I love all aspects of love, the initial spark, the butterflies, the endless possibilities, and the hope that every new connection brings. For me, no matter how many heartbreaks I’ve endured or how many relationships didn’t pan out, I’ve never been the type to let go of the beauty of love. Yep, I’m her, the one planning our wedding by date three, already imagining how our last name will look on a mailbox. Call me a hopeless romantic, but I wear that badge with pride. And honestly, I think it’s time more of us embraced it.

And I know, in a world that sometimes feels jaded, being a hopeless romantic is a radical act. I get it, but it means believing in magic when others might not. It’s about being open to possibilities, even when past experiences try to whisper, “Don’t do it friend.” It’s about staying true to yourself, your dreams, and your desires while being brave enough to put your heart back out there, time and time again.

Starting Over Isn’t a Setback; It’s a Superpower

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that starting over doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re choosing yourself. Do you see the pattern here? It’s a reminder that you’re not afraid to try again, to love again, and to dream again. When you’ve been through enough heartbreak, it’s easy to close off your heart and say, “I’m done.” But choosing to stay open despite the past? That’s strength.

I know what some of you are thinking, intentional dating over 30? Yikes. The apps, the ghosting, the endless “What are we?” texts—it can all feel exhausting! And I’m not saying give everyone that comes your way a chance, but I believe this chapter of our lives is the perfect time to date with purpose and passion.

Hopeless Romantic Doesn’t Mean Hopeless Boundaries

Here’s the thing: being a hopeless romantic doesn’t mean throwing your boundaries out of the window. It means loving deeply while standing firm on your values and your vision for a healthy relationship. Don’t forget them.

In my 20s, I might have bent over backward to fit into a man’s world and I was for sure sending the “What are we?” text. But in my 30s? Oh, no, honey. We’re setting clear boundaries and standing ten toes down on what we want and need in our partner.

Take some time to reflect on your non-negotiables. What are your absolute “nope” moments, the things you won’t tolerate? What are your “yes, please” qualities—the things that make you light up inside? Write them down if you need to and let them be your compass. DO NOT LOSE FOCUS ON THIS.

Because even if you choose to plan your wedding on date three, you’re also asking the real questions:

• Can we communicate openly and honestly?

• Do our values align?

• Are they emotionally available and willing to grow alongside me?

We’re not settling for potential; we’re dating with purpose. I never want you to feel like you’ve settled for less than you deserve.

Why You Should Get Back Out There

For my fellow 30 and uppers who’ve been burned, ghosted, or let down, let me remind you: love is still very much worth it. We’re in the prime of our lives, with so much to offer. We’ve learned what works for us and what doesn’t. We’ve cried the tears, healed the wounds, and come out stronger.

Now is the time to embrace dating like the hopeless romantics we truly are. Put yourself out there, but again not just for anyone, for the right one.

Flirt with that cute bank teller you see every other Friday. Go to church. Join the dating apps (and be honest about what you’re looking for), also don’t swipe like you’re on IG bored, slow down and be intentional. Say yes to blind dates or those corny speed-dating events you swore you’d never attend. Shit, add me as your Facebook Matchmaker! Step into every connection with an open heart, but also with a discerning mind.

The Beauty of Romance at Every Age

Love isn’t just about the big moments, it’s about the little ones, too. It’s about stolen glances, shared laughter, and finding someone who makes you feel seen. It’s about late-night conversations, early-morning texts, and the way someone’s touch can make you feel at home. We make time for who we want to make time for regardless of how hectic our day-to-day lives are.

And here’s the truth: you’re worthy of that kind of love. You deserve someone who meets you where you are and celebrates the hopeless romantic in you. But most importantly, you deserve to love yourself fiercely first, so that when the right person comes along, they’re simply adding to your already-full cup.

So, here’s my advice: Reclaim romance. Dive back into dating with your heart wide open and standards high. Let’s plan those imaginary weddings by date three and still be willing to walk away if someone doesn’t honor our boundaries. Let’s choose love again and again, without fear.

Because no matter how many times we’ve fallen, there’s always a chance to rise again, hand-in-hand with someone who’s willing to dream as big as we do. I can’t wait for my wedding invite from you.

Xoxo, Drea