It’s not unusual to want to impress a significant other on a date. If they’re the one you have your heart set on, and you can really see yourself having a future with them, why wouldn’t you want to impress?
However, the means don’t always match the intention, and that surprise holiday in the Bahamas isn’t an option for most of us. Let’s face it: if the spare funds just aren’t there–if you’re a student, for example, or there’s an employment issue–then even a visit to a plush restaurant can be a stretch.
# Eating outWell, obviously I don’t mean taking the object of your affections out for some posh nosh. That would cost way too much–and if it didn’t cost way too much, you clearly haven’t done enough to impress.
When I say eat out, I’m talking about the great outdoors. What more romantic way is there to show your SO how much they mean to you than by organizing a picnic somewhere scenic and memorable? And it only costs as much as you need to spend. It’s the situation that counts, after all. Not whether you’ve packed Beluga Caviar and Bollinger or not.
# A day in the parkOkay, a day in the park could potentially be romantic, although it might be considered a little ordinary, to say the least. But I’m not actually talking about that kind of park. I’m talking about a ballpark or some other kind of sports stadium–specifically the amateur kind.
That way, if the person you’re trying to impress has a penchant for a particular sport, you get to tick all the right boxes without spending a penny. A win-win situation if ever there’s been one.
# Home comfortsIf a meal at a restaurant is outside of your budget, then why not show off your culinary skills and invite them to a homemade meal at your place? Impress them with your best-practiced recipes, and create an ambiance that even a high-end joint would struggle to compete with.
Of course, this might not be the ideal choice for a first date and could seem a little forward. However, for a date a little further down the line, one that you wish to progress to a more physical plane, this particular thrifty offering could be the perfect ice breaker.
# Boot upIf your significant other is the kind of person who loves the great outdoors and all that nature has to offer, why not boot up and invite them on a romantic hike somewhere? Not only does the physical activity take the onus off the constant need to impress and relax the conversation, but it potentially gets you out in perfect solitude.
Just the two of you tramping together through an area of outstanding natural beauty… what could be more romantic? And at the cost of practically nothing!
# A cultural affairNot everyone’s kettle of fish, but how about taking your significant other to a cultural event of some kind? It could be a gallery, a museum, or a one-off affair being used in your locale to promote something.
It’s quiet, promotes good conversation, and there’s a good chance it won’t cost you a penny. Even if you just have to pay a nominal entry fee, it’s unlikely to cost much, and you could potentially stay all day. Now that’s a romantic bargain and a half!