Summer weekends are everything to me. After a busy week of creating, planning, and being a one-woman show over here, I look forward to pressing pause and soaking in all the simple joys I can. And the best part? I’ve learned how to make those weekends feel dreamy—without spending a fortune. If you’re like me and live for cozy mornings, beachy moments, and a little Nancy Meyers-style charm woven into your routine, this one’s for you. How I romanticize my summer weekends (without spending a fortune) really comes down to one thing: being intentional. That’s the secret.
And in case you’re wondering—romanticizing just means finding beauty in the everyday. Turning the ordinary into something special. It’s about slowing down, adding a little magic where you can, and treating your own life like it’s something to celebrate. (Because it is.)
Here’s how I do that every weekend in a way that feels both fun and totally doable:
How I Romanticize My Summer Weekends (Without Spending a Fortune)
1. I let the morning be slow
No alarms, no rushing. I make a big cup of coffee in my favorite mug (right now I’m loving my Italian sweet cream creamer) and step outside with a good book or just sit and listen to the birds. I’ll may even light a fresh candle too—something citrusy or beachy—to set the vibe.
2. I make a pretty breakfast (even if it’s just for me)
It could be fruit and yogurt, toast with jam, or Krusteaz buttermilk pancakes from a box. But I always plate it like I’m at my favorite brunch spot (I’m planning on ordering this new set). I use my cute dish towel, pour juice in a real glass, and if I have fresh flowers—those go on the table too. It takes two extra minutes but completely changes the mood.
3. I turn on my “weekend feels” playlist
Music changes everything. I made a playlist that feels like golden hour on Nantucket—light, breezy, nostalgic. Whether I’m tidying up, working out, or just sitting outside, it makes everything feel more special.
4. I treat myself to something small
I’m not talking big purchases. Just a little something to look forward to—like a $5 bouquet at Trader Joe’s, a delicious latte from the French Bakery, or a fresh lip balm. It’s my way of saying, “You did a lot this week—here’s a little something to celebrate that.”
5. I refresh a space in my home
Friday afternoons are my favorite time to fluff the pillows, wipe down the counters, and light a fresh candle. I might swap in a coastal throw or add new flowers to the kitchen counter. That tiny reset makes the whole weekend feel lighter.
6. I plan a cozy movie night
Nancy Meyers classics are always at the top of my list (of course), but sometimes it’s just a sweet rom-com or a throwback favorite. I pop some popcorn (love my popcorn bowl), grab my favorite throw blanket, and it instantly feels like the coziest summer Friday night.
7. I do a mini spa night
I’ll pull out my favorite face scrub and face mask, take a long shower with an exfoliator, and paint my nails while watching something fun. Just one hour of pampering makes me feel so refreshed and ready for the new week.
Romanticizing your weekend doesn’t mean planning some elaborate getaway. It’s about turning the everyday into something worth remembering—with things you already have around you. It’s a mindset. A little slower, a little more beautiful, a little more you.
Let me know if you try any of these—or what little rituals make your weekends feel extra sweet. I’m always looking for more simple ways to make life feel full of heart.
Want more coastal-inspired favorites like this?
I share new coastal stories every day to help you bring a little seaside joy into your closet, home, and daily life. I hope you enjoyed, How I Romanticize My Summer Weekends (Without Spending a Fortune). If you’re new here, welcome! I’d love for you to subscribe to the Beautifully Seaside newsletter where I share my latest posts, coastal must haves, and more. If you loved this post, you’ll want to read how to make every weekend feel like a coastal getaway.
Beautiful breakfast image by 86 Cannon in Charleston
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