Summertime is upon us and with it comes a multitude of activities for busy families. Children’s sports are in full swing, yards and gardens need to be tended to, and there is always the possibility of travel or visits from friends and family.
Summer is a whirlwind for many, which can take a bit out of free time and extra money. This can prove to be a complication for couples who might be struggling to find the time and the resources to spend even a few minutes together alone.
Many studies show the importance of alone time for couples of all ages. It helps to strengthen the bond, reduce stress, and give a much needed change of scenery. However, when money is tight date night may seem like more hassle than it’s worth. But it is very worthwhile to spend time with your partner.
If you’d love to treat your spouse or significant other to an evening out but you’ve got to watch your finances, these are some great ideas for date night that won’t break the bank.
Take on a DIY Project
If your first inclination is to look at a DIY project as work, then you should stop right now! Under the right circumstances and with the right person, taking on a creative project is a fun way to engage with your partner and harness the power of teamwork.
Scour your local flea markets and yard sales for a worthy piece of furniture or other item for your home. Secure a babysitter for your children and go shopping together for the supplies. Perhaps one of you is artistic and the other is a whiz with power tools. Work together to make your thrifty find a one-of-a-kind piece for your space. You’ll be surprised at how much fun you’ll have for very little money.
Plan a Movie Night
While a night out at the movies might seem mundane to some, to couples who have very little free time it can be the best date idea in the world. Especially as the little ones will be with a sitter and the lucky parents could see something that is not animated or that might be too intense for the little ones.
Visit coupon websites that offer discounts on movie tickets to bring the cost down even further. If you can, cook a meal before you go out so you’re not tempted to spend extra money on sugary snacks or butter laden popcorn. You could even plan a pre- or post-movie stroll around the area to extend your precious alone time that much further.
Go on a Picnic
Summer is the perfect time to be outside, and what better way to laze away an afternoon with your date than on a picnic? Picnics are charming, fun, and romantic, and are a very intimate way to share a meal and some time.
Picnics also don’t have to cost a lot of money. You can go with simple sandwiches and fruit, or you could try a take on a charcuterie and pick up some cheese, cured meats, and olives and serve that with a loaf of French bread. Be sure to pick a lovely spot in a nearby park, pack your basket, a blanket, and a bottle of wine and prepare to while the afternoon away with the one you love.
Be a Volunteer for a Day
Working together for a common good or to help those less fortunate is a great way to bring you closer to your partner and for both of you to better appreciate what you have. Organizations in cities all over the country could use a helping hand, and the experience is not likely to cost a cent.
Contact your local animal shelter about an afternoon of dog walking or playing with and socializing the kittens. Volunteer to help deliver meals to community members that are housebound. Call a nursing home and inquire if they permit non-family visitors. If they do, visit with an elderly person for the afternoon. The opportunities are endless and are sure to bring you a great deal of joy.
For couples on a budget summer doesn’t always have to be about scrimping and saving. Consider some of these ideas for an inexpensive date night and perhaps you’ll have a summer romance all over again.
Read More:
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1 comment
nice article about cute date ideas