Dating on a Budget

First dates are like first impressions - you can't take it back. You should also know that where you take your date displays your personality. They don't expect you to take them somewhere you hate, after all. However, one of the biggest mistakes a lot of people make is that they overspend for dates and learn to regret it later. If you want to act like you make the big bucks to impress someone they are going to catch on eventually. There is only so far you can make that dollar stretch.

So, with that said, let's just say that it's the quality of the date that really matters. If you put some thought and effort into it then you don't have to worry about the cost as much. Your date will see how awesome you are, and you can still pay your rent or mortgage the next month.

Now, if you have been dating a while, then you know you can take your date to your apartment/house or bring something cool to do to theirs. But, if it's a first date I can pretty much guarantee that they won't want to go to your place. They really don't know you, and it would probably feel a bit awkward. Awkward is not a way to start your date.

So, let's be creative!

1. Most cities or towns have a "downtown" area that is rather trendy. In Wisconsin we have a lot of buildings that are rather cool looking too! So, why not make a first photo date? Most cell phones have a camera, but if yours doesn't then go pick up a cheap disposable camera at the corner store. Walgreens has a two pack for about ten bucks, but you could even get lucky and find them in a dollar store. Decide on what you want to take pictures of - like coolest places on the Ave or funkiest dressed people, or even most interesting decor or structures. You'll think of something.

This idea gives you time to talk too. And if you want dinner there are all kinds of places in a downtown that are reasonable. Gyros are a cheap and fun food. Depending on the time you start, though, your date doesn't have to include food at all. Just fun!

Plus, after the first date you can use the excuse of getting the film developed as a reason for a second date.

2.  There is also the idea of a picnic dinner at a park, but this can be trick in colder places and won't work in colder weather. Or will it? Suppose you pack a picnic that is travel safe. You have it in the car so that you can share it on the way to your destination. Make sure you make something small, non-messy, and edible. The edible part is very important. Of course, this kind of picnic you really want to forgo the wine. Even those airplane type bottles are a big no-no for driving. Play it safe and bring bottles of water or a drink you know your date is fond of.

So, where are you going? There are several ideas for destinations. You could go to a place you know with an open night mic. You could check out wine tastings in the area. Most of these run around $5 and some are even free. Plan this out ahead of time. All good dates take a bit of planning. It's all in the details. Check on the online calendar and see what's going on in your area. Most newspapers have an event calendar online, but don't just trust that... look around. Check out bulletin boards, online sites, or even see what kind of events you can find on Facebook. You might be surprised at your options.

3. Now here is an idea that is rather out of the box, but I think it could be lots of fun. Take your date shopping! I know, it's dating on a budget, just wait. Figure out how much money you are able to spend and divide it by two. Tell your date that you are going to shop for your date and then head to the dollar store. If you decided on $20 then give her $10 to spend. If you decided on $10 then give him $5 to spend. You get the idea.

Now, tell your date to go and buy something that they would like to use or do on your date. The dollar store even has food items! Tell them that you will take ten or twenty minutes to shop and you will meet them out front and compare your items. Then together you can create a fun and new way to use what the two of you bought together.

For instance, if your date bought a dollar movie then you can ask if they want to watch it at your place or theirs. If they bought a dog collar you can go to the animal shelter and donate it and take some time looking at the animals. If they bought a book, you could find a comfortable place to sit down and read it to one another. Or if they bought bird seed, go to the park for a walk and spread it out for the wildlife.

Your options are endless.

Hopefully this gives you some ideas where you realize you don't have to spend a fortune to have fun or to win over the heart of someone. You just have to be creative and be yourself. Life and love will be a lot less disappointing that way!