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With the economy tanking and gas prices fluctuating wildly, I've had to change my spending habits drastically. I've stopped trying to get the best seats at concerts and sporting events (I'm OK with nosebleed), and I've turned my weekly dinners with friends into less frequent occasions. Unfortunately, those aren't the only things affected by this grim Wall Street situation: My dating life has also changed.
No, getting dates isn't the problem -- finding the money for dates is the dilemma. A dinner date can cost me more than $50, while a movie date can cost about $40 when you factor in the overpriced concessions. Drastic times call for drastic measures, so I've been forced to get a little more creative in terms of dating and stretching my paycheck. Luckily, there are ways to have fun without spending a lot -- or any -- money. Here are some inexpensive ideas I've tried out that'll get your partner to swoon (results may vary):
Cooking: If you've had to tighten your budget for eating out, opt for a meal at home. Not
only will you be able to show off your culinary skills (or lack thereof), but you'll also get some major brownie points for the effort; there's no skill in ordering off a menu.Get some recipes online (the eDiets Recipe Club has some great ones), get some ingredients and get cooking. Ultimately, it's cheaper than going to a restaurant and you have full control in setting the mood -- cheesy background music and all.
Movie Night: Instead of going to the theater, rent a movie and stay home. Granted, you won't see the latest flicks, but it's a good way to catch up on classics and semi-new releases. Aside from saving money, you can also save calories by buying air-popped popcorn; it's healthier than its microwavable (and more buttery) cousin. Plus, this is a prime opportunity for cuddling; there aren't any obstructive arm rests to stop you.
Wine Tastings: Depending on where you live, local restaurants and wineries may offer wine tastings. Many of them are either free or relatively inexpensive; $15 is the most expensive I've seen. You'll get to sample wines from all over the world and pair them up with appetizers (aka tapas). And we all know that a glass of red wine (or two) can do your heart some good. Call your favorite restaurant or visit www.localwineevents.com for more information.
What other inexpensive date ideas do you have? What has someone special done for you? Share your ideas below by leaving a comment.
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Labels: couple, man, men, relationships, romance, sex, women
Comment: October 8, 2008 6:13 PM - 
said...
I saw a blog some chick from U of Cal wrote RE: Frosh 15. www.shelbygirl.com, says she lost 45 in 5 months, took me 5 years to lose that!
Comment: October 22, 2008 3:58 AM - 
I Vs World said...
When we eat out, we usually select a place based on its ambience rather than food.... there may be some smaller outlets or take outs, where the food may be better tasting and cheaper... so if you cannot cook (Or are too lazy to cook...like i am), you can order food and then follow all the instructions as given above :)
And if u r good at lying, you may be able to pass the food as homemade ;) and grab all the praises.
Comment: October 22, 2008 10:48 AM - StickyBeets said...
i know of a guy who will contest that sex isn't a cheap date..nine months later, child support for the next 18 years has made it very expensive!...
Comment: October 26, 2008 8:40 PM - jeremy said...
Sex?! That's disgusting. Any guy that is thinking sex is a cheap date with a woman is a total pig, no matter how much he weighs.
Comment: October 27, 2008 12:27 PM - said...
I think it's a great idea to stay home for a cheap date. If you can even combine the movie idea with the cooking idea, you can have a nice, classy, romantic, and affordable night. In regards to the sex notion, if done safely and with someone you're attracted to, it's a great idea. Besides who doesn't love sex?
Comment: October 27, 2008 3:11 PM - said...
Geoffrey seems to have it all wrong when it comes to having sex on a date. He seems like someone you want to AVOID dating for sure! However, some decent creative dates would be more like making some dinner and playing some board games and make it a double date inviting a bunch of friends over. Go on a DAY date instead and go hiking/site seeing and pack a lunch. Volunteer together at a shelter for the day. You'll be doing something great and at the same time, bonding with one another. But Geofrey, before you go to the sex thing, I would start racking your brain a little harder for more inventive ways to date someone and do something good for your fellow man instead. I think Geofrey needs to go back to charm school and get his gentleman's license! Ladies be leery of this guy!
Comment: October 27, 2008 7:57 PM - said...
I like the wine tastings idea. The first two date ideas are kinda common, but I think a wine tasting is a great way to do something different.
it's also not too pricey. with the economy as bad as it is, God knows we need to save money.
Comment: October 29, 2008 3:09 AM - said...
If you live in the SF bay area, check out the Scharffen Berger factory in Berkeley, CA! Their chocolate is expensive, but they actually offer free factory tours where they sample out a variety of their products... as well as making you wear funny hairnets with your hunny. Definitely a treat for all you foodies.
Comment: October 29, 2008 8:47 AM - said...
We have a fireplace so I had a picnic in front of the fireplace ready when my b/f got home from work.
Comment: October 29, 2008 9:48 AM - said...
Me and my sweetheart have been watching our budget and we pick up Pizza - go to the park by the lake and watch the sunset while having our dinner. This is really romantic, especially when we get to the lake area in the park. The lights fall on the water and the while the sun is setting - it is absolutely divine.
Comment: October 29, 2008 10:33 AM - said...
How about seeing the dress reheasal for a play or musical? Many times the tickets are much less expensive for these events. Or go see a free outdoor concert. The city I live in has a jazz/big band night every week that is free to the public. Take advantage of free museum or zoo days, or go during times when they have special exhibits. Go to the local Farmers Market and pick out ingredients for dinner together. Use the entertainment section of your local paper as a resource. It just takes a little research adn imagination.
Comment: October 29, 2008 10:57 AM - said...
my boyfriend and i both enjoy being outside, but are not true "hikers". we invested in a digital camera and we love just walking around state parks. most of our parks are free, and the camera has paid for itself in less than a year. plus. better cameras are becoming less expensive, and it's a good way to get some exercise in while enjoying each other's company.
Comment: November 16, 2008 2:47 AM - said...
Most colleges have concerts of classical, jazz, and other kinds of music for free (if by students) or for low cost (if a special musician).
Comment: November 19, 2008 10:10 AM - said...
Indoor rock climbing, ice skating, walking on beach, or a short hike, checking out the town and browsing in shops, tennis at public courts. All are dates I've been on and all were great for talking, laughing, spending time getting to know one another for who we are and not focusing on how much cash is gonna be dropped on the night-which is really what dating's all about, right?!
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