How to create the perfect date:

Steps for creating the perfect date....

• Step 1: Choose a date and time when your significant other is available... Remember that available refers to more than what's on the calendar. For instance, planning a fun night out on a Friday after a long and stressful work week is not an ingredient for a successful night.
• Step 2: Select a "mood." This is important!!! The mood determines everything else. Consider your significant other's personality in general and what they have been like lately (i.e., if they've been stressed and want a relaxing night). "Mood" examples: creative, romantic, adventurous, relaxing, etc.
• Step 3: Determine your budget for the night. You can still do something special on a budget.
• Step 4: With your budget in mind, decide what the date's schedule will be... when and where. The best dates usually have a part 1 and a part 2--the fun thing is, they don't have to be congruent. (e.g. dressing up for a play then grabbing burgers at an eclectic diner afterward.)
• Step 5: Invite him/her in a creative way. Maybe a thoughtful note, asking in person, or surprising them with a clue that leads them to you...
• Step 6: Think of something you could do to set the date apart from others... Be careful of avoiding cheesiness. Ideas: a letter listing all the reasons you love him/her, a letter recalling where they were a year+ ago, choosing a nostalgic location, a thoughtful gift, a cd mix to listen to in the car...
• Step 7: Enjoy!

Resources:

I love checking ideas and articles on The Nest for themed or economical date nights.

Cloud 9 offers resources for more generous budget experiences.