Free Alternative to Expensive Card Decks & More
Compare conversation starter cards, books, apps, and discover why digital alternatives are better and free.
📚 Recommended Reading
Expert-recommended books to guide your relationship journey
Eight Dates
by John Gottman
Discover the key discussions couples should have to improve your relationship.
Passionate Marriage
by David Schnarch
A groundbreaking guide to deep intimacy through self-growth and sexual connection.
The 80/80 Marriage
by Nate and Kaley Klemp
An accessible, transformative guide for couples seeking greater love, connection, and intimacy in our modern world.
Hold Me Tight
by Sue Johnson
Seven conversations for a lifetime of love using Emotionally Focused Therapy principles.
📚 Recommended Reading
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Recommended Reading
Eight Dates
John & Julie Gottman
Based on Gottman's research, this book outlines eight strategic dates couples should have, complete with conversation guides to deepen intimacy and connection.
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Recommended Reading
Hold Me Tight
Sue Johnson
Dr. Sue Johnson's breakthrough guide using Emotionally Focused Therapy principles to help couples create secure, lasting bonds and repair relationship wounds.
View on Amazon →
Recommended Reading
The 5 Love Languages
Gary Chapman
Discover the five ways people experience and express love. This bestselling book helps couples understand how their partner prefers to receive affection and appreciation.
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Recommended Reading
The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition
Exploration Nation
A scratch-off adventure book with 50+ daring date ideas and mini-challenges that encourage couples to explore together and create shared memories.
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Recommended Reading
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
John Gottman
Based on decades of research with thousands of couples, Gottman reveals the seven principles that predict whether a marriage will succeed or fail. A foundational guide for building lasting relationships.
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Recommended Reading
Where Should We Begin? Card Game
Esther Perel
A beautifully designed card game from renowned relationship therapist Esther Perel featuring intimate conversation prompts to deepen emotional and physical connection.
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Recommended Reading
Attached
Amir Levine & Rachel Heller
Using attachment theory, this book explains relationship patterns and how understanding your attachment style can lead to healthier, more secure relationships.
View on Amazon →
📱 Helpful Apps & Tools
Digital tools to support your relationship growth
Paired App
An app that helps bring couples closer together through daily questions and relationship insights.
Features:
- ✓Daily Questions
- ✓Relationship Insights
- ✓Progress Tracking
Lasting App
Marriage counseling and therapy sessions on your phone with professional guidance.
Features:
- ✓Professional Therapy
- ✓Personalized Sessions
- ✓Progress Tracking
Gottman Card Decks
Digital card decks with conversation starters based on research by Dr. John Gottman.
Features:
- ✓Research-Based
- ✓Multiple Categories
- ✓Easy to Use
💡 Creative Date Ideas
Fun activities to strengthen your bond and create memories
At-Home Adventures
- •Cook a meal from a different culture together
- •Have a themed movie marathon with snacks
- •Create art together - painting, crafts, or music
- •Build a blanket fort and share childhood stories
- •Try a new hobby or learn something together
Outdoor Exploration
- •Go hiking and have a picnic at the summit
- •Visit a farmers market and cook with your finds
- •Take a photography walk around your neighborhood
- •Go stargazing and share your dreams
- •Try geocaching or a nature scavenger hunt
Interactive Fun
- •Try an escape room or puzzle game
- •Take a dance or cooking class together
- •Play mini golf or go bowling
- •Visit a museum and discuss the exhibits
- •Attend a local event or festival
🤝 Professional Support
Sometimes we all need a little extra help
In-Person Therapy
Find qualified couples therapists in your local area
Search by location, insurance, and specialty
Ready to Start Growing Together?
Use these resources alongside our conversation starters for the best results
Start Your ConversationsDisclaimer: Some links on this page may be affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our mission to provide helpful resources for couples. All recommendations are based on quality and relevance.