Dating on a Budget: Simple First Dates
I went way back in my memory bank to my very first- first date. W
e went to CiCi’s Pizza. Back then the buffet was $2.99, add a drink and you still didn’t pass $5.00 per person. We played video games, watched television on the big screen, and laughed at the kids running amuck.
I was in college so anything was better than cafeteria food. But it was fun, the conversation was good, and that date was dirt cheap. There was no pretense. There were no $200 bottles of wine around to tempt anyone. As a matter of fact, I don’t even think I was of legal drinking age yet. But think about it, this was the perfect date, money wise, because it was cost controlled. Unless we went crazy in the arcade, the date budget could easily remain under $20.
The key to cost controlled dates is frequenting businesses that have a low set price to begin with. You pay your bill and then enjoy yourself. Theoretically you could purchase more than the average consumer, but then you wouldn’t be dating on a budget, would you?
Now there are a few tried and true cost controlled dates:
Movies. You enjoy a new or not so new release on the big screen. It could be a matinee, a discount movie theatre, or you could venture to one of the newer movie vending machines and enjoy a flick at home.
Bowling. Talk smack while wiggling your booty in the lane. It’s a funny picture especially if you get a gutter ball. Plus, a lot of bowling alleys offer karaoke, pool, and a great 2 for 1 special.
Drinks. Whether it is coffee, tea, or alcohol drinks, these are relatively cheap. Just beware of those free comedy clubs with a 2 drink minimum, and a cherry soda costs $7. You know who you are!
If you want to change it up a little try these:
Wine Tasting. They’re practically everywhere, whether at a wine bar, wine store or the local vineyard. Taste a selection of wines for free or low cost and usually you can walk away with a souvenir glass in hand.
Walking Tour. This may cost you around $20 per person, but you do get to learn more about the city and it could be entertaining. Try a ghost tour for sure if you want to get that love interest in your arms.
A Day in the Park. Check your local listings for concerts and movies in the park. These great events are typically free and all you need to bring is a blanket. Grab light fare from home or the deli and enjoy.
Photo credits: Stock.xchng
Love these!
Another cheap date: you and your love interest could hit the Costco and people watch, then enjoy a hot dog and Coke for $1.50 per person. If you really want to splurge, throw in a churro for another buck.
Serena! Now you know that ain’t right! Not on a FIRST date! What?! If my date did that I would say this is some BULL!! What kind of first impression will you be making with this kind of first date? I wouldn’t even do that to someone that I was dating unless I asked the person to tagalong on a project I was working on for Sociology or Psych class. We need to do better.
Tamara, I’m pretty sure CiCi’s pizza has only gone up to 3.99 now, so still a great option! I’ve never been there, but the price in the ads have stuck with me, lol.
Great ideas!
Tamara: In my dating days, I was always big on having her come over for dinner. Cooking dinner and a nice bottle of wine is less expensive at home than in a restaurant… dessert always seemed to be free there too!
Don’t forget community type events- like festivals or street fairs. Costs are free, plus whatever food is bought from street vendors.
I always wanted to try wine tasting. I never knew it could actually be cheap.
Serena: I love the pizza at Sam’s Club, but since they got a bad rating from HRC…I am steering clear.
Lissette: I can understand your feelings. What are some of your favorite first dates?
Sip: Hi there! Yes, Cici’s hasn’t gone up in price very much. LOL. I still love it.
Nina: Lately, I have been cooking a lot lately and it is definitely cheaper than going out. Plus you can be rest assured that the dishes are clean and no one put more than the stated ingredients in your food.
DivaJean: I love all types of community events.
Glennisha: Yes! Wine tastings are really cheap. There is one store called Wine Styles, you can taste all the wines for free. They get you by putting the price for one glass at $8.00. I hope you try it and let us know how it goes.