People are searching for more innovative ways to enjoy life during challenging economic times. In my last post, I wrote about vacationing on a budget and that post inspired me to continue with the "Budget" theme. Many people strongly dislike the "B-word" because it gives the impression of restraint and restriction but it doesn't have to be that way.
I was recently asked about giving tips for "Dating on a Budget" and I've pulled a list of potential date ideas for the economically conscious dater.
1. Coffee isn't Only for Mornings
Coffee can be a great way to spend time with a new love interest without breaking the bank. Many gourmet coffee shops offer specialty drinks for and treats for you to enjoy. For an average of $5 per drink, you can spend your time chatting and not your money while sipping your fancy beverage.
2. A Tisket, A Tasket, a Picnic in a Basket
One of the many great things about the Washington, DC area is the public parks. One thing that goes perfectly with a park is a picnic. The keys to a successful picnic outing are the food, beverages, and ambiance.
Food: Find out what your date's
culinary preferences and dietary restrictions are. You wouldn't want
to make a ham sandwich for a vegetarian. Make little tea sandwiches
and cut into triangles for manageable bites. The best way to store
them would be in tupperware or it's equivalent. Also consider
bringing romantic fruit like strawberries, raspberries or grapes.
These fruits are bite sized morsels and don't require utensils.
Along with fruit, bring cheeses, crackers or a sample of your date's
favorite foods as a surprise.
Beverages: Many parks prohibit the
consumption of alcohol, so check with the park in advance before
bringing your favorite alcoholic cocktail. Other alternatives, could
be a fruit punch, sparkling water or something special.
Ambiance: Like food or beverages, the ambiance is just as important. Make a list of 2-3 parks that are within driving distance. In the event that one of the parks are occupied by large groups or a loud event, you want to have the option to go elsewhere. In addition, ambiance also includes the basket, cups, utensils and napkins. If you can't find a basket to carry your picnic, use one of the environmentally conscious tote bags. You can also find matching napkins and plastic utensils at stores like Target for next to nothing.
3. Guess Who's Coming to Dinner
Dinner at home is a great way to show off your cooking skills and save money in the process. Just like with the picnic, find out your date's culinary preferences and dietary restrictions in advance. If you're not as comfortable in the kitchen, consider cooking simple meals. There are many websites that offer free recipes for home cooked meals. I would also suggest making that particular dish in advance to ensure the result is as intended. Last thing you want to do is cook dinner at home and have the food taste so bad that you have to go out to eat!
4. After Hard Work Comes Your Just Desserts
Dessert can be a nice way to show your date a good time but at a reasonable price. Dessert only shops are popping up in the area and the cupcake craze has continued to fuel interest in sweet delicacies. For approximately $10, you an take your date to one of the many great cupcake places for a cupcake and a cup of coffee.
There are so many options to choose
from when going on a date. It doesn't have to always cost you an "arm
and a leg".
As always, please feel free to email me
with questions or comments!
Ebong
