DATING ON A BUDGET

BY RAMONA ROBERTS

What makes the perfect date? For some, it’s all in the details and price tag, while for others, it’s all about the intent and time together. Both are logical standards and represent real people. There’s nothing wrong with spending some extra money to make a date extra special, however, not all of us may have the money to provide the fanciest date. There are ways to make dates memorable and magical without running your pockets dry or overspending. With that, here are a few tips to help us all date on a budget.

1. Choose Unique Locations

It’s not about how expensive the place is, but the experience it can provide. Some of the best restaurants aren’t the upscale 5-star type, but family businesses or small community staples. Most of the time people go, not just because the food is great, but because the atmosphere, service and overall experience is special. This goes well beyond restaurants and can relate to museums, skating rinks, theatres, etc. Choosing a location with something special about it shows your effort (which, by the way, is always attractive).

2. Bring the Date to You

If you are blessed with your own space, hosting a date at home is a good money saver. However, it can come off really tacky if you don’t execute it correctly. Make sure your home is clean and presentable. If you can’t cook, order something nice (no Chinese). Some wine or champagne would be a nice touch as well. Try making an actual plan for the night so it doesn’t seem like a typical “Netflix and chill.” Activities like baking together while watching a tutorial, karaoke singalong on youtube, card & board games, and even 2k can make for a fun and memorable night.

3. Groupon

I know coupons can come off tacky. But in my opinion, Groupon is definitely the exception. It’s a great tool to find deals for dates that typically may be more expensive. Groupon has everythingfrom a trip to the spa, Sky Zone, or even go karts. It’s even a great way to find different dates that are out of the box and unique.

4. Research Research Research

There is always something happening, you just have to know about it. Here’s an easy tip: Google. There ar a lot of things happening in your area or cities nearby. You can also access your local news outlets or radio stations to find updates on events, concerts, fairs, and so much more. It is also a good idea to get some information on your date. I’m not saying stalk their social media, but learn about them, their interests and what they like to do. We should know by now that none of us are good at mind-reading. Make an effort to learn your date and by doing so, choosing things to do will be a lot easier.

5. Be Spontaneous

Last but not least, keep your boo on their toes. I personally love a spontaneous date and I know I’m not the only one. There’s a good amount of us that love a phone call starting with “Get dressed, we’re going out” or “I’m outside.” Surprise dates are a great way to keep the focus on the adventure of the date, rather than how fancy the date actually is. Another idea is adding some creativity to your spontaneous approach.

All in all, dating is supposed to be fun and focused on enjoying each other’s time. This is just a reminder there are ways to do that in a financially stable way.