Contributed by: kellyseal on Monday, February 07 2011 @ 08:35 am
Last modified on
As we all know, many people are having a rough time financially these days. Homes are in foreclosure and the unemployment rate is hovering above 10%. These aren't exactly rich times, so what do you do if you don't have much money and you're dating?
This may go without saying, but you don't have to impress dates with where you take them or how much money you spend. Most are looking for creativity and thoughtfulness, which means you don't have to go into debt just to take a few dates out to dinner. That said, you shouldn't look like you're pinching pennies either.
Following are a few guidelines to spice up your dating life without spending a lot of money or looking too cheap:
Do something besides dinner. Instead of another dinner at a pricey restaurant, try grabbing a bottle of wine and some cheese and taking your date to a local park or beach for a romantic rendezvous. If it's too cold, take her to a wine tasting.
Explore the city. Walk around downtown or through a new area you haven't seen before (Chinatown anyone?). Stop by galleries, museums, or a local coffee shop. There are plenty of less expensive options and you get a chance to explore new neighborhoods.
Do it yourself! Instead of going out, invite her over to your place for a homemade meal. Try an interesting recipe and create a romantic atmosphere with candles and dim lighting.
Don't itemize the bill. Even if she ordered steak and dessert and you ordered a bowl of soup, don't itemize the bill down to the penny. If she offers to split, just cut the check down the middle. You make a better impression and besides, you aren't paying for the whole thing.
Don't use coupons. Sure, you got a coupon in the mail for a trendy upscale restaurant and would like to try it out on a date. Don't. You're much better off going to a less expensive place and paying the bill. Your date doesn't want to feel you're taking her somewhere because you got a discount.