“Unless you open yourself up to new things, you’ll miss finding what you love.”
The unknown author of this quote has major wisdom. The truth of these words is louder than me singing in my car at the top of my lungs at a stoplight while the driver next to me pretends not to look. Being open to new things as individuals and as a couple makes the partnership so much stronger. Adventuring together and finding new things we love is a big part of building growth and joy in our relationship.
During our stay at the Lux, a romantic tiny home built with love by Kevin and Liz - owners of Tiny Stays Berlin - we came upon this storybook spot on Main street in Baltic, Ohio. The Lux is in its own class of tiny home rentals and these 3 places pair perfectly. Joining the Lux in quality, sophisticated atmosphere, and charm, I’m sharing 3 places that come together to make the perfect date night.
Baltic Mill Winery
The first stop we made was The Baltic Mill Winery. This vintage flour mill was brought back to life and given a renovation in 2014. To keep the history of the mill alive, the machinery was kept in place to tell the story. We loved catching a glimpse of the historic hardware that was used back when the mill was in its prime. Sitting by the fire sipping new whites and reds was a wonderful slow moving moment. It was refreshing to have nowhere to rush to and all the time to be together. Just like the way we did when we were dating. We made sure to grab a bottle of their Noiret - which is fantastic if you like a dry red wine - and headed off to dinner across the street at East Main Kitchen.
East Main Kitchen
It becomes a new memory, eating someplace new that's deeply enjoyable with someone you love. For us, it marks a moment of happiness that's unforgettable. East Main Kitchen is one of those places. My husband and I love to connect creatively so this little gem of a place was the perfect addition to our romantic getaway together at the Lux. The staff at East Main Kitchen is super friendly and the chef has created a menu that rivals many of our favorite places we frequent in the Columbus area. They clearly care about great food. The flavor of our entrees was rich and complex, and came with a side of fresh microgreens, yum! Did you know that East Main uses a Big Green Egg? It’s the brand name of a kamado-style ceramic charcoal barbecue cooker. A cooking device with multiple personalities acting as a grill, oven, or smoker depending on the dish. This restaurant has a great atmosphere and we walked out really wishing we were regulars.
Leaf and Linen
After dinner, heading over to Leaf + Linen is like walking into the store you always wished was right uptown from you. Think urban but cozier. The perfect layout and modern design leave you feeling sophisticated enough to have more linen shirts, skirts, dresses, and oh, look at that cute plant - perfect for the bare windowsill at home. Their inventory inspires you to fill your home with beautiful things. Marilyn & Jana are the owners of this little store. They share a love for plants and a passion for elegant & classy clothing. Make sure you check out their website to see the theatre Jana & Zac remodeled into a gorgeous home. It’s truly inspirational. I’m thinking of redecorating a few things at home after all that beauty.
One of my absolute favorite finds at Leaf + Linen is a collection of rugs from a business called Encounter Morocco. They started their business back in 2019 with the hope of supplying a larger market for local women to sell rugs. Erica - the owner along with her husband Derek - shared with me that every rug is handwoven or hand-knotted and made in the homes of the women of the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. This skill is detailed, time demanding, and passed down from generation to generation making the rugs, history, and culture a lesson in themselves. Through their rugs, Encounter Morocco introduces you to people we may never meet but can be connected to through a love of handcrafted designs. We love that this company works hard to bring fair and consistent income for women using the time and skill required to weave these rugs.
With full hearts from an East Main Kitchen experience, a bottle of Noiret from Baltic Mill Winery, and a few elegant treasures to commemorate the trip from Leaf + Linen - including that gorgeous Moroccan rug from Encounter Morocco - the best date night ever keeps on going. Back to your new favorite romantic tiny home to soak in the gratitude of being together, wrapped in blessing.
On our adventure list for our return trip to the Lux, we will definitely be adding The Hatchet Club in Sugarcreek. Ax throwing plus the moody atmosphere in their sophisticated lounge is an experience we can’t wait to try.
With so much to do and unique things to experience, you’re guaranteed to find some new favorites and kindle new sparks of love in the adventure of being together as a couple.
The Lux will keep your moments and memories until you return to her again. By Kim Foulis