tips for:

my boyfriend and i have been doing a hilariously abundant amount of couples' activities.  this is an homage to the fine art known as the "double date"...

1) choose wisely.  your prospective couple should complement the couple you are part of.
2) choose activity to reflect each couple's tastes... even if it is just dinner, the restaurant/activity can dictate a lot of how the night will turn out
3) keep it informal and spontaneous... do NOT over-use the term "double date" (contrary to this blog post, i actually loathe the term and this is my attempt to find humor in it)
4) as the female, make it a point to have solo conversation with other female, especially if you two are not the initial friends of the scenario.  female mood drives the WHOLE energy of everything.  don't you know that by now???
5) segway into other fun activities you guys could/should/would do together (as four-some or more)
6) do a group brainstorm of what other couples should (and should NOT) be included in said activities.  this can be very fun and almost feel like match-making for couples.  (dan and josh should be bff and not to mention mira and kait are like two peas in a pod) (yes, those are real people and andrew and i have actually discussed this)
7) obviously discuss: how you met, how they met, what chores around the house the dudes are expected to do (all around it's ALWAYS take the trash out)
8) do not discuss: anyone's ex's.  DUH.
9) when paying the bill, mix it up: one couple should pay and let the other pick up next time.  or the ladies should pick up the tab. 
10) follow through!  make plans with each other as a couple and solo.  do go on that hike, do plan that camping trip, yes, lets flea market together.  follow through on couple stuff, follow through on solo stuff.

other tips:
usually start with dinner
take turns hosting
game night is always big
physical activity is more like date#3 or #4 (hike, bike ride, etc)
out of town trip means we are commited to each other in commited relationships and that we love you