Let’s face facts. The dating scene can be pretty brutal on the wallet. But if you don’t show the lady (or gentleman) a good time, you probably wont get another date. Luckily, fun doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of great things you can do on a date that are relatively cheap or free. If you are willing to think outside of the box and be a little unorthodox, you can show your date a good time that he or she will remember. We’ve got some great ideas to get you started.
- Poetry and Love Notes – Girls (and guys, though we’d never admit it) are suckers for romantic gestures in writing. Spend some time putting your thoughts and feelings into creative language and your sure to stay on her mind.
- Cook Dinner – I am surprised at how few people cook for their dates anymore. It’s so much cooler than going to your local Olive Garden, and your ability to cook won’t go unnoticed, even if it’s a recipe out of your Better Homes Cook Book (my favorite cookbook in the world). And if you can’t follow simple steps, like from a recipe, you might not be ready for dating at all…
- Romantic Massage – nothing says romance like the ability to give a good massage. You don’t have to be a pro to look like one. You just need a little knowledge and the right equipment. Get started with this Lovers Massage book and some quality massage oil, like these.
- Picnic – Anyone who’s ever been on a picnic before knows how fun and romantic it can be. Simple things like pb&j sandwiches, fresh fruit, cheese, and wine or good ole fancy grape juice will make you seem like a picnic-master, and you can bet he or she will remember your date.
- Chocolate – Because everyone loves chocolate, and the fact that you thought enough to pick some up before your romantic rendezvous shows how much you think about him or her.
- Fondue Date – Fondue pots are cheap, but a fondue party is super fun. Whether you’re preparing a whole dinner or just a chocolate dessert, you’ll definitely make an impression with a fondue date. Here is the fondue pot that I use, and while it’s not the most expensive, it definitely gets the job done.
- Take a Stroll – do people even do this anymore? My fiance and I have the best time when we just go somewhere and walk and talk. It’s probably my favorite thing to do with her. You can learn so much about someone on a walk, and you’ll feel that instant connection you get when you share things with each other.
- Hold Hands – all the time. Your friends might make fun of you, but they are just jealous!
- Movie Night – no this isn’t a trip to the cinema, it’s a good ole fashion movie night at home. Snuggle up on the couch, pop some pop corn, grab a blanket and throw in a romance, or even a romantic comedy. This makes for a great date on a dime.
- Photo Album Fun – another fun activity is to go through old photo albums together. Laugh at yourself and each other’s kiddy pictures, and get to know each other a little better.
- Take Out Night – for the kitchen impaired, a good take out dish served on real dishes is a simple replacement for getting in the kitchen and making a meal yourself. And with the proper presentation, she won’t even have to know it came from outside (not that we advocate lying…).
- Movie Makeout Session – I know, we aren’t in junior high anymore, but these things still work. Spend some time with your lady or fella at a movie, but don’t watch the movie. Indulge in a little kissy time instead.
- Fresh Fruit, Cream, and Chocolate Syrup – Hopefully this needs no explanation…
- Steal a Kiss – it’s much different than kissing her. When she isn’t paying attention, take her into your arms and steal a quick one. Then go about your business as if it never happened. It will drive her wild.
- Share Secrets – There is nothing that instantly bonds two people like a good secret. Share one with him, or make one with him! The excitement of being the only two people who know it forms an instant bond.
- Picture Messages – When you are apart, and even when you aren’t, a good picture message let’s her know you are thinking of her. This can get really exciting, depending on the subject of your picture. Just remember that she may not be the only person who sees it…
- Perfect “First ” Date – get a haircut, shave, wear cologne, iron your clothes, wash your car, clean the inside, pick up flowers and chocolate, walk to her door to pick her up, and have a special night planned for her. Do all the preparation you should have done (or did do) on your first date together, and make it really special.
See? There are so many ways to be romantic without spending a fortune. We’ve just gotten so lazy that “dinner and a movie” or “drinks at the bar” have become our routine. Spice it up a bit, get creative, make him or her remember why he picked you in the first place. Create that special date that she’ll brag about for years.
What’s your favorite budget date? Leave a comment below and help us really wow her!
