Whether it’s daily or once, there are thousands of corny things couples do for love. Don’t be a wet blanket and be sure to have fun with it.
Oh, we’ve all been there, haven’t we? One minute you’re rolling your eyes at those corny things couples do, like over-the-top romantic gestures, and the next, you’re deep in love, doing all those things you swore you’d never do.
Love really has a way of flipping the script on us. It turns even the most skeptical among us into believers of grand romantic gestures and those little acts of love that we once labeled as ‘too much’. From calling each other cheesy nicknames to planning those cutesy date nights, love nudges us into a world where being corny isn’t just okay, it’s kind of the norm. [Read: 45 special & sweet date ideas every couple should have on their checklist]
The Psychology Behind Love’s Quirky Behaviors
Let’s dive into the psychology behind those corny and cringe-worthy things couples do. Have you ever wondered why, when in love, people start behaving in ways they might have rolled their eyes at before? Well, it’s not because there’s an unwritten rule in the relationship playbook, it’s all about the complex dance of our brains and emotions.
When we fall in love, our brain chemistry goes on a bit of a joyride. It’s like a cocktail party where dopamine and oxytocin are the guests of honor.
Dopamine, often dubbed the ‘feel-good neurotransmitter’, plays a huge role in our feelings of pleasure and reward. This little chemical is partly why those corny things couples do feel so exhilarating. Then there’s oxytocin, known as the ‘love hormone’, which deepens feelings of attachment and makes those shared cringe moments feel uniquely special.
But it’s not just chemistry, psychology has its say too. Think about theories like Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love, which talks about intimacy, passion, and commitment as the corners of a love triangle.
These corny things couples do often reflect high levels of intimacy, sometimes even bordering on what Harlow’s attachment research identified as a fundamental need for connection and bonding. [Read: Attachment styles theory: 4 types and signs & ways you attach to others]
And speaking of bonding, all those quirky, endearing actions play a huge role in it. When couples create inside jokes, indulge in baby talk, or even coordinate their outfits, they’re building a unique, intimate world of their own. It’s like they’re setting up their private island in the sea of relationships.
These behaviors might seem corny or cringe to the outside world, but for the couple, they are building blocks of a shared, comfortable, and secure space.
Cringe and Corny Things Couples Do
Whether you’re 16 and newly in love or 60 and have been with the same person for decades, you have probably done your fair share of corny things couples do for love.
There’s just something about being with that special someone that brings out the worst in people. When we say worst, we mean corny as hell. From diabetes-inducing Facebook posts to mapping our love, we’ve done it all. [Read: Truly corny signs you’re made for each other]
There are plenty of corny things that every couple in love does at least once but if you’re stuck, here are cheesy ideas to start with.
1. Wear Matching T-shirts
Nothing screams corny more than matching couples’ t-shirts. No matter your style, there are a myriad of matching lovey dovey accessories to choose from.
Of course, the digitally savvy kids are now opting for more creative options such as matching home screens and phone cases.
2. Go Public With It
In today’s day and age, posting sugary messages of love on your partner’s Facebook wall is the epitome of romantic corny.
From sharing sickly sweet I-love-you posts to incessant wefie updates from yesterday’s date night, it’s high time you jumped on the social media bandwagon if you haven’t already done it. [Read: The happy couple’s guide to social media etiquette]
3. Use Cheesy Nicknames
From the conventional “honey” to the not-so-conventional “sweet lard,” every couple in love has a corny nickname for one another. Admit it, no matter how much you used to scorn at “sweet baby cake” or “pumpkin,” there’s something about your partner uttering that perfectly silly nickname that just makes you melt.
It’s one of those things you might have giggled at before, but when it’s your significant other looking into your eyes and calling you their “snuggle muffin,” the rest of the world fades away and it suddenly seems like the most endearing thing ever. Cheesy? Absolutely. But it’s your own special kind of cheesy, and that’s what makes it so perfect.
4. Quote a Chick Flick
From Jerry Maguire’s “You had me at hello,” to Gone With The Wind’s “Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn,” there are a myriad of chick-friendly movies out there worth quoting to your lover to get your point across. Bonus points if you quote a line from a movie you watched together. [Read: 30 famous movie lines you can use to woo your sweetheart]
5. Feed Each Other
Ever been to a restaurant and felt nauseated just watching the couple at the next table spoon-feeding each other Tiramisu? Well, the next time you’re madly in love, give it a go. It may be horrible for others to watch but stuffing your partner’s face is nothing more than a sweet gesture of love.
6. Start a Love Map
If you and your partner love traveling, sometimes together, sometimes solo, and sometimes with others. However, you make it a point to update what you call your “love map.” All you need to do is take a regular map, frame it, and mark the places that you have visited together.
This way, every trip becomes a part of your shared journey, a visual representation of your adventures and the memories you’ve created side by side.
