1. Watch a romantic Christmas movie
One of the most fun things to do when it's cold and miserable outside it to cuddle up with the person you are dating, a bowl of popcorn or perhaps a bottle of wine and settle down to watch a classic Christmas movie together. You can either go traditional with something like 'It's a Wonderful Life', 'A Christmas Carol' or 'Miracle on 34th Street', or perhaps opt for something modern but with just as much of a Christmassy feel, say, 'Bridget Jones's Diary', 'Love Actually' or the very funny 'Elf'. But choose carefully - if things go well it could end up being 'our movie'.
2. Bake Christmas cookies
Cooking might not immediately strike you as the most romantic activity in the world, but just picture the scene - the warmth of the stove, the sweet aromas of cinnamon and ginger, it all gets a little bit messy, your dating partner leans over attentively to wipe a little icing off your cheek - the possibilities from here are endless. And, if nothing happens between the two of you, at least you end up with something to show for it - a delicious plate of Christmas cookies! Or, if it goes the other way, just don't get too carried away and forget those cookies are still in the oven...
3. Wrap gifts together
Wrapping gifts is a fun way to get to know a little bit more about your dating partner and the practical activity takes away some of the pressure of a regular question/answer discussion, which can seem more like an interview. You'll find out loads of fascinating things about your date's nearest and dearest - what people buy others as gifts can be very revealing - and you will find each gift can be a real conversation starter. For example: 'I got this old map for my sister, because she loves travelling', etc etc. And, once again, if the date doesn't go to plan, at least you'll end up with the job of wrapping all your Christmas presents done and dusted.
4. Decorate the tree together
Decorating the tree is another fun way to prepare for Christmas together, and a natural conversation starter where you are likely find out a lot about your dating partner's past Christmases as the memories come flooding back with all the old baubles and tinsel. Of course, for a job such as this, classic Christmas tunes tinkling in the background are called for, along with a delicious Christmassy drink like port or sherry and some yummy Christmas nibbles to keep you going. Then just sit back with your drinks and enjoy the beautiful thing you've created as a couple.