Bedtime Story Ideas
Choose a Setting. Once you decide to start a love story, having a setting or location helps the plot become more apparent. If you’re in the mood for fantasy, try a desert island or a medieval castle. Your location can be as exotic as a cruise ship sailing through the Pacific Ocean or as familiar as the jewelry store at the mall.
Outline Your Plot. Start with an outline that focuses on the main points of the plot. Think about how you’ll set up the story, what the major conflict will be, and what resolution (if any) will occur at the end. As you begin to add more plot points throughout, the entire story will start to come together.
Focus on a Theme. No matter what genre or plot you use, your story will deal with a particular theme. Think about where your relationship is currently and what your girlfriend may be thinking about. Pick a theme that speaks to her concerns, worries, or thoughts about the two of you and what your love represents. Some popular story themes include the following: Romantic Stories: Classic tales of romance and adventure; usually have a happy ending. Funny Stories: Stories with humor at their core; includes funny, entertaining dialogue. Real-Life Stories: Based on your lives, those you know, or people who inspire you both. Fantasy Stories: The sky’s the limit when it comes to characters, plot, and the world you create.
Romantic Bedtime Stories for Girlfriends
My Only LoveThey say you fall in love a few times in life, but for me, it only happened once.People came and went, and everyone wondered why I never chose anyone. Sometimes, I even questioned myself. But deep down, I was waiting—for someone who’d make my heart race, someone worth every risk. Then, you appeared.For the first time, I understood what love truly meant. It wasn’t just the butterflies; it was the commitment to stick through the highs and lows. With you, I’m ready to sacrifice, rebuild, and do whatever it takes—because you are my one. My only love.
The Fresh Old LoveAs the soft breeze kissed his cheeks, Warren’s heart swelled with joy, though nerves twisted in his stomach. He clutched Layla’s hand close to his chest, wanting her to feel the space she held there.No amount of holding felt enough. He wanted her forever.Dropping to one knee, he presented a simple African bead ring. “Layla, my love, will you be my wife?”She hesitated, eyes misty with love. “Yes, Warren! I’d be honored!”In that moment, Warren forgot their 22-year marriage, but Layla whispered, “I’ll never stop loving you.
The crisp autumn air danced around the secluded clearing in the woods, the only sound was the gentle rustle of leaves beneath their feet. Maya, her heart pounding in her chest, had carefully planned this moment for weeks—a surprise proposal to her beloved, Alex, at their favorite spot where they first confessed their love. As she reached for Alex's hand, she knelt down, pulling out a small velvet box, ready to ask the question that would change their lives.But as she opened her mouth to speak, she saw a glimmer in Alex's eyes, a silent understanding passing between them. Before Maya could utter a word, Alex was on one knee too, a ring box mirroring her own appearing in their hand."Maya," Alex began, their voice trembling with emotion, "I knew you were going to ask, and I couldn't let this moment pass without asking you the same question. Will you marry me?"A wave of stunned joy washed over Maya. She couldn't help but laugh, tears welling in her eyes as she nodded vigorously. "Yes, Alex, yes!"They embraced, their laughter echoing through the silent woods as they slipped the rings onto each other's fingers. In that moment, the unspoken pact, the shared dream of a future together, was solidified in a beautiful, unplanned double proposal, a testament to their deep love and unwavering commitment to one another.
The Princess Who Saved Her PrinceOnce upon a time, there lived unrivaled beauty and grace, a princess who lived in the kingdom of love. She was the most beloved daughter of the King, and she cherished her days in the warmth of her family.One day, however, a greedy dragon kidnaps her prince from his castle. The princess knew it would be up to her alone to save him from certain death!So, with her heart and a sword in hand, she set off on an epic quest across dangerous lands. On this journey, she faced many obstacles—wild beasts and fierce warriors—but never had fear or doubt plagued her mind. With each step closer to him, the more determined she became.Finally, after much struggle and peril, the princess reached the dragon’s den. With one powerful thrust, she plunged her sword into the beast and left it for dead. The princess and prince then married, living happily ever after—thanks to her!
