Every one (and I think I can say this as a blanket statement) is impacted in one way or another from the economic stress; businesses closing, loss of jobs, constant worry about job security, foreclosing the home, friends struggling, or simply the news telling you another bad thing. Anxiety may be higher than ever, but this doesn’t mean you have to stop connecting with your partner.  In fact, this is the time to support one another through the stress and help alleviate the pain.

A few years back, my husband was in school and I was starting my therapy practice.  We didn’t have much money at the time, yet we realized the importance of nurturing the relationship.  We started a game called $20 Date Night where every Friday night we switched off with creating the date. The goal is to create a date with only spending $20 or less. To our surprise, we came up with many dates; it just took imagination and creativity.  To this day, we continue or date night challenge…

Don’t let the recession get in the way of your relationship. Take the challenge and create your own date…I dare you!!!

1. Free Admission to the Museum: I live in sunny San Diego where many museums provide a free admission one day per month (each day is specific per museum).  Take the time to admire artwork and see something new.  Play a game with your partner and see if you can guess what each other like and dislike.  Talk to your local museums and see if they have any discounts.
2. Hike and a Picnic: Life gets busy with the every day routine and we can frequently take for granted the beauty of nature.  Take a hike with your partner and bring along fresh fruits and homemade food for two.  Relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
3. Coffee and a Game: There are many coffee shops that provide game boards and books for their customers to use while enjoying coffee.  Mix it up a bit… sip on a latte and challenge your partner at a game.
4. A Night at home (without the kids): A night at home relaxing, watching movies, cuddling in bed, and connecting intimately is a date all on its own.  Drop the kids off at a friend’s house for a no cost date.  This free date is a huge investment in your relationship that will pay off in the long run. Don’t forget to stay away from cleaning, bills, or anything else that may keep you from focusing on one another.
5. Dance Classes: Because I live in lovely San Diego, there are various restaurants/bars that provide a first time free dance lesson.   Get dressed up and learn how to move your bodies together to the music.
6. Skinny Dipping at home: Sometimes we simply need to step out of the box and do something exciting!  If you have a pool, take off the clothes and jump in…No cost and a lot of fun.

Read my other article about $20 Date Night ideas for more ideas and share some of your own dates that are low cost!  Also, learn how to keep your relationship strong when money is tight.

Many couples have the stress with finances and struggle to keep the marriage securely attached.  Marriage needs to be nurtured, similar to growing a flower.  It needs sun light, water, nutrients from the soil, and time to grow.

A few years back, my husband was in school and I was starting my therapy practice.  We didn’t have much money at the time, yet wanted to keep the relationship strong and connected.  We started a game called $20 Date Night.  We scheduled every Friday night for date night and we switched off with creating the date.  The goal of date night is to create a date with only spending $20.  To our surprise, we came up with many dates for $20 or less; it just took imagination and creativity.  To this day, we continue or date night challenge…

Date night is a relationship necessity and priority… just like giving a plant its water and sunlight on a regular basis.  I encourage you to take the challenge and create your $20 date night!  Don’t let the lack of money get in the way of your relationship. Here are a few ideas on creating a $20 or less date night.  Take the challenge and create your own date…I dare you!!!

• Dinner for two: Find a local restaurant that provides a happy hour menu. Order several appetizers to share. Many restaurants have large portions and you two can be satisfied with simply a few items.
• Tiki Tourches: Why spend money if you can have your date in your own back yard? Spend a few dollars on tiki tourches and create a romantic ambiance without spending much money. Dinner outside and focusing on one another is a great way to nurture your relationship without hurting the bank account. Plus you don’t have to pay for babysitting!
• Sunset and Sandwiches: Take the time to watch a beautiful sunsets while eating gourmet sandwiches from your local deli. Cuddle up with a blanket and enjoy the view!
• Picnic at the Park: Nice weather, homemade food, and a cozy blanket can make the best date out at the park. The relaxing atmosphere and a place to focus on one another. Bring along a deck of cards or a
• Bonfire Dinners: Here in San Diego there are many different beaches to do a bonfire. If you have the luxury of a bonfire pit, take your partner out have dinner and shmores around the fire.
• Open-mic Night: Many coffee shops do an open microphone night for musicians, comedians, etc. Be adventurous and hit a coffee shop near you. The price of a latte and sugary scone might just hit the spot!
• Matinee Movie: Dates don’t have to be during the evening… matinee movies are great with cost and easy to still have time as a couple. Snuggle up and enjoy the movie.
• Movie and Snacks: Avoid the uncomfortable cuddling in a movie theatre and have a movie night at home. Spread out your favorite snack items, such as cheese, crackers, veggies, etc.

Share if you have any $20 date night ideas!