The Opposite Sex: 4 Casual Ways To Date Without Dinner
Janina Steinmetz
With the government having shut down, spending money loosely is out of the question for some. Who needs a romantic dinner for two when feeding pet fish is 10 times as cheap? All jokes, but seriously… Dating and frugality don’t always mix, especially when, for example, you’re riding solo in a big city. You’d think dating in urban areas would be easier. The pool of candidates is so broad! There’s always a place to go and have fun! Yellow cabs make getting home plastered so much easier!
But other than these perks, dating in highly populated areas has clear disadvantages to humble towns. It’s missing the togetherness of close-knit neighborhoods. Small-town dating narrows the pool of potentials, so you’re not knocking on everyone’s hypothetical door. Even the simplicity of driving to a secret location for a picnic is compromised (in a city, bums already live in secret spots).
No matter where you live, dating is a costly process. As a classy gentleman, you know that money doesn’t always lead to finding Ms. Right. Once you've found a lady you’re ready to get to know, try the following four scenarios to get to know a lady before setting dinner plans.
Talk To Strangers
In your group of closest bros, there must be one guy who’s met this female you might be interested in. Though taking your buddies’ advice about this mystery woman is natural, consider dating entirely outside of your friend/friend-of-a-friend group. It gives you a chance to make more personal choices about the type of woman you want to approach. Searching for dating potential beyond friend-groups allows you to avoid going after anyone that a friend might want to start seeing. It also opens up your circle of friends (unless you’re on the “No New Friends” kick that Drake's started).
Becoming a small-talk pro is the perfect way to break the ice with an attractive lady. The most important part of small-talk? Don’t make it awkward. Ask an open-ended question that won’t provide a yes/no response. Leave her room to reply, and don’t make her feel uncomfortable. It’s not what you say, but how!
Assess Her Character
Make plans that don’t outright qualify as dates. This'll teach you about how she likes to spend her time. If she’s into yoga, go with her to a class and laugh off all the trembling and falling you will probably do. Grab your friends and go to a sports bar on game day. Both of these scenarios show you two different sides of this girl. What are you getting out of this is? You're getting a good workout and all-you-can-eat wings. No one is losing, and you know she likes to have fun.
Brunch At Your Favorite Spot
Once you’re almost ready to take the first-date plunge, go for brunch. It’s in a relaxed setting, and everyone is mimosa-ready. Great food and conversation should be expected, and it won’t be weird for you to each pay separate bills. By taking her to one of your favorite places, she’s getting a feel for what foods and drinks you like and how you dine. Sounds like an excellent deal.
Ask Her Friends
Before taking her out, talk to her girlfriends. Depending on how long you’ve had an established friendship, those closest to her can guide you to do the right things. Her friends could give you inside pointers for how to impress her on your first real date. She'll be happy that you all are friendly with each other, and those ladies will put in a good word for you during wine night.