In the spring, it’s natural to have certain instincts; enjoying the blooming foliage, shrugging off winter’s heavy layers…and feeling a little extra romantic. Even in these economically recessive times, it’s important that we continue to hold on to the things that truly make us happy. Otherwise, what are we working hard and budgeting and stressing about? The key is to figure out how to retain the things we enjoy while reworking our approach to doing them to fit a tighter budget. And one of those great life joys, especially at this time of year, is giving into your more romantic inclinations.

Whether you’ve been married for 50 years, or are bravely sailing the single seas, this is a great time to get out there and starting wooing people! Regardless of whether it’s your first or 100th, going on dates is a wonderful thing. Many would argue that the idea of going on actual “dates”, in the traditional definition of the word, is an antiquated tradition and that modern courtship doesn’t really work like that anymore. I beg to differ. I think dates are fabulous. And I’m officially decreeing that all of you take your favorite sweetheart, new or old out on a good old fashioned springtime amorous adventure. Here are some ideas on accomplishing this without going spend crazy.

Don’t pay for what you can do yourself

I once went out with this guy who thought that he should always cook me dinner instead of taking me out. Apparently, someone told him that this is a “super romantic” thing to do and so he did it. A lot. And he was a truly, epically bad cook. Regardless, the fact that he spent the time and energy to do something sweet (that clearly didn’t come naturally to him) to impress me was, well, impressive. While I’m not advising that you always cook for your dates, it’s one of those tried-and-true tricks that any date finds endearing. Why would you always go out to eat at an expensive restaurant when you can stay in, save money, and win lots of dating bonus points?

Similarly, you can apply this mindset to other facets of dating; hand-making cards and small gifts (I’m not talking about thrown together, 3rd grade, Mother’s Day stuff – you have to make it a little more awesome in this case) will incite lovely feelings infinitely more than something impersonal and store-bought – and, of course, it makes the careful wallet-watcher happy.

The cheesiest things in life are free

Generally speaking, I’m more of a fan of fun, adventurous dates, as opposed to traditionally “romantic” excursions. That said, I think everyone can get into the sappy, sweet, sentimental indulgences – every now and then. And luckily, these things can usually be pulled off with minimal expense. Here’s a fail-safe winner: take your loved one on a tour of significant places the two of you have together; where you had your first date, the place you met, where you had your first kiss, etc… you get the idea. Even if some of these places are restaurants, there’s still no need to spend a lot of money; you’re not staying at any of these places. Stay for one drink and move on. The gesture will seem overwhelming and thoughtful and all in all, you won’t have spent very much. This is especially effective if you and the object of your affection have been together for a longer period of time.

Get dirty

Not that kind of dirty (well, maybe after the date!), I’m talking about actually dirty. Try researching community gardens in your neighborhood and take your love for a day of digging in the dirt – volunteering in a garden (asking a date to work in your garden somehow doesn’t have the same charm) means sunlight, which triggers your brain’s happy chemicals, working together, which forms a bond, and getting sweaty and a little gross. Maybe that doesn’t sound terribly appealing but really, too often people get preoccupied on dates with making sure that their clothes, hair and make-up are just right. A date like this strips those things away and you are forced to immediately relax, take things less seriously, and get to know each other on a more sincere level. And, of course, it won’t cost you any more than the price of sunscreen and a couple of iced teas when you’re done.

Take in a little culture

This is my classic date stand-by: the art gallery. True, going to gallery openings and events is something I already enjoy doing but even if it’s not your usual cup o’ tea, it’s a pretty brilliant dating plan. For starters, gallery openings are always free. If you find a gallery that actually tries to charge admission, I forbid you from ever going there. Also, you’ll usually find yummy snacks and some form of booze – which are both things you want on an evening out with your sweet friend. And between the art itself and the people watching, you’re sure to have things to talk about. Also, check out museums in your city – most have at least a few free admission days, or cheap events, each month. And what date wouldn’t be impressed by being taken for a night out at a museum? Hint: for additional “looking extra smart and cultured” points, go the gallery or museum a few days before you take your date there. Looking like you actually know about the art you’re seeing is always a good thing.

Go natural

This is at least partially about enjoying the season, right? You should maximize the beautiful spring atmosphere. Seriously, think about it: why would you buy your date flowers when there are flowers blooming everywhere?! Instead, go on a walk in a park or neighborhood rose garden. Hand-picking flowers while walking together is infinitely more romantic than whipping out your credit card at the flower shop (and let’s be real; you buy girls flower from the grocery story, don’t you?)

For an evening alternative, go to an observatory and give your date sparkling stars instead of sparkling jewelry. With dates, it’s not about how much you spend. It’s about being creative and finding unique ways to connect with the other person – and hopefully, take their breath away a little in the process. Millions of stars is a pretty damn good way to do that.

How do you get sweet on the cheap?

Original ways to carry on a dating life without spending a lot of money vary from town to town – and from relationship to relationship. What do you do to keep the spark in your love life? What are some of your favorite inexpensive dating options?