So, a kind of big thing has happened to me in the past few weeks…
I’ve been dating someone!
It’s been amazing so far. I won’t go into too many details here…this isn’t a relationship blog. But I am really excited about it, and so far I think it’s going well.
But, I’ve established a mental “dating fund” in my mind. But how big (or small) should I make the fund?
My budget on the personal side is solid right now. Even after sending $800 a month to my Mom, I can still save around $500 a month if I want. (remember, besides my mom, all my debt now is just on the business side)
A few things to keep in mind:
- She makes significantly less than I do
- We are both pretty frugal people, don’t need $ to have a good time
- We enjoy food (but made dinner together last night at home)
- I like paying for her
So, what should my monthly dating budget be? $50? $100? $200?
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
That's cool man congrats. I don't think you need to set up a side fund just so yet. Consider it part of your social fund, no different than if you weren't going out with someone. Basically this is now your social life, so budget the way you would it you were single and find activities that you both like, hopefully not costing too much.
I kind of agree with craig. I think maybe you should up your entertainment/social fund by about 60-80 bucks. Congratulations and good luck on this relationship. You must have a pretty tight schedule
Thanks, and yeah, I do have a pretty crazy busy schedule sometimes. But it's also somewhat flexible, as I can work really strange hours sometimes.
congrats debt kid! i kinda have the same situation. my new bf makes less than i do so ive thought about starting a "dating fund".
On a different subject… Could you give some advice on what bank could I open a business checking account for my small consulting start-up venture?
TIA,
–Harish
I've been very pleased so far with my business checking account at Bank of America. No fees, acts just like my personal one. Setting up takes some paperwork, but if you go into a branch and walk through the process with an employee, they make it quite easy.
I think a dating fund is a great idea! My wife and I have an entertainment budget of $40 per month, so maybe give yourself $50. Also, don't fall into the trap of trying to impress her through spending. I did this for a while while my wife and I were dating, and it made for some unfair expectations that we carried into marriage (not that you're going there anytime soon, but it's a good habit).
Even though you didn't ask, I want to offer up a great frugal date idea. Take her to a bookstore (I prefer Elliott Bay Books) and each pick out 5 books that represent you. Find a comfortable, secluded place in the store and share why you chose each book. It's a great way to get to know one another, and it costs you nothing (as long as you can avoid buying the books).
I love the bookstore date idea…in fact, I've used it before (http://blog.lendingclub.com/2007/12/06/7-dating-t...Look at #3….
Actually, I should go back and look at that now…