There are lots of definitions for romance, but those that refer to feelings of excitement associated with love are the best. This excitement can be very playful or intense. If you are a natural romantic, you have it within you to keep your relationship going strong for a long time to come. If you aren't, it can become second nature with some practice.

1.) Centuries ago, love letters and love poetry were very much an artistic production. They're unfashionable today, but things old fashioned and romance seem to go together. Get a book of love poetry, pick one poem and alter it so that she will believe that it was penned by you.

Place it in a box of expensive chocolates and have it gift wrapped.

2.) Go and do something completely unexpected. Women like to be surprised. The thing about surprises is that you are going to do something that you normally wouldn't do.

It could entail getting out of your comfort zone a bit. So if you're the homebody type then try spending the evening (or weekend) on a well thought out romantic outing. Advance planning is very important because without one, you will just fall back on the same old routines.

Doing the same old stuff isn't what a surprise is about. There's nothing more unromantic than saying: "So, now what?"

If you are the pragmatic, unromantic type, this will seem especially hard to do. But, you've got a major advantage over the experienced romantics: anything romantic coming from you will be huge to her because it's the last thing that she's expecting from you. You have surprise working for you.

3.) If her work week was very stressful, then get up early on Saturday morning and cook breakfast for her. Carry it to her bedside on a fancy tray for some breakfast in bed. Depending on her level of exhaustion, you may want to allow her some quiet time reading her favorite book or magazine.

4.) An open fireplace has great potential for a romantic evening particularly in the wintertime. Things like a crackling fire along with champagne, some wine, a comfy love seat, and dimmed lights all create the perfect atmosphere for romance. This is especially effective if you're at a getaway such as a skiing lodge, rustic cabin, or an elegant hotel.

5.) When it comes to the romantic gesture, you don't always have to hit a home run. Grand and noble gestures are effective but can be hard to keep up every day. This is where lots of small gestures come into play.

Women value both the small gestures and the big ones about the same. So keep up with the compliments, kisses, hugs, touching and acts of appreciation.