#1 - If you think it's ok to entertain at home on the first date... yes you're cheap! Don't start with the whole, I feel more comfortable at home. Or the best one.. I don't like crowds! Ummm... I don't like crowds either, that doesn't mean we have to be restricted to the confines of your house! I'm not going to lie, during my "young & dumb" days, I settled for the date at his apartment. Now that I am a little bit wiser, I am very much aware of the reasons why he bought me to this house. It was literally...easy access to him. She's here...it's cheaper...she's going to get some drinks...we're going to sit on the couch and watch a movie...and one thing leads to the other! STOP! If we've been dating for a while, yes..of course..a dinner & a movie in the house is fine! However, if we're getting to know each other, staying at home is not the way.
Women, let's be real. We know from DAY ONE if a guy is... "sleep-able." You drew an image in your mind of the both of you an intimate way. 9 times out of 10, you guys don't get to that point...because of course...he says and/or does something stupid! Don't you just hate that?
Then you're back to square one!
But where was I?? Oh yes, being cheap! If you are one of the cheap ones out there, then here are a dating tips (via AskMen.com):
Cafes are great for first dates as they're casual and you'll likely only be footing the bill for a couple of lattes and biscotti
. Unlike a bar, where one drink can easily escalate into many if things are going well, a coffee date will likely never evolve beyond a single refill. If you can, choose a cafe that is part of a bookstore. The added benefit here is you can position yourself as literati.
Estimated cost: $5-$10. Price may vary depending upon the number of refills and inclusion of biscotti
or savories.If you're really hard up, this may be your best bet. Granted, this is only a viable option if you live within close vicinity to a hiking trail. Hiking gives you an excellent opportunity to show off your rugged masculinity. Catch a wild rabbit with your bare hands and barbecue it for your soon-to-be betrothed while trekking through the backcountry
.Estimated cost: $5-$10. You'll want to bring along some water, fruit and other snacks.Most art galleries have one day of the week where entry is discounted (if not free). Take advantage of this opportunity to take your date out for some quality culture. Spend some time reading up on the current exhibits prior to your date. This way, you can at least maintain the faade
that you have your finger on the pulse of the art world.Estimated cost: $0-$10. Ideally, this one is expense-free, but if you spring for a few postcards or a poster, the cost may go up a bit.If you don't live near a large body of water, a park will do here. The key is to find a locale that has scenic (preferably awe-inspiring) vistas. If a lengthy drive is required to reach your final destination, all the better. It will provide ample opportunity for you to connect with your date along the way. Only a few simple items are required to make your picnic basket impress: a halfway decent bottle of wine, some brie, bread, and fresh fruit. It's simple (and cheap), but it works.Estimated cost: $15-$40. The price varies according to how extravagant and decadent you want to be here. Deli sandwiches, chips and water will likely only set you back 15 bucks. Brie, wine and fruit will increase your tab, but impress more.If you're a neophyte when it comes to wine tasting, you may want to watch Sideways prior so the words "piquant bouquet" roll off your tongue smoothly. For those living far from wine country, another option is a local brewery (which can be found just about anywhere). The alcohol acts as a social lubricant and is typically free (or heavily discounted). If you hit a brewery right around happy hour, you might even score free appetizers!Estimated cost: $0-$20. This assumes that the tasting evolves into knocking a few back and perhaps a small plate for the two of you to share.