It’s a unique and interactive way to document your travels and watch your shared world expand with each new destination. [Read: Reasons why you should travel at least once every year]
7. Exchange Sweet Nothings
From love notes to love emails to love whispers, nothing is cornier than being über dramatic when telling your partner that you love them. It’s all about getting mushy and laying it on thick – the kind of sweetness that could give you a toothache just thinking about it.
Whether it’s a text message loaded with heart emojis or a whisper right out of a romantic novel, these exchanges are dripping with affection. And let’s be honest, deep down, most of us love every syrupy word of it. There’s something about those overly sweet, dramatic declarations that just hit different when it comes from someone you adore.
8. Brag About Them
We don’t mean bragging about your sweetheart when they’re not around. We mean proclaiming loud and proud how awesome they are in front of them and everyone else.
An example is when you’re both out with friends and you tell everyone how great your partner is. You’ll be sure to get plenty of “how sweet!” and “awwwwwww” comments. [Read: How to be a happy couple that’s envied by everyone else]
9. Getting in Costume
As overdone as this is, dressing up with your partner is a surefire way to rake up the corny points. Ideas include donning a French maid outfit and greeting your master after work, to dressing up in couples’ Halloween costumes.
10. Sing Along to Terrible Love Songs
Singing together out loud to terrible love songs shouldn’t be restricted to just one time. It should be done loud and proud every day.
Well, that’s our philosophy at least. From Michael Bolton’s ‘When a Man Loves a Woman’ to every Disney song ever composed, life is nothing if not filled with cheesy love tunes.
11. Compile a Playlist
Back then it was mix tapes but today, it’s all about the playlists. You can also go the extra mile and create a playlist to celebrate every milestone in your relationship. From your first road trip to your 10th anniversary, compile appropriate jams to match every event. [Read: The best songs to add to your lovemaking playlist]
12. Dance Even When There’s No Music
You don’t need blasting music to get your groove on. All you need is your lover, the right mood and you’re all set to dance the night away. From twirling to waltzing to slow dancing, give it your all.
13. Head to a Lookout Point
Head out to your favorite lookout point with your lover and watch the city lights blaze bright below overhanging stars.
Reminisce on when you first met and indulge in a hot and steamy make-out session. This may be one of the corny things couples do but it sure is romantic. [Read: Cute couple-things every couple needs to do]
14. Making Sentimental Presents
Forget the diamonds and overpriced surfboards. The next time you’re trying to figure out what to get your lover, make the gift instead of buying it.
An idea is filling a mason jar with ticket stubs from your favorite movies, museums, flights, concerts and events that you attended together. It’s almost like sealing your memories in a little time capsule that you can open any time. Cheesy, corny yet oh-so-sweet.
15. Post-it Love
The next time your lover leaves your side, whether it’s for a business trip or for a pottery class, hide little post-it love messages.
Some ideas include sticking it in their glove compartment, in their suitcase, in their jacket pocket and anywhere else clever. Whether they find it right away or two years from now, they’ll appreciate the sweet gesture.
16. Creating Their Own Language or Code
Some couples develop a secret language or code that only they understand. It could be anything from made-up words to special hand signals.
To outsiders, it might look a bit silly or corny, but for the couple, it’s a unique way to deepen their connection. And that’s okay because not everyone has to understand what the two of you share.
This special language or set of signals is like a private conversation in a crowded room, a way to say “I love you” or “You’re on my mind” without anyone else being the wiser.
17. Twinning Their Drinks
Going beyond just matching outfits, some couples love ordering the same drinks wherever they go. Be it coffee, cocktails, or smoothies, this little act symbolizes their shared tastes and preferences. It’s kind of endearing when you see both of them sipping the same strawberry smoothie or toasting with the same craft beer. [Read: The 35 best manly drinks, what makes them masculine & must-know secrets]
18. Recreating Their First Date
Isn’t it corny cute how some couples celebrate anniversaries not just as a celebration but as a recreation? You know, reliving that moment when everything started – the butterflies, the awkward silences, the shared laughter.
They might return to the same restaurant, don similar outfits, or even attempt to replay their first conversations; recapturing the magic of when they first realized this could be the real deal.
Sure, it might seem a bit too sentimental or even cringe-worthy, but for the couple involved, it’s a treasured ritual, a way to remember and rekindle the spark that set their love story in motion.
19. Taking Couple Quizzes
We love diving into those relationship quizzes found in magazines or online. Comparing answers and laughing about how spot-on or ridiculously off they are can be a blast.
This slightly corny activity often leads to deeper conversations and discoveries about each other. What a relaxed way to hang out and learn more about our quirks and preferences! [Read: 250 fun, deep relationship questions for couples to feel closer & more loved]
20. Marathon Watching Romantic Series or Movies
Revisiting shows like “Friends” for the hundredth time or binging the latest romantic drama series is our kind of comfort.
