We all love a good romantic comedy—the grand gestures, the meet-cutes, the perfectly timed declarations of love in the pouring rain. Rom-coms make us laugh, cry, and believe in the magic of love. But as therapists, we can’t help but notice that Hollywood has a way of… let’s say, stretching the truth when it comes to relationships.

Take “love at first sight”—it’s a staple in nearly every rom-com. But while instant attraction is real, true love isn’t built in a three-minute montage. Or what about the grand gesture—rushing through an airport, interrupting a wedding, holding up a boombox outside someone’s window? In real life, love isn’t about one big moment; it’s about showing up, day after day, with honesty and effort.

The truth is, relationships don’t follow a perfect Hollywood script. But if we take a step back, rom-coms do get some things right—like the importance of laughter, vulnerability, and taking a chance on love.

So, enjoy the rom-com magic, but when it comes to real relationships, remember: the best love stories aren’t written in a single scene—they’re built, day by day, with care and intention.