You can’t put a price on love, but these days, dating in San Antonio is costing a lot more. With the rise in inflation and gas prices skyrocketing, it’s no wonder some folks are choosing the single life. However, cuffing season is in full swing, and if you’re looking to secure a plus-one for holiday dinners then there’s some things you need to know before jumping in feet first to the millennial-era of courtship.
First, if you may be asking yourself, “what is cuffing season?” Well, Merriam Webster dictionary defines it as “a period of time where single people begin looking for short term relationships to pass the colder months of the year.” It usually begins in October and lasts until just after Valentine’s Day, the definition continues.
The hard facts are nothing is getting cheaper, and it’s hitting the pocket books of millennials and Gen Z’s the hardest. In fact, 22% of millennials (ages 26 to 41) and 19% of Gen Zers (ages 18 to 25) have gone into debt from what they’ve spent on dating, according to a September Lendingtree survey.
But don’t feel like you need to spend an arm and a leg to impress your date. I spoke to local experts who say the best thing to do, especially for the initial meeting, is to keep it simple.
“The first few dates should be focused on building a connection and learning more about your date,” Melanie Shores, director of Matchmaking at Modern Mingle, says. “You should save the expensive dates for the big occasions, once you are certain this is someone you are interested in.”
The San Antonio-based matchmaking service has seen its fair share of clients, and goes beyond setting you up with a “checklist” of attributes. Their success stories lie within the discreet nature of learning about who you are, what you’re looking for and how you measure your values.
Shores says it’s normal to be nervous and anxious about a first date but stresses not to overcomplicate things.
“The concerns we hear most often are about making a good impression,” Shores says. “That can range from dressing to impress, what to talk about and finding the best location for the date. It’s important to keep the first date simple because it really takes the pressure off.”
Some date options are grabbing coffee, taking a stroll at the Pearl or on the River Walk, hiking, checking out a local brewery, having a picnic at the park, and free movies in the park.
“Do your research before the date,” Shores suggests. “There are so many events happening around the city and budget friendly options that with a little planning, you can have a great night out without breaking the bank.”
If that isn’t enough to convince you to take it easy, then here’s another fun fact according to Lendingtree’s survey: Around 85% of respondents said they wouldn’t feel offended if their partner took them on a low-cost date.
So, happy cuffing season y’all!