Valentine’s Day is approaching faster than most guys want to admit, but this year doesn’t have to be all about dinner reservations, chocolate, and roses. With these suggestions and a little creativity, anyone can impress that special lady.
Women's Views of Valentine's Day
Women are, in general, the sentimental ones in the relationship. They think back fondly on memories of first dates not because of the high-end restaurant, but because of the effort put into those early encounters. She isn’t looking forward to Valentine’s Day because of an expensive meal and flowers; she’s looking forward to a romantic (and fun) time with her date.
Men's Reactions to the Most Romantic Holiday
There’s a lot of pressure on guys to make the night perfect. TV and movies make it seem like extravagance is the only way to make the night a success, but pockets only go so deep. At about this time guys are frantically trying to come up with ideas for the perfect date, but sometimes the simple approach can be the best.
Great Dates on a Budget
Something new and different will really make a lasting impression; here are a few suggestions:
- Use the natural resources. The beach can be a great place for a nice walk and a bon fire; if that isn’t an option, a local park or hiking trail can also be hit. Head out before sunset for a more romantic atmosphere.
- Find a nearby ice skating rink then warm up after with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
- Mini-golf or bowling can be a good casual date, just don’t get too competitive.
- Get dressed-up and head to a Jazz bar for a couple drinks and maybe desert. If there isn’t a Jazz bar nearby, any nice bar or café will do but check if reservations will be required.
- Look for a small family owned Italian restaurant. The prices are usually reasonable and the atmosphere will be great.
- Plan a fun night in with a home cooked meal, candles, board games, and a lighthearted movie.
- Set-up a scavenger hunt for her with candy and affectionate notes at each hiding place.
- If there’s snow nearby, take a trip to a sledding hill then get warm by the fireplace.
- Check out an art gallery or museum.
- Sign-up for dance lessons at a local studio, then visit a ballroom or club.
The important thing is to think outside the box and plan an event that she’ll remember. The date doesn’t have to cost a lot to be fun or romantic, it just takes a little imagination.
Readers are welcome to add their date ideas to the comment box.
Dane Coult - Dane resides in Fullerton, California where he currently works as the Chief Flight Instructor at a local flight school. Since he was a ...
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