Free, Frugal & Fancy Dates

Dating may very well be one of the most enjoyable pastimes, because it involves relaxing and enjoying the company of someone you love. Although I have been with my boyfriend for a bit over a year, I am still new to dating, but I'm enjoying every new experience.

For this post, I wanted to share some of my favorite dates as well as dates that I plan on having so that you can find creative ways to bond with your significant other:

1. Disneyland (It may not be the most inexpensive date, but you can splurge just a couple times a year, because, hello! It's the happiest place on earth! And who better to be with than the person you hold nearest and dearest.)

2. Apple Farm (They're usually located somewhere rustic and distant from the world so you can withdraw from and focus on each other while munching on some yummy apple goods.)

3. Forest/Mountains (If you're up for a cozy escape, nothing says it better than a hike where you might find the perfect scenic spot that you can admire together.)

4. Pumpkin Patch (While they tend to be crowded, they're a fun way to snap a shot for your Christmas cards... and you can snuggle up and share a tasty slice of pie!)

5. Fancy Movie (We've all been on those standard movie dates and they're fun, so we keep having them, but for an exclusive night out, try hitting up a high end movie theater with reclining seats and a personal server to really turn up the mood. I've been to some that only cost $1-3 more than regular tickets!)

6.Night Under the Stars (Grab the pickup, stuff some pillows, blankets & snacks in the back seat and drive off into the rural dessert or mountains to catch a glimpse of nature's spectacular night show.)

7. Picnic In a Garden (Depending on where you live, there are some lovely gardens where you can pack lunch and sit among beautiful blooms for a classic romantic setting. My favorite place is the Huntington Gardens in Pasadena, CA.)

8. Dinner & Show (For an upscale combination, try a dining and show option! There are places that offer live musical performances with your meal so you can eat and stay entertained. A local option is the Candlelight Pavilion in Claremont, CA.)

9. Surf and Turf (Hit the beach in the evening and pack along a casual dress for a day at the beach, an evening with a beautiful sunset, and a dinner at a local hotspot for a laid back and special day.) 

10. Wine Tasting (If you're in for a little road trip, you can find your way to a vineyard where you can enjoy a fine drink- or few- and a gorgeous view to soak in the memories and company.)