by M. A. Gallant

Created on: August 27, 2010

Tough economic times can make dating hard. Going to see a movie can cost $50. Enjoying a nice meal can be another $50. Before you know it, you have spent the rent just trying to show your date a good time. There are things that you can do which won’t cost a lot. You might even find that you have a great time while being thrifty.

Seeing a movie might be a classic date, but you can’t talk during the show so there is little chance to find out if you are compatible. Instead, treat your date to a moon light walk and picnic. A nice park can be the perfect setting for a romantic date. This gives you the opportunity to get to know a new friend.  A picnic dinner is casual and inexpensive. If things go well, you can even suggest a trip to the ice cream shop on the way home.  

Plan a game night with another couple. Cook dinner at home with your best pals and play games. You get the chance to impress your date with your cooking skills. Everyone will have a good time helping with dinner, and later you can play video games or board games. This will give your best friend a chance to get to know your date. The night is sure to be full of laughs.

If staying in suits you, then you can also plan a dinner and movie night at home. Again, dinner won’t cost nearly as much as going to a restaurant, and renting a movie is far less expensive than going to the theater. You can spice things up after the movie by pampering your date with a nice massage, which with any luck, is sure to lead to romance.

If you are ready for your date to meet your parents, then a night spent with Mom and Dad can be a great cheap date. Your parents are sure to provide dinner, so that is an expense you won’t have to worry about. Your mom can be counted on to show off your baby pictures. This might be embarrassing for you, but your date will love it! Leave early and stop for coffee on the way home.

If you like sports you can save money and have a great time by taking your date to a high school football game. The admission price is low.  Hot dogs and fries can fit into almost any budget. The chilly fall temperature is sure to have your date snuggled up to you by the second quarter.

You can date on a shoe string budget. It just takes a little creativity with low cost in mind. After all, you really just want to spend time with your date and have a few laughs. These key ingredients are free.

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