Let’s pretend you met someone great while out shopping. You exchanged numbers and agreed on a date for Friday. The plan involves drinks and appetizers to start, the a pop-up art exhibit downtown. You’re excited, but you start mentally tallying the costs. Between the restaurant prices, exhibit tickets, and parking fees, you predict an expensive night out.
You probably didn’t meet them at the store — more likely online — but the setup sounds familiar. You both get along well, so what do you do? The challenge becomes clear: figure out how to go on dates while still achieving your financial goals.
Plan Creative, Affordable Dates
You shouldn’t stop dating because of money. The best dates happen because you enjoy someone’s company. Memorable dates may involve biking in the park, dinner at home, or a drive-in movie. Although cheaper or free date options often require more commitment and planning, you must sacrifice somewhere. A few creative adjustments can save hundreds of dollars each month. When you meet the right person, effort matters most.
How to Split the Bill
Dinner at home gets boring. I get it. Dinner at a restaurant means food variety, great music, and a unique atmosphere. Instead of avoiding restaurants, learn to space them out. More importantly, learn to share the bill.
Let’s walk through a scenario:
You don’t remember the last time you meshed so well with someone. Conversation flows as you both share funny pet stories and your embarrassing travel mistakes. Then your desserts arrive and they look incredible. With both your plates clean, the waiter walks by and asks, “Together or separate?” You and your date exchange quick glances as the waiter expects an answer.
So, what do you do? It depends.
For the first few dates, especially if I organized them, I paid. I always felt it showed my interest. There’s no rule here, so make your own.
However, for almost every other occasion, you should split the bill or take turns. Don’t itemize your orders either. When you share or split the bill, it puts equal financial obligation on each person. If your date is upset with splitting the bill, you are better off finding someone who appreciates you, not your wallet.
Your financial goals are important. If things go well with your new potential partner, find an opportunity to discuss money.
Talking About Money in Relationships
Money influences many of our decisions throughout our day. What we eat, how we travel, even our hobbies, depends on the money we spend. Once your new relationship progresses with your partner, find an opportunity to discuss money. Outline your saving goals or plans to tackle outstanding debts.
Dating and saving can happen in parallel. Some people feel guilty about dating with debt or feel like they can’t afford the costs. Whether you plan creative dates or split the bill, money shouldn’t stop you from meeting new people. And when things get serious, discuss finances and motivate one another to achieve your goals.
On your next date, try something new and avoid a restaurant. Plan a picnic with your favourite foods or sign up for skating lessons. The time you spend together matters more than the money you spend.
Money Method Tip: Dating should enhance your life, not derail your finances. Plan intentionally, talk openly, and spend with purpose.
