Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Cheap Dates for Classy Mates

 




With Valentine's Day approaching, many of us are starting to rack our brains for ideas. Honestly, I sort of dread Valentine's Day, because I don't like feeling socially obligated to buy chocolate to express my love to my significant other! 

Every year it seems to get harder to come up with something original that doesn't break the bank. And, when your trying to save (like me!) that's important. If you are in a similar position and need some ideas to get you moving, here are some suggestions for dates that are both romantic and budget-friendly.  

Picnic 
Go to a nearby park. Bring a blanket, some beverages, cheese and crackers, pasta salad, potato salad, or something of that sort and sandwiches. Also, remember the silverware and napkins! 

You can really make this as simple or fancy as you want. You can dress-it-up with some flowers and candles, etc. My husband and I are frequent picnicers and I'm always surprised how something so simple can be so fun.

Recipe Ideas: DirtyGourmet.com

Indoor Picnic
If the weather is bad, why not take the picnic indoors? Set-up your picnic blanket on the floor instead, and you still get the romance without the wind and mosquitoes! 

The Theater
While there's nothing like a Broadway show, there are many local theater companies and community theaters that put on great shows at a fraction of the cost. Going to the theater is also a nice change of pace from going to the movies.

Movie Theater Experience at Home
Instead of going out to a movie, make some buttery popcorn and have some candy, curled-up on your own couch with your honey at your side.

Camping
Camping can make for a romantic and affordable escape for you and your partner--at least once you've made the initial investment for a tent and a few other essentials.

Source: MusicFestivalJunkies.com
What you need:
-Tent
-Lighter/matches
-Lantern/flashlight
-Sleeping bag/blankets
-Pillows 
-Food and drinks

Recommended:
-Sleeping pad/mattress
-Cooler 
-Sandwich cooker (these are the bomb!)
-Skewers

If you're really ambitious try Glamping, glamorous camping.

Glamping Info and Destinations: http://glampinghub.com/

If you have some good "cheap dates for classy mates" ideas I haven't mentioned here, feel free to write in the comments!