Dating on a Budget

January 18, 2009

Romance on a budget? Try a picnic.

It’s tough for the average man to say the words “date” and “budget” in the same sentence. But  hard economic times require that he get a little creative and think outside the box. With a little forethought, any guy can come up with a list of things that are both fun romantic, but won’t empty his wallet—and make memories that are priceless, to boot.

What most men don’t always realize is that all their dates are really looking for is attention and affection. A great restaurant and a lobster tail dinner is cold comfort in the company of a disinterested or self-absorbed guy.

On the other hand pad Thai or dim sum can be the stuff of memories when in the company of an attentive, supportive, and romantic man.

You see, it’s not what’s on the menu or the Zagat rating in the front window that really counts to most women. It’s a guy who cares to spend the evening making her feel special, and better yet, adored. With that in mind, here are four great dates that don’t cost an arm and a leg, especially if they come from the heart.

1. Golden Vistas

If you’re near a spot where you can drive to a beautiful sunset, high up on a hill, far out on a beach, or simply at the end of a quiet road, start a date by going to watch a sundown and talk about the future. There’s hardly any date in the world more romantic than that.

2. Be Kids Again

Go to the zoo, ride a carousel, go ice-skating, Take a couple of risks and share a little excitement and a few laughs. It’s a bonding experience, and that’s the stuff true love is built upon.

3. Dance The Night Away

Get moving and go to a dance club. Obviously the cost differs depending on the club and the city you are in, but compared to the prices you can encounter doing a high-end restaurant, you can dance the night away and have a lot of laughs on the cheap.

4. Nature is the Real Aphrodisiac

Some couples enjoy nature together all the time, while others hardly ever explore the great outdoors together. Don’t cheat yourself of the restorative value of a walk in the woods, or a picnic on the beach. Bottom line: Get out there and breathe the fresh air of life into your relationship!

A big show, and a fancy restaurant of course are great. But never forget that truly memorable dates are the ones that men plan from the heart. Men: if you find yourself in the company of a woman for whom romance springs from a wallet, you’re with the wrong person. True love springs from the soul. It’s not something you have to put on plastic. Lead with your heart and the care you show will be worth its weight in gold.

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Tick tock...tick tock...

MVL Valentine’s Day Countdown Tip #8:

Love, in Small Packages

If you truly want to make an impression with your beloved, don’t shoot for just one big item that may be hit or miss. Instead, consider the little things that will mean even more. A photo of the two of you, in a beautiful frame. A love letter sprayed with a favored perfume. Matching scarves, or shirts. A charm on a string that has meaning to you both. Wrap 4 or 5 of these individually, then hand them over throughout the evening. Each gift will be a surprise. Each surprise will honor a memory.

Posted in Dating