Forgetful HusbandOnce there was a husband who was always forgetting essential things. Almost every little thing he did was forgotten in the next few minutes—even cute bedtime stories—and his wife would have to remind him.One night, he forgot to buy his wife a present for her birthday. So, he came up with an idea. He took a giant box, put a ribbon on his head, and hid inside the box.When his wife opened the box, she was so surprised to see her husband in there. “What does all that mean?” she asked. He said, “It means I will never forget anything important again!”She answered: “But you ordered me a bouquet of roses instead of a present. They delivered it first, and I thought it was from you!”The husband took his phone out of his pocket and saw an opened tab advertising a flower shop. He said, “Oh my! Does it mean I shouldn’t have to put that ribbon on my head?” They both laughed and then they had a lovely romantic evening.
Whispers of LoveOn a beautiful night, a girl wanted to tell her special one what she felt for him. She thought he was sleeping, and so she leaned in close to his ear and whispered softly, "Just like it is difficult to count the number of stars in the sky, it is difficult to measure my love for you. I love you with all my heart, and soul."The boy opened his eyes, pulled her closer to him, and said, "I love you too, honey. Thank you for these sweet words, and I promise you I will be by your side now and always."
Love You Till EternityA husband came back home and presented a dozen flowers to his wife. She was very happy to receive them but was a bit perplexed when she saw that one flower was artificial. Out of curiosity, she asked her husband, "Honey, why did you give me 11 fresh flowers, and one artificial one?"The husband smiled and answered, “Be it real or artificial flowers, they might fade away one day, but my love for you will never ever fade, my darling."
Cute Bedtime Stories for Girlfriends
Show Me YoursWhile on a camping trip, a guy wanted to express his love to his new girlfriend using comparisons.He told her of the great love portrayed by Romeo to Juliet, and that of Jack for Rose in the Titanic. He went on trying to please her with the prose of what love can be.“Love is like the sun, it’s warm and shines bright; It’s like a butterfly, rare and gentle; Love is like a violin, the music may end but the strings remain…would you let me show you such love?”She looked at him longingly and replied with a simple “No.” He heard his heart sink.“I want you to show me your unique love, only yours,” she said.
Invited BrideA boyfriend asked his girlfriend, “Will you come to my wedding if I invite you?” The girlfriend was shocked. Of all things, she hadn’t been expecting this. In fact, she had been expecting her boyfriend to propose to her! She stuttered a weak, “Wha..what? Are you seeing someone else? Have your parents found a match for you?” The boyfriend laughed and said, “No, my dearest! I want to marry you and was about to invite you to my wedding as a bride. Will you accept the invitation?” The girlfriend couldn’t believe what she heard and answered with a resounding “YES!” and a kiss.
Best of the bestA boy and a girl were deeply in love. The girl once asked the boy, “Do you think I am pretty?” The boy answered, “No.” The girl was disappointed with his answer, but she asked the following question anyway, “Do you want to be with me forever?” The boy said “No” again. The girl’s eyes filled up with tears. “Will you be sad if I leave you?” she asked. The boy said, “No.” The girl decided to walk away. She had just turned when the boy caught her arm and turned her tear-streaked face towards himself. He said, “You asked if you were pretty, and I said no because you are not just pretty, but you are the most beautiful woman on this planet. You asked me if I wanted you, and I said no because I don’t want you, but I need you like we need oxygen. You asked me if I would be sad if you left me, and I said no because I will no longer be alive when you leave me.” When she heard these passionate words, the girl smiled through her tears and hugged the boy tightly.
WordsA husband read an article to his wife about how many words women use a day… 30,000 to a man’s 15,000.The wife replied, “The reason has to be because we have to repeat everything to men.The husband then turned to his wife and asked, “What?”
CreationA man said to his wife one day, “I don’t know how you can be so stupid and so beautiful all at the same time.”The wife responded, “Allow me to explain.God made me beautiful so you would be attracted to me; God made me stupid so I would be attracted to you!
