Romance is one of life’s great joys – but it can bring with it the pressure to splash out on grand gestures. Well, who says romance or a bit of self-love need to break the bank?

In the spirit of keeping both your heart and wallet full this week, we're giving you a quick bonus episode on 10 budget-friendly couples date (or solo date) ideas. So, before you consider buying another overpriced bouquet or fancy set menu, let us inspire you to think outside the chocolate box.

1. Use coupons for eating out

First off, the spotlight's on discount coupons. Websites like Groupon , Scoopon and Entertainment Book app are your ticket to discovering new dining spots without the usual expense.

They often offer "buy one, get one free" deals at restaurants you've been itching to try but couldn't justify the expense. You and your date could be savouring a breakfast platter where you can sample not one, but three mini delights from the menu.

We know what you’re thinking – yes, the app comes with a price tag. But it's peanuts compared to the savings. Sometimes, you can snag a deal on the subscription for as low as 99 cents for three months if you keep your eyes peeled on OzBargain.

Or, like Tash, you might land a year's subscription for the whole of Australia at $29. Considering a single breakfast date can halve your bill from $50 to $25, it's a no-brainer. One outing, and you've already made your money back.

2. Enjoy a cinematic moment on discount Tuesday

There's something about watching a story unfold on the big screen that makes you forget the world outside. You get to enjoy popcorn that somehow tastes better just because you're at the movies. In recent years, though, movie tickets have skyrocketed in price. But when they’re discounted? You might want to add them back to date night rotation.

It's time to swap your couch for a plush seat, especially with deals like cheap Tuesday movie tickets. The trick is to use cashback offers from services like Shopback to snag those tickets at a fraction of the cost.

3. Re-create a TikTok recipe

Ever tried those TikTok recipes that seem to pop up just when you're about to eat your usual, weekday meal? Tash nailed it recently when she made loaded fries with homemade kebab meat recipe – spiced and sliced like a meatloaf.

If you’re cooking with someone, it's a chance to bond over spilled flour and misread recipe instructions. Solo? More power to you and more food for one. Either way, it's a win when you nail a recipe from TikTok. You’ve earned the bragging rights plus a great meal.

4. Become a home bartender

Going out to bars is great. But, considering the alcohol tax hikes in Australia, who wants to pay more when you can play bartender in your own home? No cover charge, no dress code, and definitely no overpriced drinks. Get experimental with whatever cheap bottles and fruit juice or soda you’ve got.

Ana suggests making it a group thing if you’re not celebrating a date night traditionally. She also mentions how folks have themed their cocktail creations around their jobs, which honestly sounds like a blast. Imagine nursing your drink from a syringe. Yeah, it sounds out there, but picture the Insta gold you’d create.

5. A phone-free night at home

Ever noticed how phones can be the third wheel on date night? Here’s a thought: ditch the screens for an evening. Maybe even throw your phones into a basket if you must. From six to nine, it’s just you, your partner, and maybe some board games or a restaurant meal kit to engage each other. Think of it as a mini holiday from the digital world, where the only status update that matters is “focusing on each other”.

6. Picnic in the park

A cheese platter, a cosy blanket, and your favourite person by your side – sometimes, that's all you need for a perfect outing. Some cities offer moonlight cinemas or outdoor theatres, adding a sprinkle of magic to those warm summer nights. Or, add a playful twist to your picnic with a photo scavenger hunt to find each other in the park. That’s exactly Ana and her partner did back in the early days of their relationship.

7. Walk with your partner

A good walk might sound vanilla, but hear us out. It turns out, the benefits are not only limited to health. Ana notes that moving in the same direction opens up the floor for teamwork and openness. It's a metaphor for life, really – walking side by side, tackling whatever comes your way, together.

For a whole month, Tash and her boyfriend committed to a 45-minute walk daily. No distractions, just the two of them and the world passing by. It's simple, yes, but that routine became a dedicated time to share, check on each other and dream together. You know…it’s the simple things happening over time that matter the most, whether in a relationship or investing.

8. Visit an art gallery or a museum (or both)

Many galleries and museums in Australia offer free admission. They also provide a serene backdrop for couples to wander and re-discover mutual interests. And if it turns out not to be your cup of tea? Well, since it's free, you can simply leave, no guilt attached.

9. Reinvent breakfast in bed

Thanks to a little inspiration from TikTok, Ana has another tip for you. This time, you and your partner are swapping newspapers over croissants and coffee.

These aren’t your average dailies, however. We’re talking about newspapers personalised with photos, anniversaries, or even a crossword puzzle related to your memories. It's a thoughtful, practically cost-free, and heartwarming way to remind each other of the life you've shared.

This works just as well with friends to celebrate platonic loves of your life. Gather your crew, or just your bestie, and bring a dish each. Milkshakes, waffles, or anything your heart desires.

10. Go to a class and learn together

Lastly, consider taking a class together. Whether it's cocktail mixing, cooking, pottery, or even coffee art, it's a chance to bond over learning a new skill.

While some classes might lean towards the pricier side, they're an investment in memories and perhaps a newfound hobby. Plus, scouring Groupon for deals can make this adventure more affordable.

Final thoughts

As we wrap up, remember this: self-care time is what you make of it. Solo or paired, there's no right or wrong way to celebrate. Embrace the simplicity of shared moments or the peace of solitude. And if you're looking to dive deeper into long-term investing , our first 10 podcast episodes make things simple enough to get started even solo.

If this quick episode has sparked joy or inspiration, consider spreading the love with a five-star review or by sharing this with someone special. Stay connected with us at @getrichslowclub and follow Tash at @tashInvest or Ana at @anakresina .

Happy investing!

Tash & Ana