What Dating Etiquette? Coupons Are Sexy On First Dates!

Looking to impress your next date? Simply use a coupon. Yes, you read that right, coupons are sexy even on first dates. Money can be tight at times in the uncertain times we live in, and coupons are a perfect way to offset some of the dinner cost on a first date. Perhaps you’re not entirely comfortable with the idea, however. While it’s always great to save money,  you’re probably wondering  if its good manners to use a coupon on a first date? Will she think you’re cheap? Or will she think you’re bold, different, and financially savvy?

Its a tough call for most to make, but in order to protect their image most shy away from using a coupon on first date. Most actually shy away from using coupons within the first month of dating or at least until they feel comfortable enough around the person. And there’s nothing wrong this, as most people feel like this. However, speaking from personal experience, I’ve never been the type to roll with the crowd, and instead like to stand out from the average.

I know we’re still reeling from a recession. Trust me, I know. However, I also know the power of a first impression and using a coupon on a first date may not make a good impression. Would you show up in a cheap suit for a job interview? The two are essentially the same to a degree. However, no one will know whether your suit is designer or whether its a cheap suit. Using a coupon no one should look down on you either, to some it may be a sign of cheapness, to most it will be a sign of a financially savvy person.

A new study by CouponCabin.com found that 25 percent of people believe it is acceptable to use a coupon on a first date (Credit: CBS Chicago). Furthermore, nearly 1 in 5 men use a coupon on a first date. I told you coupons on first dates are sexy. Finally, nearly 75% of the respondents that indicated their date used a coupon also indicated that they went out with their date on a second date. Are you becoming a little more acceptable now? C’mon join the dark side – we have cookies! :)

So, if you’re reading this post you’re still probably confused. I will try to clear up the confusion by sharing some upsides, downsides, and my thoughts on using coupons on first dates, and maybe just prove to you that coupons are sexy on first dates.

Upsides Of Coupons On First Dates

1. You’re Financially Savvy – If you choose to use a coupon on your first date, you are sending a clear message – You realize the value of a a dollar, what it takes to earn one, and that you’re responsible with your money. No, you’re not cheap, and if your date suggests that you are cheap, they obviously don’t share the same financial ideas like you.
2. You Put It Out There – Money is difficult to talk about amongst couples, by showing off your frugal ways, you’re putting out there for money to be discussed. Last thing you want to find out after months of dating that your new dating partner has a spending habit.
3. You Save Money – That’s unless you don’t like saving money, which would put you into the ‘odd’ category. I been on ample dates (even though I avoid dinners on first dates at all costs) where I picked up the tab, and realized that I didn’t want to see the person again or a second date didn’t happen due to circumstances beyond my control. Had I used coupons on even a quarter of these dates, I would have cut my losses significantly.
4. This Is Who YOU Are – Why worry about what someone else will think of you? Get real, someone will either like you or not, whether you use a coupon or not. They’re dating you, and not the coupon. I’d rather someone like me for who I am, than pretend to be someone that I’m not.

Downsides Of Coupons On First Dates

1. Risk Of Rejection – Sparks are flying on your date, and you’re both feeling it. Things are grand until you whip out the coupon, and her face drop. Hopefully you got your A game on, and that you’re the outgoing type who can defuse the situation. If you get out on a few dates, the stakes on the table may be too high to risk .

Just Be Who You Are

Women are animals, just like us, and they sense things from a gut level, as all animals do. Confidence and being your self are your two allies in this endeavor. This is why its important to be who you are, rather than someone who’s looking to impress a woman for a night. If a woman likes you, feels you, wants to see you again – you will know, and the use of a coupon on your date will have very little to do with it.

I’m certain that some of you (maybe a lot of you) won’t agree with my logic, but I didn’t write this post to seek your like or approval, but instead shared the true reality. I’m proud to say that I’ve used coupons on first dates – movies, dinners, mini-golf, and bowling have become much more affordable. Furthermore, 75% of my first dates turned into second dates. The remaining 25% unsuccessful rate was due to mutual disinterest or outright disinterest from one of the parties.

Finding a partner with a similar financial mindset could provide for a relationship that will last. If you’ve got the courage to do it, you just might find yourself the perfect match.

Have you ever used a coupon on a first date? If not, would you ever?

Good luck!

Eddie