A husband and wife go to a counselor after 15 years of marriage.The counselor asks them what the problem is and the wife goes into a tirade listing every problem they have ever had in the 15 years they’ve been married. She goes on and on and on.Finally, the counselor gets up, walks around the desk, embraces the wife, and kisses her passionately. The woman shuts up and sits quietly in a daze.The counselor turns to the husband and says, “This is what your wife needs at least three times a week. Can you do this?”The husband thinks for a moment and replies, “Well, I can drop her off here on Mondays and Wednesdays, but on Fridays, I fish.”
Short Bedtime Stories for Girlfriends
The Photo ProposalJack and Linda were strolling away from their picnic basket, their eyes fixated on the beautiful setting sun beyond the mountains.“We are beautiful,” Jack whispered in her ear. “Can I take a photo of you alone?”Hastily, she asked, “Why? I’d love a photo of us.”He knew she didn’t get his point so as if ignoring what she just said, he went on one knee in front of her, camera in hand, and said, “I’d like our children to know how their mom looked today, would you marry me?”
A Promise of Undying LoveWhen they got in bed, Scott cupped Annie’s face in his hands and softly whispered, “I’ll never stop loving you.”She challenged him, “What can you do to prove your undying love for me?” This came unexpected to Scott but he promised to prove it to her somehow.A week later, he came home with seven flowers. With a cheeky look on his face, he told her, “Here’s my proof of my undying love for you…I’ll always love you until the last flower dies.”She was confused for a minute but after checking the flowers closely, she realized that one was an artificial flower. Like the undying flower, so was his love.
I Can’t Stop Loving YouA certain guy loved his girlfriend but had commitment issues. Knowing his fears, he broke up with her.Eight months later, they met at the grocery store.Nervously, they asked each other their relationship status.Both were single since the relationship.The girl asked him why he’s not in a relationship. He said, “I can’t stop loving you.”She demanded the real reason why he broke it off and he explained his commitment problems. They went to a counselor together and he chose to be with her no matter what.His wedding vows started, “Sara, I can’t stop loving you…”.
Girl TalkTwo ladies were discussing what dress they should wear for the party that night. One said she would wear brown attire as her husband has brown hair. The other one exclaimed, what should I wear as my husband has no hair? Both of them had a good laugh!
The Intoxicated BoyfriendOne night, a woman had to pick her tipsy lover up from the bar. She was angry with him, but she could do little more than drag him into the car. The girlfriend somehow dragged him up to their apartment and helped him onto the bed, where she started removing his soiled clothes. First, his shoes came off and then his shirt, but when she reached the fastener of his pants, he pushed her away, shouting, “Go away, woman! I have a girlfriend I love very much! Don’t you dare touch me!” The girlfriend found herself chuckling as she changed and went to sleep.
Long Bedtime Stories for Girlfriends
The Moon's MatchmakingLayla gazed up at the full moon as it casts a luminous glow across the rippling lake. Though miles stretched between them tonight, she knew her beloved Gabriel was looking at that same lunar body, feeling connected through its ethereal light.“Soon, the distance won't separate us, my love,” she whispered into the darkness.She smiled, thinking of the way his eyes would twinkle under the moonlight once they were reunited. How his arms would envelop her in a tender embrace. How they'd kiss with a passion intensified by the weeks apart.Layla pictured the moonlit picnic she planned to surprise Gabriel with upon his return. Hand in hand, they'd stroll along the lakeshore, the rocky sand sparkling under the moon's brilliance. They'd sip wine and feast on cheeses and fruits while the peaceful waters gently lapped the shoreline.Later, they'd sprawl out on soft blankets to stargaze. She'd point out the constellations she'd taught herself to recognize in his absence. He'd speak of the Southern Hemisphere's stars he'd come to know. They'd find Jupiter together, marveling at its radiance.Under the spell of luminous moonlight, they'd make up for lost time, stealing kisses and laughing together again until the eastern sky glowed with the faintest hint of dawn.The moon's magic sustained them until they could reunite under the stars once more. Just one more month, she reminded herself, gazing heavenward. The cratered orb above kept watch over them both, linking their hearts through land and sea divided their bodies.
