Tips for Dating on a Budget

Just because your funds are limited doesn’t mean you can’t have an enjoyable and successful run in the dating scene. As the economy struggles, it doesn’t mean your love life should follow. A little creativity can go a long way, resulting in affordable but romantically memorable occasions year round.

Whether you’ve just begun dating someone new, or are continuing to woo a long-time love, following a few tips for dating on a budget can be the difference between disaster and a lasting relationship.

Some of the worst monetary siphons in the dating scene are dinner, movies and alcoholic beverages. Having a successful date does not mean you have to go to a fancy restaurant, a large cinema and then head over to the local pub. Then again, you don’t want to cook at home and watch a DVD from the nearest rental shop on a regular basis. This can be a romantic evening on occasion, but should not be a weekly affair.

Instead, try visiting the grocery store and picking up prepared food from the deli, or grab a few things to make yourself at home. Grab a nice, but reasonably priced bottle of wine (ask the wine store owner for a recommendation if you need too!), and plan a sunset picnic in the park or by the beach.

If the weather isn’t so pleasant, or you’re determined to hit a restaurant, you can find a moderately priced dining location by simply doing a little research. Ask your friends, family or even look online. Family run businesses like diners or small Italian food restaurants are usually very well priced and quite savory, and word of mouth is the most reliable way to find them.

Eating at home doesn’t have to be a boring experience, either. Spice things up by preparing dinner together. Cooking together can be a terrifically enjoyable and bonding experience. Don’t treat the meal like a typical home dinner. Set the table as if you were in a quiet, romantic restaurant, lighting candles and even wrapping the silverware in napkins if you wish. Again, a moderately priced bottle of wine will top the evening off just fine!

Another option would be to visit a local coffee house. This is an especially great idea if this is one of your first dates as it allows you to talk and continue to get to know your date. Instead of diminishing your wallet on a full meal, spend a few hours sipping coffee and having a nice dessert. A few cups of coffee aren’t going to break you, and the desserts at coffee houses are always exquisite.

If you know of a nice wine bar that could be a good possibility provided you won’t be both guzzling down the drinks. Sipping a nice glass of wine and spending time with someone you want to get to know better can be a very romantic experience.

These creative tips for dating on a budget are an excellent way to save cash and advance your love life at the same time. If you’re having trouble coming up with new ideas, go online and seek out interesting hang-outs and inexpensive eateries in your area. Maybe there’s a free concert or play in a local park that you both might enjoy. You might be surprised what can find.