleep.
• I’m sending all my hugs and good night kisses to the woman who makes me feel like the luckiest man in the world.
• I love you more each day than the previous day, sweet dreams love.
• Good night, my love. I’m so lucky that you are mine.
• I hope you dream beautiful dreams tonight. You deserve happiness when you’re asleep and awake.
• Sleep tight and enjoy the lovely dreams coming your way.
• I hope today treated you well. May you sleep peacefully through the night.
• I hope you sleep well and have the best dreams. I love you so much. I can’t wait to see you in the morning.
• You’re probably asleep, but I want this to be the first thing that you see in the morning: I love you.

Flirty and Funny Good Night Texts

• Sending you kisses and hugs for a wonderful and peaceful sleep.
• Nights without you are the worst. I wish I was with you right now, holding you tight. Can’t wait to see you, darling. Good night.
• Good night handsome, hope you have amazing dreams tonight.
• I love that you never forget to text me good night.
• I wish I could fall asleep in your arms, snuggling next to your heart.
• I wish we didn’t have to sleep, so we could just keep talking!
• I am sending sleep angels to come watch over you while you sleep. I just hope they don’t get scared by your loud snores!
• I just wanted to say – sweet dreams, mi amor. I will be thinking of you the whole night.
• I want your face to be the last thing I see at night and the first thing I see in the morning.
• Sleep tight. Dream of me. And text me as soon as you wake up.
• Good night, beautiful girl. You deserve to have an absolutely amazing night.
• I miss you already… sweet dreams.
• Sweet dreams to my dream man!
• Tonight was the most fun I’ve had in forever. I’m going to be thinking about it until I see you again. Sleep tight.
• I could text you all night, but then we’d be too tired to text all day. Nighty-nite!
• Good night, my love. I cannot wait to see you in the morning.
• Good night. Sleep tight. Don’t let the bedbugs bite.
• You are the reason I fall asleep with a smile on my face.
• I could chat with you all night, but it's time for someone to sleep. Good night!
• You’re beautiful, smart and so kind. Thought I would let you know all of this before going to sleep.
• Good night to the most beautiful girl on earth.
• Hoping you have the best dreams about me tonight!
• Sleeping without you by my side is hard, but the time will come when we won’t have to be separated anymore. Until then, let's meet in our dreams.
• I never realized how hard it is to sleep without hearing your cute snores next to me. Good night, my love.

Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping , where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.

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• University of Denver
• Advancing DU

Storytelling, Shaving Cream and Slime: Why Students Love Professor Nancy Sasaki

Jordyn reiland.

[email protected]

The microbiology professor and DU alum brings science to life with her thought-provoking and engaging style of teaching.

It’s not uncommon to find students writing children’s books or interacting with shaving cream, Play-Doh and slime molds in Nancy Sasaki’s classroom.

Sasaki has been bringing science to life in the University of Denver’s Department of Biological Sciences since 2008. Her history with the department goes back even further, having earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biological sciences from DU in the late ’80s.

As a teaching professor, Sasaki teaches microbiology

classes to both majors and non-majors. While her teaching style differs somewhat depending on who’s in her class, Sasaki encourages every student to “wonder, have fun and be curious about the material.”

In addition to teaching, Sasaki served as associate dean in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics from 2011 until 2019 and has been involved in the Office of Teaching and Learning, the Women’s Leadership Council and the Equity in STEM (E-STEM) program. She is also a researcher, having studied both scientific topics and science teaching.

Her unique way of teaching and her supportive, engaging demeanor has made for an enjoyable classroom experience that students recall fondly. Here are just a few of the reasons why she has made a difference in so many students’ lives.

Her ties to DU run deep—and it shows.

Sasaki has never strayed far from DU, thanks to a series of fortuitous opportunities.

Growing up in small town Center, Colo., Sasaki was the first in her family to attend college. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in 1985, she returned to campus to pursue a master’s degree. It was then that she met Jim Fogleman, who taught genetics and biostatistics at DU—but retired this spring—and he offered her a graduate teaching assistant position. 

After finishing her master's, Sasaki began her teaching career in New Jersey at the high school level before she and her husband moved back to Denver, and she was offered a job in August 2008 at the institution where she first found her love for microbiology.

“I just believe that if you’re open to these opportunities that good things will come to you,” she says.

It's that deep connection to the university community that shines through in the passion she brings to her teaching, her students say.

“The ability to facilitate deep learning across learning styles and academic interests is essential for student success, so professors who are not only passionate about their field but also immersing their students in their classes are a true asset to the school,” says biology major Mimi Morrison, who has taken two classes with Sasaki.

She is an “enthusiastic, engaging and inspiring” professor.

Claire Sweeney, a student in the Daniels College of Business who took Sasaki’s three-quarter-long course Living in the Microbial World, believes professors like Sasaki “inspire students to reach their full potential.”

“Professor Sasaki is by far my favorite teacher at the university; her love and excitement for students is unmatched. This passion translates into a supportive and engaging learning environment where students feel comfortable and motivated,” she says.

Sasaki says she intentionally teaches without focusing on memorization and rather encourages students to work together to build solutions to the problems posed in the classroom.

“I want to hear how you phrase things, how you think about things,” she says.

Hanna Hernandez Lindner, who took Sasaki’s microbiology course, describes her teaching style as “inclusive, thought-provoking and collaborative.”

“She sparks discussions in the classroom so that students can share their knowledge into thoughtful concepts. These discussions have helped me think of the content more thoroughly as well as connecting with my classmates and listening to their thoughts to gain more insights,” she says.

She makes complex science topics fun and relatable.

By participating in a drawing activity using shaving cream and paint dye, Sweeney was able to better grasp what would have otherwise been a challenging topic in Sasaki’s class.

“This hands-on activity was not only fun but also allowed us to visualize and creatively express complex ecological concepts,” she says.

Morrison’s favorite moment in her class with Sasaki involved slime molds.

“It was so fun to, as a class, be ubiquitously blown away by this mysterious organism—a common experience in class with Dr. Sasaki, who consistently emphasizes the wonders of microbial life,” she says.

Sasaki intentionally creates collaborative, creative environments in her classes to get her students to think in different ways. For example, she has her non-major students at the end of the year write a science-related children’s book.

“I love reading them, and they have all of these different, unique stories,” Sasaki says. “They have to learn again how it really works and then how to communicate that to a kid.”