Weathering the StormThe rain hurled violently against the windows as angry thunderclouds rolled across the late evening sky. Inside the dark house, Evelyn and James sat on opposite ends of the couch, tense and silent after another painful argument.Evelyn blinked back hot tears, and her arms crossed protectively around herself. James stared stoically ahead, jaw clenched, shoulders rigid. The rumbling storm echoed the turbulence simmering dangerously between them.Evelyn studied a crack in the hardwood floor, eyes following its jagged path to avoid looking at her husband. She thought of the cutting words thrown like knives just minutes before. The mess in the kitchen still needed cleaning, she realized absently. And the kids' lunches needed packing for tomorrow, their backpacks by the door. Life went on somehow, even when storms rocked relationships.Slowly, hesitantly, James reached for her hand, resting clenched on the cushion between them. Evelyn recoiled defensively at first, then allowed him to take it, giving a gentle squeeze. His hand felt as comforting and familiar as ever.“I'm sorry,” he said softly. “I never should have said those things. I was angry, but that's no excuse.”Outside, the rain began to dissipate as the thunderclouds drifted on. And within, two hearts began mending as well. The painful storm had passed its fury. They turned towards each other.
Through the YearsOn their first date, Henry picked Eva up in a borrowed car with a broken radio. As they drove aimlessly through the countryside for hours, they fell into an exhilarating conversation about art, dreams, and favorite flavors of ice cream.Under starry skies, Henry worked up the nerve to kiss Eva for the first time and felt her smile against his lips. Her lip gloss tastes like strawberries.Thirty years and two kids later, life had weathered them some—gray hairs, reading glasses, wrinkles that hadn't been there before, pounds gained and lost again.But that lively energy sparking between them remained. Now they meandered down wooded trails hand in hand instead of country backroads, still exploring together. At night, they danced slowly in the kitchen to old songs on the radio, her head nestled on his shoulder.And that familiar magnetic pull endured, drawing their lips together instinctively after all these years, kissing with the same passion as that very first kiss under the dazzling stars.
Funny Bedtime Stories for Girlfriends
Perfect WomanOne morning, a boyfriend took a photograph of his girlfriend when she had just woken up. “Ugh, I look horrible! Why are you taking my picture when I have no make-up on, and my hair is all over the place?” she questioned. The boyfriend smiled and answered, “I want to show my kids that their mother is beautiful even without make-up and combed hair. She is perfect; the most perfect woman on Earth.”
Princess Pillow PotionPrincess Luna had struggled with terrible insomnia ever since she was just a little girl. Night after restless night, she would toss and turn for hours in her plush bed before her exhausted mind would finally succumb to sleep just before dawn. Luna was utterly desperate for a cure and willing to try anything—even magic.She summoned the wise old royal potion master to her chambers and pleaded for his help. “Please, you must concoct a powerful elixir that will make me sleep soundly through the night.”The potion master insisted he could help the princess but that she must choose between two mysterious potions, for only one could be brewed before nightfall. Each would have odd side effects. The red potion would turn her pillow temporarily into a giant stack of fluffy pancakes while drinking the blue one would grant her donkey ears for just one night.After much anxious contemplation, Princess Luna decided she would try the red potion and accept the pancake pillow consequences over animal attributes. Right before bed, she eagerly gulped the sweet strawberry-scented formula down. After saying goodnight to the potion master, she nestled into her fluffy pillow, which promptly transformed into a heaping stack of pancakes! Luna discovered they weren't very comfy to lay on, but they were at least quite delicious for a midnight snack. Most importantly, the magic worked, and Luna fell fast asleep until morning!Upon waking well rested, Luna decided next time she would try the blue potion and endure an evening with donkey ears if it meant she could look forward to finally getting some restful sleep. After all, one night of long ears was worth it for a lifetime of good sleep.
The Traveling TeacupOn weekends, Zadie liked browsing the cluttered antique shops in downtown Portland, searching for hidden treasures amongst the shelves crowded with knickknacks and memorabilia. One Saturday morning, her eye was drawn immediately to a delicate, fragile-looking teacup tucked away in the back corner, with lovely hand-painted violets and gold trim but chipped along the handle.Something about the dainty cup felt so familiar that Zadie was strangely overcome with a nostalgic longing as she pictured herself sipping ginger tea from it. That night she had a vivid dream of living in a quaint stone cottage centuries ago with her beloved Alex, laughing together as they shared scones and tea out of that very etched teacup.In the morning, Zadie rushed back to the shop and purchased the fateful teacup without hesitation. She knew then that the cup must have traveled through time and space to find her again, a symbol of her and Alex's souls recognizing each other across many lives and eras. Their transcendent love was destined to keep drawing them together, even across the centuries.
