Dosh dilemma: Jed blew his weekly budget on one date: how to impress without splashing cash you haven’t got

Jed was nervous about his first date in years. Recently divorced, he hadn’t been part of the dating game for a long time. When he met his date at a nice restaurant, things seemed to go well, they laughed, chatted and enjoyed the evening.

Then came the bill. Wanting to be a gentleman, Jed picked it up himself, over £100 in total. Unfortunately, the cost left him short on his household bills. To make matters worse, after a few unanswered follow-up texts, it became clear the date wasn’t going anywhere. Now Jed’s wondering:

“How can I make a good impression without spending money I don’t have?”

Well, Jed, don’t worry, it’s completely possible to have a memorable date without breaking the bank.

Here are some ways to impress for less:

Go for a walk

Going for a walk is completely free and one of the best ways to connect. Strolling through a park, along a river, or even through your local town lets conversation flow naturally. There’s less pressure than sitting across a restaurant table, and if you time it for sunset, it can be surprisingly romantic.

Pick a scenic route or somewhere with coffee nearby if you want to extend the date.

Plan a picnic

A picnic is a classic low-cost date that oozes romance. Fill a basket with some tasty snacks, a bottle of wine or soft drinks and a blanket, then head to your local park. It’s relaxed, personal and can feel more thoughtful than any fancy restaurant.

Just remember to check the weather first, as nothing kills romance faster than a sudden downpour!

Cook a meal together

Rather than splurging on a restaurant, invite your date to cook a meal together. It’s fun, interactive, and a great way to show off your personality, and maybe your culinary skills.

Just make sure it’s not too soon, cooking at home tends to work better for a second or third date.

Visit a gallery or museum

If you both enjoy art, culture or history, head to a local gallery or museum. They’re usually free or very affordable, and the exhibits give you endless conversation starters. Plus, walking around together keeps the atmosphere relaxed.

Look for free local events

Many towns and cities host free events, outdoor cinema nights, food festivals, live music, or local markets. These can be lively, fun, and ideal for a casual first or second date.

Be honest about money

There’s no shame in being upfront about your budget. Dating doesn’t have to mean spending big. If you do decide to spend, set a limit you’re comfortable with and choose a venue that suits it.

You can even mention early on that you prefer more relaxed, low-cost dates, it sets expectations and shows confidence.