COUPLES can spend time together and strengthen their marriage by joining a mass picnic at the Botanic Gardens, and play games through which they can deepen their understanding of their spouse.

Those who sign up for the picnic on March 20 will get a free picnic basket of food and beverages worth over $100.

About 1,000 couples are expected to join the picnic, part of a National Family Council (NFC) marriage-strengthening campaign, now in its second year.

Other highlights: discounted rates for movies and popcorn, and a contest where the public can vote for its favourite love story involving a special recipe, submitted by 10 Singapore couples.

For details, visit www. marriagecentral.sg

Researcher Chong Wei Seah, 31, who will take his wife of two years to the picnic, said: "I took my wife to a picnic on our first date, so picnics hold a special meaning for us."

"We are also interested in mingling with other couples."

To promote the campaign, NFC set up a roving Real Love Works structure outside Wisma Atria yesterday, where couples could pledge their love.

Insurance executive Sam Tan, 47, who signed it with his wife of 17 years, beauty consultant Priscilla Ngan, 38, said: "We schedule weekly dates without our daughter and I buy her flowers every Sunday...You should not take your spouse for granted."

NFC chairman Anita Fam agreed, saying: "A marriage takes work, and couples have to work to sustain their marriage."

The structure will be at Bugis Junction on March 6 and 7, HDB Hub on March 13 and 14, and Raffles Place on March 16 and 17.

cheryll@sph.com.sg

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