Marriage SeminarWhile attending a Marriage Seminar dealing with communication, Tom and his wife Grace listened to the instructor…“It is essential that husbands and wives know each other’s likes and dislikes.”Then he addressed Tom, “Can you name your wife’s favorite flower?”Tom leaned over, touched his wife’s arm gently, and whispered, “It’s Pillsbury, isn’t it?
The Silent TreatmentA man and his wife were having some problems at home and were giving each other the silent treatment.Suddenly, the man realized that the next day, he would need his wife to wake him at 5:00 AM for an early morning business flight.Not wanting to be the first to break the silence (and lose), he wrote on a piece of paper, “Please wake me at 5:00 AM.” He left it where he knew she would find it.The next morning, the man woke up, only to discover it was 9:00 AM and he had missed his flight. Furious, he was about to go and see why his wife hadn’t awakened him when he noticed a piece of paper by the bed.The paper said, “It is 5:00 AM. Wake up.”Men are not equipped for these kinds of contests.
How to Write a Bedtime Story for Your Girlfriend
Decide on a genre. Is she in the mood for something that celebrates classic romance or a quirky tale with a sense of humor? Other than choosing a genre you know your girlfriend loves (fantasy, history, true stories), how do you want her to feel after you read the story? If you want her to feel relaxed, a short fairytale-like story is best. If you want to spark an interesting conversation, a dramatic tale works well.
Choose the 3 main components of the story. The 3 parts of any story include the basic situation, the conflict that arises, and the final resolution. A romantic story usually includes two characters in conflict, but one that isn’t adversarial, because the story will end with “happily ever after.” Check out some examples below: Identify situation/event “A husband and wife are shopping for engagement rings. She’s examining each ring closely while her husband looks on.” Establish conflict “She seems bothered about the rings he’s chosen for her to look at, which worries him.” Find resolution “She sighs, and says that she’d rather he give her his school ring to wear because she’s loved him ever since they were in high school. He smiles.”
Fill in the details of the characters, setting, story, and themes. Start with whatever you have a strong image of in your mind. Slowly build the other components until you have a complete story. If you sense you’re losing the plot, go back and make adjustments to whichever detail no longer fits. Setting Choose a vibrant setting you’re fascinated with or a familiar one you can easily write about. You can also set the story somewhere special where you and your girlfriend have experienced good memories. She’ll feel more connected to the story once it’s more personalized for her. Characters If you don’t want to write about yourself and your girlfriend directly, create characters she can relate to. Decide on what kind of personalities they’ll have, along with their motivations within the story. Concentrate on the main character(s) first and then add supporting characters if your story has them. Plot Points Outline the story and choose a few main plot points. One by one, write into each part of the story. For shorter bedtime stories, each plot point may only include an exchange between the characters or 1-2 sentences. Add the Details Once you have the main story down, add elements like sounds, setting details, and descriptions. Use these details to better flesh out characters, locations, and items. Your story will come to life, so your girlfriend can lose herself in the world you’ve created for her.
How to Read a Bedtime Story to Your Girlfriend
Set the mood. Choose a comfortable area where you can read a story to your girlfriend. Decide whether she wants to fall asleep in bed or get comfy on the couch. You can curl up on the rug in front of a fire if you’re feeling particularly romantic. Dim the lights, light some candles, and close any window shades or blinds so the space feels private.
Read the story with a warm, inviting voice. Prepare yourself by looking over the story and reading it to yourself (or out loud) a few times. Do this on your own, so your girlfriend hears it for the first time when you’re ready to read it to her. Read using clear annunciation at a volume she can understand, but not so loud that she’s overwhelmed by your voice.
