Dating on a Shoestring

As long as your heart is made of gold, your pocketbook doesn’t have to be. Here are some fun date ideas for anyone watching their spending.

Movie Marathon

With the right snacks and comfy seating, a movie marathon can be a splendid way to get to know someone. Alternate between personal favourites to get a sense of your date’s taste and show off your own. Suitable for any season, the Movie Marathon can be enhanced with cocoa and holiday classics, or candy corn and slasher flicks.

Picnic

Weather permitting; a picnic can be far more romantic than a five-course meal from an overpriced menu. Wine and a sunset view invoke timeless romance, but don’t fret if you get rained out. You can always put on an indoor picnic with a big blanket and lots of glowing candles.

Free Museum Days

Most museums offer discount or free admission on special days and great art can be the perfect inspiration for great love. Also look out for gallery openings and artist’s receptions that are frequently free (and that includes champagne)!

Cooking Together

Even if you’re not a whiz in the kitchen, cooking a meal together can be a wonderful way to bond. Ask your date to bring a favourite recipe to share and offer to whip up a dessert you know you can handle. Blend sincere compliments with an easygoing attitude to yield a good glimpse of domestic bliss.

Potlucks with Friends and Family

If you’ve already been out on a few successful dates, consider attending or hosting a potluck with some friends or family. Introducing your date to the special people in your life will prove that you’re serious about the relationship and give you the chance to see how everyone gets on together.

Cheap Seats

Theatres often provide free tickets to anyone willing to show up an hour or two early to usher. Whilst unpaid labour may not seem romantic, it can be fun if your companion is an arts supporter who loves to volunteer. You can also get tickets for next-to-nothing by attending closing matinee or weekday showings.

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