Romantic, Unique, Memorable Dates on a Budget

Whether it's a budding new relationship or a seasoned union, a memorable date night does not have to deplete your bank account. Here are some ways to spend some memory-making time with your handsome man or lovely lady, on a budget.

Budget Under $15

Romantic Early Evening

What you need:

A lantern (borrowed if you don't already own one)

A picnic basket

Finger foods

Bottle of sparkling water or cider

Nearby park or pedestrian area by a lake

Blanket

Mp3 with speakers for mood music

Scout a spot, lay down your blanket at dusk and lay out your fare, if you are coming up blank as far as a conversation starter, reminisce about how you felt when you met her.

Unique and Quirky

Rent his favorite movie and cook a dinner that ties into the theme.

What you need:

DVD rental

Ingredients for your tie in meal

Stuck on ideas? If he is a "Rush Hour" fan, how about some stir fry? Does he never tire of watching Russell Crowe in "Cinderella Man"? A Depression Era dinner similar to what was served in the movie, like Vegetable and Ham casserole, could just do the trick, or you can use any recipe you find on the Internet.

Budget Under $30

Romantic Early Evening

What you need:

A local high school Orchestra Violinist - Pay them $10 for 30-45 minutes of playing

A remote spot for dancing

A lake, river or ocean for your romantic stroll

A bottle of Champagne

Strawberries

Take a long romantic walk along the river ending at the designated spot. There your violinist will start playing while you enjoy your strawberries and champagne and dance to your hearts content.

Unique and Quirky

What you need:

A visit to your local thrift shop

Local Art theater

A period piece movie at an art theater, say a 70's or 80's movie or midnight showing of the "Rocky Horror Picture Show" that allows audience participation. If you've never seen it, trust me, rent it, or you may be a little shocked when you get there.

Once you decide on the ultimate venue, spend the day shopping for duds to match at your local thrift store. Some ideas, a polyester suit to see "Foxy Brown" or "Shaft", or a corset and pearls to play Dr. Frank-N-Furter, for the guy, that is.

Remember, that the ultimate goal of your "outside the box" date night is not to put a price tag on the evening, but to create memories that will last a lifetime, even when you are on a budget.