So, now that you’ve tied the knot and you’re ready to begin your new life together, it’s time to start thinking about all of the great things you can do as a couple—before babies. Kids are great and all, but they’re kind of a big responsibility. Cherish this exciting and romantic time in your newlywed life by creating a pre-baby bucket list! Think outside the box and do things you’ve never done because once that baby comes, you won't have the chance to do many of these things (until they're older and you can bring them along, of course). Below is a list of our ideas that might help get you started!

The Ultimate Pre-Baby Bucket List:

Photos by Studio Laguna Photography

1. Go on your honeymoon & travel as much as possible.

One great thing about getting married is having an unconditional travel partner; how special is it to travel the world with the person you’ve decided to spend the rest of your life with? Whether it’s a week-long retreat to the lake, a road trip across the country, or a few weeks in the tropics, getting away together is a wonderful way to start your life together. And why stop there? Make travel an essential part of your relationship long after the honeymoon is over—going to new places with one another keeps things fresh and exciting. Explore your relationship by exploring the world! I’m not saying you can’t travel after kids—common misconception. I'm just saying it'll be easier to get up and go now, rather than when you have a 2-year-old on your hip. Everyone has his and her own tastes and travel style, but to get your travel wheels spinning, here are the top 10 honeymoon destinations according to US News & World Report: 1. Tuscany, Italy 2. Tahiti, French Polynesia 3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia 4. St. Lucia 5. Fiji 6. Napa Valley, Napa County, United States 7. Maldives 8. Paris 9. Florence, Italy 10. Almafi Coast, Italy.

Extra Tip: Fly First Class at least once together…you won’t regret it.

2. Do something adventurous.

While you’re away on your awesome vacation in a new and foreign land, why not try an activity that you’ve never done before? Go zip-lining through the rainforest, backpack through Europe, glacier hike in Iceland, bungee jump in New Zealand, skydive over the crystal clear lakes and breathtaking mountains of Montana—there are plenty of adventures to be had. If adrenaline isn’t your thing, try tasting new cuisines, finding a winery, surfing, or going horseback riding. How about a relaxing hot air balloon ride? Even if you aren’t traveling, you can always make your own adventures; they can take place across the world as easily as in your own backyard. Your adventures are what you make them!

3. Take a class together.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to make the perfect sushi roll, or how to ballroom dance? Cities across the country offer couples classes for those who want to refine their cultural and worldly skills. Taking classes with your hubby not only allows you two to spend some quality time together but also Here are a few of my favorite ideas: -Mixology -Dance -Language -Kama Sutra -Cooking -Art (painting, pottery, etc.) -Acting -Massage -Physical (rock climbing, surfing, yoga, etc.) -Home Improvement

4. Go to a professional sports game.

Surly one or both of you likes to engage in one of America’s greatest past times, but even if that isn’t the case, it could be fun to get outside of your comfort zone and try a different form of entertainment other than the ones you’re used to. If nothing else, a stadium full of thousands of people will not disappoint you two as a great place to go people-watching. Either go just the two of you for a romantic night out, or invite some friends and make it a group gathering! Baseball can be fun on a beautiful summer day—especially if the park is outdoors. Hockey, football, and basketball can also turn a boring fall or winter day into a more exciting one. And, if your state is one of the fortunate few to have lesser-watched sports like professional women’s basketball (Go, Lynx!), lacrosse, or soccer, those can make for a different and fun afternoon or evening with your sweetie. …Also, did somebody say “beer”?

