10 Cheap Date Nights

This post was written by Chelsea on July 31, 2009
Posted Under: Finance

drinksAhhhh… date night! It’s the end all, be all in our household. Nothing like a romantic reminder of how it all began and a refreshing way to keep the passion alive. And, with a little creativity in the finance department, you’ll see that all you need is love to make your time alone together great. Plus – tips to save on sitters!

10. Make it a Home Sweet Home First
Eat your meal before you head out, then leave for an after dinner drink or head to a pier or ski lodge for hot chocolate as you enjoy the view… and I am talking about the view of each other.

9. The Aperitif
Or do the reverse — after the kids are settled with a sitter, head to your backyard or balcony and enjoy a bottle of wine or other pre-dinner drinks. Then leave for dinner afterward and skip the alcohol to save big on your bill. Or bring your own bottle of vino to toast one another for half the cost.

8. An Active Pursuit
Go for a jog, head to the gym or hop on a bicycle built for two (or at least your two beach cruisers side by side). If you live near the water, jump in for a post exercise dip… preferably at sunset.

7. Early Lovebirds Save on the Worm
In other words, hit happy hour. Enjoy appetizers and drinks for a fraction of the cost. Also, look for restaurants that have specialty nights such as Taco Tuesday or 1/2 off wine night; Finally see THAT movie either during the matinee or check your favorite theater for a discount ticket night.

6. Dine Alfresco
Pack the picnic basket and head to the beach or state park. Enjoy the scenery while avoiding the scene.

5. You’ve Got Mail
Finally take advantage of all the coupons delivered to your door. Who knew the pesky inserts usually headed straight for the recycle bin could get you to venture out to try a restaurant you haven’t been to yet?

4. Dance Like There’s No Tomorrow
Enjoy free concerts in the park. Either eat at home or pack some food to fuel your boogie shoes.

3. Big Romance in Tiny Ways
When was the last time you miniature golfed? Head to it after dark or hit the big course for some laughs at the driving range.

2. Get Creative
Check the Chamber of Commerce for free events such as Art Walks. Revel in the culture without the currency.

1. Be Fresh
Casually stroll the local Farmer’s Market hand in hand while perusing fresh food at pocket book friendly prices.

breezy_deal1Breezy Tip: With so many romantic options at reasonable prices, what could possibly be holding you back? Ah, yes: The Sitter Situation. Here’s how to get around it:

1. First, check with relatives. Either entice them with the notion of solidifying their bond, or promise to have the kids in bed by their arrival so they are willing to return for the favor.

2. No family in the area? Find another couple to swap nights with. On your night, one spouse stays with your own kids and the other heads to your friend or neighbor’s house. Make it win-win by, again, arriving after the kids have been put to bed. Trade off nights from there.

3. Meet for lunch. For parents with kids in school, this is an easy work- around with just as many love-filled opportunities: the picnic, jog, etc.

Remember, happy spouses make happy parents so make that date. Enjoy!

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Reader Comments

These are such creative, fabulous ideas. And Date night is SOOOO important to keep the love going for couples! Bravo!
Cameron

#1 
Written By Conquer The Monkey on July 31st, 2009 @ 8:04 am

My husband and I have been married almost 15 years and date night is our saving grace! With three kids, we use most of these ideas in this article so we can save money. Todd and I love riding our beach cruisers, watch the sunset and then hit a few bars before going home! Date night is the key to reconnecting and really keeping our marriage strong! Great ideas and great article…thank you for more fun ideas…we will try them on our next date night!

#2 
Written By maya Drake on July 31st, 2009 @ 8:29 am

We do many of the ideas mentioned above. Swapping w/ friends to sit has worked so well, saved us moola, most importantly, has given us “peace of mind!”
Concerts in the park are really fun to do w/ other couples w/ children. It feels as if we had a night out even when our child is present. We just went to Fletcher’s Cove last night off of Lomas Santa Fe in Solana Beach. They have free concerts every Thurs. at 7:00.

#3 
Written By Alison on July 31st, 2009 @ 8:44 am

Restaraunt.com has great discounts at local restaurants.
Look on the internet for the coupon code, prior to purchase and save an add’l 20-80% off.

Ice Skating, Roller Skating, and Bowling is also a lot of fun and romantic!

YMCA’s have low fee child care for 3-12 year olds. Even if you are not a member. Palomar YMCA has the lowest fee $15 for all your children for four hours or $25 for non-members. Every Friday and Saturday nights.

#4 
Written By Brandy on July 31st, 2009 @ 4:25 pm

Thank you for the great ideas and feedback Mamas! Brandy, I look forward to checking out Restaurant.com!

#5 
Written By Chelsea on July 31st, 2009 @ 7:35 pm

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  1. Breezy Mama  on August 18th, 2009 @ 3:02 am
  2. Breezy Mama  on November 16th, 2009 @ 3:06 am

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