Personalize the story to fit your girlfriend. If you’re reading someone else’s bedtime story, try to alter a few details to better fit your girlfriend. Use her actual name when referring to the female character or change the location to one you both connect to. She’ll appreciate how close she feels to the storyline and you’ll inch closer to making your girlfriend love you even more.
Take advantage of dramatic pauses. After each paragraph, take a short pause (a few seconds), so the story sinks in. She can begin to reflect a bit on each plot point before you move on to the next one. This is especially true when reading dialogue between characters. Pause for a few seconds after one person finishes speaking and before the next one starts. EXPERT TIP Kathy Slattengren, M.Ed. Kathy Slattengren, M.Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Kathy Slattengren is a Parent Educator and Coach and the Founder of Priceless Parenting. With over two decades of experience, Kathy specializes in helping parents build strong, loving relationships with their children. She has helped thousands of parents around the world through Priceless Parenting's online classes, presentations, coaching, and books. Kathy holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Psychology from The University of Minnesota and a Masters degree in Education and Instructional Design from The University of Washington. Kathy is a member of the National Parenting Education Network, the US Alliance to End the Hitting of Children, the International Society for Technology in Education, and a founding member of Parent Learning Link. Priceless Parenting has been featured on ABC News, Komo News, King 5 News, National PTA, Parent Map, and Inspire Me Today. Kathy Slattengren, M.Ed. Kathy Slattengren, M.Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Taking a pause can give your girlfriend the opportunity to interact with the story. Ask them questions about what they think will happen next or how they think one of the characters is feeling. How would they feel or react in a similar situation?
Have a conversation to reflect on afterward. If she’s not asleep after you read your bedtime story, take the time to have a relaxed dialogue about the themes in the story. How did the main characters’ relationship come across to her? Find out if the ending feels happy and resolved, or makes her think more about the nature of love. Giving her your attention before, during, and after the bedtime story can show your girlfriend how much you care.
Benefits of Reading a Bedtime Story to Your Girlfriend
Reading to your girlfriend creates the ultimate relaxation. When you read a bedtime story to your girlfriend, it’s your voice she hears. This can provide her with a sense of comfort and safety at the end of a hard day. Your voice, along with a good story, is the perfect way to help her relax into sleep (or fall asleep altogether).
A bedtime story helps maintain your connection. If you’re in a long-distance relationship, hearing your voice reading to her can make her feel like you’re right beside her. A regular bedtime story ritual is the perfect way for you both to feel connected, even if you’re currently apart. Even if you sleep in the same bed, she’ll feel close to you after you read a romantic bedtime story softly enough for her to fall asleep to.
Reading stories can bring fond memories. She probably remembers her parents reading bedtime stories to her as a child. She likely connects those experiences to feelings of safety, comfort, and joy. As an adult, she can feel similar emotions when her partner (you) reads her the most romantic, cute, or funny bedtime stories to help her relax into sleep.
Bedtime Stories for Your Girlfriend FAQs
Are bedtime stories good for adults? Being interested in bedtime stories as an adult isn’t just due to nostalgia for your childhood. Reading bedtime stories or goodnight paragraphs for her can help her clear her mind of thoughts and worries after the day is done. Her body will follow suit by lowering adrenaline, so she can more easily and comfortably fall asleep.
What type of story should I choose based on her mood? If your girlfriend has had an exhausting day, stick to a romantic story that classically celebrates love. If she’s more energetic, go for something more lighthearted, playful, or funny. When she’s looking to check out from reality, make a fantasy or fairytale your story of choice.
Can bedtime stories explore genres other than romance? You don’t strictly need to read romantic stories to your girlfriend; other genres can produce a great reaction from her too. If she’s feeling adventurous, tell her an action-related story. When you both want to laugh, a story with humor can help you feel closer together. Wherever you choose to set your tale, you’re taking her with you to new and exciting places.
How long should a bedtime story be? The length of a bedtime story for your girlfriend depends on her mood and energy level. If she always falls asleep before the story is over, choose one that takes 5-10 minutes to read. When she’s more awake and wants to really get into a tale, tell her a story that takes 10-20 minutes to read.
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