Seeing a bit of ourselves in the characters or simply soaking in the warm, fuzzy feelings these shows bring is special. Shared moments like these bring us closer, even when friends might poke fun at our ‘predictable’ TV tastes.
21. Writing Love Letters in the Digital Age
In this world of texts and emails, choosing to express our love through handwritten letters feels romantic and a touch corny. This old-fashioned gesture, filled with effort and thought, stands out. The rarity and personal touch of a handwritten note turn it into a treasure in our digital lives. [Read: 20 romantic secrets & examples to write a love letter & melt their heart]
22. Over-The-Top Celebrating for Small Achievements
Celebrating even the tiniest successes, whether it’s a small work victory or mastering a new dish, is part of our charm.
We might even throw a mini-party, complete with balloons and cake, for what others might see as everyday wins. This is our way of showing support and pride in each other’s journey, no matter the scale.
23. Collecting and Displaying Relationship Memorabilia
We adore saving bits and pieces of our journey together, like movie tickets or photos, creating a tangible scrapbook of our story. This collection becomes a walk down memory lane, letting us relive and cherish each step we’ve taken side by side.
Is it a bit cringe? Yes, perhaps to some, but should you stop? Definitely not. Embracing these keepsakes is a beautiful way to honor the moments that have shaped our relationship. It’s a physical testament to the shared laughter, adventures, and even the small, seemingly insignificant moments that mean so much.
The Cringe-Worthy Side of Coupledom
Let’s also talk about those cringe-worthy behaviors that couples sometimes dive into. While the corny stuff can be sweet, there are certain things that just make you raise an eyebrow and think, “Okay, that’s a bit much.” Here we go:
You know those couples who flood your feed with constant updates about their relationship? It’s like they’re trying to convince not just their friends but maybe even themselves that everything is perfect.
Over-sharing often comes from a place of seeking validation and wanting to share their happiness with the world. But it can also make others feel like they’re watching a reality show rather than genuine, heartfelt moments. [Read: Social media & relationships: 47 rules, etiquette & where couples go wrong]
25. Excessive Baby Talk
When couples start talking to each other in high-pitched, childlike voices, it’s not just corny, it’s cringe-inducing. This might seem cute to them but can be awkward for those around them.
It’s like they regress to a childlike state, finding comfort in this shared vulnerability, but it often leaves others feeling like they’ve walked into a kindergarten rather than an adult setting.
26. Making Life Decisions Based on Horoscopes
We’ve all met that couple who’s like, “Yeah, we rarely argue because he’s a Virgo and I’m a Pisces, it’s all in the stars.” They’re the ones who won’t make any big decision without checking their horoscopes first.
To them, it’s about being aligned with the universe, while to others, it might seem as random as letting dice rolls decide your fate. Come on, it’s not like everything is written in the stars, right? [Read: Red thread of fate: Secrets to find your destiny string & strengthen the bond]
Some couples merge their online identities, thinking it’s a cute way to show they’re united. But it can come off as losing their individual selves in the relationship.
It’s like saying, “We’re not two people anymore; we’re one entity,” which can feel a bit cringe and over-the-top. These shared accounts often leave friends wondering who’s actually posting or commenting.
28. Wearing Excessively Matching Outfits
It’s one thing to coordinate colors for a photo, but some couples take matching outfits to a whole new level. We’re talking full-on identical wardrobes, from head to toe.
As if they’re trying to become the human version of those matching salt and pepper shakers. While it shows they’re in sync, to the outside world, it’s a fashion statement that screams “cringe.”
29. Having One Another as Their Only Hobby
It’s great to love spending time with your partner, but some couples take it to the extreme. They drop all other hobbies and interests and focus solely on each other.
This can come off as a bit obsessive and can be unhealthy in the long run. It’s like they’re living in a couple’s bubble, disconnected from the rest of the world and their own individuality. [Read: How much time should couples spend together: 24 clues to your number]
30. Excessive PDA
While a little hand-holding or a quick peck is fine, some couples don’t know where to draw the line. We’re talking full-on make-out sessions in the middle of crowded places. It’s like they’re living in their romantic movie, oblivious to the discomfort they might be causing around them.
31. Coordinating their Schedules to the Extreme
Some couples insist on doing everything together, to the point where they won’t even go to social events unless the other is available Iike their calendars are chained together. While it’s great to be each other’s favorite person, this level of dependency can seem a bit much to onlookers.
Love Makes Us Do Stupid Things
Love makes everyone do stupid things. Some people take corny to the next level whereas others need a little nudge to get that romantic cog in their body turning.
[Read: How to be more romantic: 46 cute ways to melt your partner’s heart]
Either way, it doesn’t hurt to express how you feel! Love has its unique way of making us step out of our comfort zones and into a world filled with quirky expressions of affection. So, how many of these corny things couples do do you find yourself doing every now and then?