5. Go to a concert or music festival.

Everyone likes music, and maybe one of the reasons you and your hubby got together was for the love of a certain artist or band. Check out tour schedules and try to make it to a concert together, or if you’re both just music lovers in general, look for touring bands in your area. If no one’s around: road trip! Road trips are awesome bonding experiences and you’ll probably cover a lot of new ground together in the process. Here are a list of some of the top venues and festivals across the country for you and your love to ponder: -Lollapalooza, Chicago -Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver -Troubadour, Los Angeles -The Bluebird Café, Nashville -SXSW, Austin -Coachella, California -Bonaroo, Tennessee -Sasquatch, Washington -Jazz & Heritage Festival, New Orleans

6. Volunteer.

Married or not, volunteering is something we should all think about doing; however, if you and your guy both enjoy helping others in the same way, more power to you. There are so many opportunities to help those who are less fortunate, and sharing your love and compassion for those around you with the one you share your life with can be extra fulfilling. Walk dogs for the Humane Society, get involved in a city cleanup, or serve food at a homeless shelter—you can look for opportunities like these and more by using volunteermatch.org.

7. Play hooky and stay in bed together, all day.

If you love to cuddle, this one’s for you. After all of the wedding stress, wouldn’t it be lovely to unwind with some cozy personal time together? It’s not recommended to do this all the time because it wouldn’t be quite as special, but we all need a break. Watch your favorite movies, read a book, gaze into each other’s eyes—pick your poison, disconnect from the outside world for a while and enjoy your day off together, just the two of you. After all, cuddling is scientifically proven to deepen relationships and reduce stress!  

8. Have a spa day.

Do both you and your man need to de-stress? Consider making an appointment for a couples’ massage. You can opt for the same type of massage, or vary the type to your liking. Many couples find this to be a nice way to introduce their partner to massages, making him or her feel more comfortable in the other’s presence. Spa’s also offer other couples’ activities like saunas, steam showers, or scalp and foot massages. If you aren’t looking to spend the money for a professional massage, oil each other up and have a nice relaxing spa day from the comfort of your own home.

9. Write each other letters.

Unfortunately, technology has taken over in the present day, which mostly leaves us with fleeting text messages, Facebook posts, and quick Snapchats. Give each other something that will last forever by writing your spouse a love letter after you take your vows. Save them, then open them up again on your 10^th, 20^th, 50^th (insert other number here) anniversary and reflect on how you felt then, and how your love has evolved. Combine other items that symbolize your relationship with the letters, and make your own love time capsule. Need an easy gesture? Write “I love you” on a Post-it and stick it to their coffee mug, alarm clock, or even the bathroom mirror. It’s the little things, friends. And trust me, your loved one will appreciate it, no matter how little it is.

10. Enjoy your friends.

If your friends are enjoying their pre-baby bucket lists as well, join in! Soak up this fantastic time in your lives, before 30^th birthdays and bachelor parties turn into baby showers and 1^st birthdays. Enjoy all-nighters, throw a few house parties, and have a great time with your chosen family. Don't turn into that couple that only has time for spending time with each other. Make sure to do your best to make time for friends and family in your lives! 

11. Take a career risk.

Now is a good time to follow those dreams of yours. If you’re unhappy at work or have your eyes set on a new career, go for it! You just married your biggest fan—let them cheer you on and help you achieve your goals. If no one else has told you yet, I’ll start: Go do whatever it is you want to do! You won’t regret it.

12. Find your home sweet home.

This could mean relocating to your favorite city, renovating your first home, or simply decluttering. You could even turn that future baby room into an art studio or game room for a while. If you're not up for moving quite yet, try redecorating! Starting some home improvements can be a great way to bond with your loved one.

13. Build an emergency fund.

This is way less fun to talk about, but everyone should have a 6-month or 1-year emergency fund saved up before those kiddos come. Okay, I’m done. Back to the fun stuff.

14. Practice.

Borrow you nieces and nephews, and babysit! Learn how the two of you relate to children, what your strengths and weaknesses are, etc…You should also discuss your parenting goals. What do you see for your children’s futures? How will you discipline and reward them? Who will take the night shift when they won’t stop crying? These are great discussions to have before the bump.

15. Have some babies.

What’s on your pre-baby bucket list? Share your ideas in the comments below!

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