FRUGAL DATING

Bridget C. Williams

The point of going on frugal dates isn’t just to “go out and do stuff,” but to make sure you keep the activities not only frugal, but fun and special.

In general, the more you can focus on having fun with this fabulous person with whom you’re going on tons of awesome dates and the less you can think about all of the things you might miss if you don’t spend a lot of money, the better. Having fun is not about spending money. If you’re going out with someone, and you’re happy,

Honestly, it doesn’t matter what you spend as long as you make it a focus on connection and making the ordinary moments into memorable ones.

1. Don’t be afraid to use coupons or groupons

2. Make frugal decisions – lots of tips in the book

3. Use a budget when planning outings

4. Look at free alternatives or inexpensive alternatives

• Go for a picnic

• Grab a blanket and watch a meteor shower

• Check out local movies or concerts in the park

• Go hiking in a new place, bring a camera

• Take a lunch date at work (even if it means going out of your way)

• Drive to find the best spot to watch the sunset together

• Go for a walk to try all the best ice cream spots within walking distance

• Go bowling on a weeknight

  

If your date is a spender rather than a saver, it’s not only going to cost you more money now, but in the future. In this day of equality it is still customary for men to pay for the majority of the first couple of dates, even if the woman offers to pay something like the tip at dinner or for the popcorn at the movie.   It’s a challenge to find ways to save money dating while having a good time.

Both men and women have to be sensitive to each other’s financial picture and willingness to spend money for dating, especially before mutual interest is expressed.