Art by Megan Gourley
Spring has sprung, which means it's officially time for florals, overpriced coffee and of course, all things rom-com! Many will argue that February or December are the official rom-com watching months, but I beg to differ. When the sun comes out, the flowers bloom and you start to hear sneezing in the air, that is the perfect time to become your very own leading lady.
Let me preface this by saying this is not a guide to a perfect match. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Sure, our favorite romantic comedies have another love interest involved, but let’s be honest; no one cares about the leading man. The main character, aka the heroine, is who we all want to be. So, let me share my secrets with you on how to have the dreamiest spring. The shortlist of what films, music and activities you need to soak up this season.
1. Flirty, 30 and Thriving!
The feeling of a perfect rom-com; joy, excitement, hilarity, and sentimentality all wrapped up into one. No decade captured these emotions better than the early 2000s. Although there are so many to choose from, my picks for this spring have to start with one of my absolute favorites, The Princess Diaries. This movie is such a star-studded classic and Anne Hathaway’s regal transformation is always my goal for a seasonal reset. Bonus points if you also watch the sequel (which is even better than the original).
Next, I would recommend Maid in Manhattan. This rags to riches story is one of many classic J-Lo rom coms, and features New York in such a gorgeous way, anyone would be inspired to take a stroll through their nearby park and stop to smell the roses. Next is How to Lose A Guy In 10 Days and 27 Dresses. Both of these on-screen couples have such great chemistry and even more comedic moments. These two soundtracks also both feature very butchered covers of some classic songs, with “You’re so Vain” in one and “Bennie and the Jets” in the other, which might inspire some terrible karaoke in your future.
Finally, I would end this list with one of my favorite movies, 13 Going on 30. Jennifer Garner is a classic girl next door who learns to embrace who she is, even the silliest parts. This movie’s style, message and love story is the perfect way to cap off a spring movie marathon.
Now, in order to keep those lovey dovey feelings in the air, we’ll need a good playlist.
2. Feel the Rain on Your Skin!
There are a lot of songs from this era that exude peak springtime energy. Artists like Norah Jones, Natasha Beningfield and Sara Bareillies have light, poppy sounds that are perfect for a stroll to your local coffee shop. Many of the rom-coms I mentioned earlier also feature a ton of classics from the 1980s and 90s. Any greatest hits album from those decades featuring the likes of Hall and Oates, The Cranberries and Kelly Clarkson is a perfect fit. A lot of modern artists have also allowed this type of music to resurface in modern times. Clairo is a great example of an artist that should be on repeat this season, especially her latest album Juna. In the spirit of college radio, some non-Top 40 artists to stream this spring include Allen Stone, Betty Taylor and Katy Kirby.
With all of these different types of media to absorb, it’s time to round out this guide with a few new hobbies to add to your seasonal checklist!
3. Hot Girl Walk!
I've already mentioned quite a few times in this post the most 2000s rom-com activity that I can think of, which is, of course, taking a stroll while sipping on your iced coffee of choice and grooving to your newly-curated playlist. More bonus points if you’re wearing the most springy, flowy look you can find in your closet. Other options for newfound hobbies could be journaling, trying a new craft, thrifting your 2000s wardrobe, or even having a picnic with some friends. As long as you bring that magical mentality and embrace whatever makes you feel your best, any activity can be the first spring step into your very own rom-com. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even meet your co-star along the way!
Well, I hope this guide from your resident movie-loving hopeless romantic helps you get in the spirit this spring. And if you ever need help remembering what to do, just turn on your favorite 2000s rom-com and reminisce.
"A Queen is never late, everybody else is simply early."- Julie Andrews, The Princess Diaries
Hi! My name is Tara and I’m a Mass Communications major with a minor in Media Arts! On Wednesdays from 8-9pm I go by DJ T and host the radio show “Midnight Snacks” here on WUSC :)