With the UK weather being largely unpredictable (as always), we haven’t had as many summer BBQ’s and lazy nights in the park by this time of year as I’d hoped. David and I had one evening several weeks ago where it was hot enough to put together a barbecue, open a bottle of prosecco and chat the night away – which of course, was lovely – but our wonderful weather makes these such occasions few and far between. Let’s hope it improves!
Anyway, keen not to miss out on the all important date night, despite the weather – we headed to The Galleria, in Hertfordshire, a large outlet centre which happens to be one of my locals. With a variety of restaurants, an Odeon cinema and a vast array of outlet stores, all under one roof – it makes things so much easier when you don’t have to rely on the weather!
And plus, shopping, food and films sounds like the perfect date?
After picking up a gift card from the customer service desk, which The Galleria themselves had kindly organised for us – so that we could treat one another, we headed straight onto the lower floor for the French Connection outlet, which I had my eyes on from the beginning. With a trip to Thailand in just a few short days, I knew I wanted something floaty to wear on the beach – and I was pretty sure I was in the right shop to find something suitable.
[ezcol_1third]
[/ezcol_1third] [ezcol_1third]
[/ezcol_1third] [ezcol_1third_end]
[/ezcol_1third_end]
Sure enough, within seconds I spotted a pastel tie die maxi dress, which ties round the waist to avoid that swamped out look that some longer garments can ungraciously provide. Although I spent a good ten minutes wandering round the store to double check there was nothing else that took my fancy, I slowly gravitated back towards the dress and it soon slipped off the rail and onto the checkout desk. Savvy shopper and all that. Sometimes, when you know, you know.
I did take a couple of photographs of me trying on the dress but honestly, I think it deserves a better backdrop than a white changing room wall and harsh lighting, so I’ll be showing you how I’ve styled this in a post very soon – after I’ve worn it in Thailand! I’m thinking minimal jewellery and flats – while walking on the famous beach on Phi Phi island. We shall see.
In the meantime, rather than splash out on another dress – I thought it was only fair on date night to let David have the remaining gift card allowance for a little purchase of his own. So naturally, we walked over to the Nike store.
[ezcol_1third]
[/ezcol_1third] [ezcol_1third]
[/ezcol_1third] [ezcol_1third_end]
[/ezcol_1third_end]
In case you haven’t been before, the Nike outlet offers pretty much exactly the same as the main Nike stores but at a fraction of the price. Often they can be last season’s trainers and gym wear – but every time I’ve been before, they’ve had amazing stuff that you’ll want to wear this season – so don’t feel as though you’re missing out. I personally enjoy shopping much more knowing I’ve got something I genuinely love (regardless of its season) for a little (or a lot) less.
After trying on an assortment of trainers that all pretty much looked the same, he eventually opted for a very snazzy pair of black ones. I won’t try and describe them because I’ll probably embarrass myself with my lack of trainer knowledge (sorry!) but they look good and he’s also planning to wear them in Thailand because apparently “we’re going to be doing a lot of walking!” – which is news to me.
Pleased with our new purchases, we strolled over to the Odeon for the 5pm showing of the new X-Men film, which was actually brilliant. I’m not usually a huge fan of sci-fi, action type films but I’ll always make an exception for X-Men, largely because it stars Jennifer Lawrence and SHE HAS THE BEST HAIR IN THIS FILM! If you’re planning a trip to your local cinema, I’d definitely recommend giving it a watch as we both thoroughly enjoyed ourselves – the perfect movie for a date!
We then moved on to dinner, which I suppose is the natural profession of a typical date night (well mine anyway, because every outing involves food) – and our choice, was Italian favourite – Prezzo. A relatively new addition to The Galleria (since my last visit), the interior is very chic, comfortable and classic – a favoured choice for birthday parties and dinner dates alike. We took a seat at one of the window booths and perused the menu, spoiled for choice.
[ezcol_1third]
[/ezcol_1third] [ezcol_1third]
[/ezcol_1third] [ezcol_1third_end]
[/ezcol_1third_end]
Eventually, I settled on the chargrilled chicken calabrese and David chose the Italian mini burgers and a steak and rocket flatbread pizza. Our table could barely fit the lot (especially with the addition of two portions of perfectly crisp fries) but it soon disappeared – clearly famished after our speedy shopping trip!
Overall, we had such a wonderful, casual date night at The Galleria – and we’re already planning to go back when we have a little more time to shop. It’s a great place if you’re looking for a bargain, or even if you just like window shopping. They have GAP outlets, as well as your Costa’s, Starbuck’s, TK MAXX and Waterstones. There’s something for everyone – and it’s great to go whatever the weather, since the vast skylights make it feel bright and sunny even on a miserable rainy day!
Have you been to The Galleria before? Or do you enjoy outlet shopping? What would be your perfect date night?
**
