With the economy the way it is we have all pondered ways to save money. Even if the recession hasn’t hit your job yet, you probably have wondered what you would do if it did. We all have become just a little bit more conscious of the dollars we are spending. There is no reason to let your dating life suffer just because you don’t have major bucks to spend. We have just forgotten how to have good cheap fun, but with a little creativity you will forget you are even on a cheap date!
The first date
I am big on the man being chivalrous and treating the gal like a lady at all times, but especially on the first date! When a man asks a woman out they need to plan their evening and make her feel special. This doesn’t HAVE to cost a lot of money for you guys.
On the first date you should never take the woman anywhere too secluded (your apartment or off the beaten path). This may make her feel uncomfortable. Try theses inexpensive ideas and get out of the house instead.
• Stop by a local flower stand or grocery store and pick up flowers. A mixed bouquet or single rose or carnation will do. A 5$ flower or bouquet goes a long way to say I care about this date.
• Have a picnic around sunset at a public park or beach (weather permitting). Make the food yourself or let a local deli do it for you. Get a few servings of gourmet cheese and wine. This is a great low cost way for both of you to eat. You will be out in public but be able to give each other your full attention and really get to know one another.
• Explore local art museums, community theatre, and local exhibits. Check around online and call the chamber of commerce to find out what is available in your area. Museums are usually free or just a few dollars admission. Go ice skating or roller-blading. Community plays and orchestras are also usually budget-friendly.
• Stop by a local coffee shop for dessert. For fewer than 10 bucks you can each get a coffee and split a gourmet dessert! YUM!
Don’t let being strapped for cash stop you from asking a girl out on a first date. Remember the first date is all about giving someone your full attention. No texting or messing with your cell phone. The girl will care more about the thought you put into planning the date than the money you spent on it. Shelling out 100 bucks for dinner at a five star restaurant doesn’t take much thought.
When you are in a relationship
Being in a relationship you probably have an idea of what type of financial situation the other person is in. If your companion is in a financial drought don’t put more pressure on them by insisting going on expensive dates. This will just put strain on the relationship.
Try any of the date ideas from the first date tips above, or you can try these:
• Cook dinner at home. Break out nice dishes, fabric napkins, use a tablecloth, and put a few candles around to set the mood. You can surprise your date or make fixing the dinner together part of the fun. Turn the TV off and put on some background music. Really savor the food and enjoy the moment.
• Have a movie night. Order a pizza or pop in your favorite TV dinner. Rent a DVD and cuddle on the couch. Popcorn, candy, and cokes are so much cheaper at home!
• Get outside. We all mean to exercise more, but rarely get around to doing it. Take a stroll around your neighborhood or through a nearby park or beach. Also, consider taking up a new outdoor activity together. Many cities provide free tennis and basketball courts. You could also transform your backyard into your own personal recreational center by adding horse shoes, a volleyball net, bad mitten, or darts.
• Host a couples’ party. Invite some of your friends over. Everyone can bring one inexpensive homemade dish. Tell everyone to also bring their favorite board games from home. You can have a potluck or set a theme for the night such as Mexican. Take turns hosting the party with couples in your area on a weekly or monthly basis. Make it interesting-each party can have a new theme and new game!
Use your imagination and you will save money and maybe even forget about the economy for a while!
Brandi Hamrick
www.brandihamrick.com
Tags: dating, first date, recession
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