Romantic Dating

It's no secret that dating can be expensive, especially in the early stages of a relationship. Until you get to know your date a little better it's just easier to stick with the dinner and a movie format. It is safe and allows the two of you the opportunity to bond. But, dating in today's economy is not without it's challenges and if you have a limited budget you may need to be a little more creative.

Even though dating in today's economy may provide some challenges to you financially, assuming you are one of those people who have been adversely affected by today's economy, you can still make it work.

If you are trying to impress someone on a limited budget you still have some options. The best thing you can do is try go get to know your date as well as possible and tailor your dates to the things they like to do.

And of course, you must never forget that if someone isn't interested in you just because you can't take them out to a fancy restaurant or shower them with gifts, they probably aren't someone you would really want to spend a lot of time with anyway.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with liking nice things and the opportunity to go to nice places. But if someone isn't interested in you just because you can't do those things, that is not a good sign.

It doesn't speak well for them that they would judge you solely on your ability to spend a lot of money on them.

Believe it or not, you may have dodged a bullet on this one!

Other than that, you can get very creative. Try these things:

1. The best dates are always the ones where the two of you can spend time together doing things that you both enjoy and  creating memories and getting to know each other.

So, make that your focus. Try to find activities that you will both like. This is, of course, more challenging when you don't really know someone.

But you can always talk, or text, them and get to know them a little bit better before you go out. Pay attention to the things they talk about.

If you are paying attention you will most likely get a feel for the types of things they are interested in.

From that point on you should be able to find something creative to do on your dates.

2. Never underestimate the fun of just being together. No matter what the season, though I do think it is easier during spring and summer, there are always things the two of you can do.

Simple things like going for a walk, flying a kite, or star gazing can actually be very romantic if done right. And, the best part is that it won't cost you a thing.

There are also many things right in your own community that are free or low cost that may be fun. Go to your local chamber of commerce website, or "what's happening around town" section of your paper to find ideas of simple fun things you can do on your date.

Hey, I personally believe that money is not the root of all evil. Actually it is only a tool and can be an extremely helpful tool too. But if you are a little short of funds and you find dating in today's economy a challenge, just be willing to keep an open mind.