The Art of the Cheap Dating

The Art of the Cheap Date
A big date with the girl that you’ve been eyeing for a while!!! So, is your first stop the ATM machine or the nearest boutique stocking your favorite brands that claims to make you irresistible? Well, I think your starting off on a wrong note. Most men think that a date would equate to “loads of cash”. If you are one of those…then just sit back and read on while I tell you that a cheap date can go a long way in making a lasting impression.

Firstly, what are you trying to do when you go out with a woman? Have a great time…a few laughs… magical moments which would go a long way in building your relationship!

Linda, a 25 year old says, “Oh yes, it has its advantages – but, a candlelit dinner in a small tucked away place speaks volumes. Adding a special touch is what spells as a special date.

Having money as a chaperone is not my scene.” Meghana opines, “Gone are the days when a wallet filled with credit cards would make an impression. These days, we carry the same amount of credit cards or more…”
And this opinion is shared by most women. No doubt, an expensive date would be great, but if you don’t have the bucks, you can still make it work. If you’re witty, charming, creative, a good listener – you have a potent combination which would beat all big bucks.

Plan ahead because a successful date requires the right amount of planning. Show your date that you can fashion an evening to remember with whatever’s at hand. Do a little research on the internet. Find out how celebs have done something romantic and if it suits your budget, go for it.

Romance your way thru the evening. Indrani, 26 year old PR executive says, “ I would much rather stroll all evening on the beach, watch the sunset with a man who has made me laugh, than have dinner at an expensive restaurant with a guy who might be trying just a little hard to impress me.” The art of romance is not mere lines. It goes a notch up than that. Its looking into her eyes…not saying anything, but yet, speaking so much. It is making her feel like she is the only person in the room at that moment…nothing else exists for you than her presence.

Flowers – A dozen red roses, I admit, definitely makes a great impression. But, a hand picked bouquet of wild flowers or just a single rose or an orchid attached with a beautiful poem would guarantee a great evening. Women roll their eyes when it come to lines…but give them lines in a poem and they will buy that. Or you could walk down any of the lifestyle shops and pick up a bunch of silk flowers or beaded flowers which are a rage. Add an aromatic candle and start your evening on a romantic note.

Now comes the dinner bit. Five star restaurants are not in your budget. Fret not, but however, mention in a casual manner, that it’s going to be a casual evening, so that she dresses up accordingly. It’s embarrassing for a woman to get all dolled up to later find out that it’s a date at MacDonald’s. Surprise her by doing some exotic cooking even if it means that you have to do a bit of homework in the kitchen. Pack a picnic hamper and fill it with exotic goodies - cream crackers, cheese, strawberries, grapes, blueberries, jams, croissants etc...Don’t forget to pack sinfully rich desserts. Head out to the beach or the nearest woods around your block.

A bottle of wine at the end of the meal would go a long way in completing the evening. And in case, you play a guitar or a violin, take it along with you. It would add up your brownie points with your date. Try to avoid the food courts that are mushrooming in the mall. It’s ok to grab a bite after a movie, but if it’s a special first date, romance your way with a little bit of creativity woven around the food.

Movie or play – you’re debating between the choices, then a play seems to be the choice. It’s more romantic. But, if there are no suitable plays, do not take her to the action movie or a horror flick that you’ve been meaning to catch up on. Step back into time and watch a classic if it’s running in a nearby theatre. If movies and plays are not your scene, then walk down quaint art galleries or go to a poetry or book reading that’s scheduled for the day. These places usually have the right kind of people and it’s an inexpensive way to impress your date.

Dancing – a great way to show your date a lovely time. But, check with her if she actually likes dancing. And, if she does, then let her know that dancing’s on the agenda. Do it differently. Go for a long drive. Slip a romantic number and let the tunes weave their magic around you and your date and dance in the secluded corner of your street under the moonlit sky.

The bottom line of a cheap date – do not make money the issue. Just stick to the fun and creativity and I guarantee you she would remember you more than she would remember the guy who flashed his credit card and bored her over an expensive dinner