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In these tough economic times, you or someone you know may have been laid off, have work hours cut back, or have received a pay decrease. For people who are in between jobs, an important question is how to maintain an active and healthy social life with friends and family on a budget.
Someone I know, “Laurie”, worked as an attorney in New York City. With a $150,000 salary, Laurie frequented happy hours on Thursdays, held Date Night Saturdays, and met girlfriends for Brunch Sundays. After Laurie was laid off a few months ago, however, she found herself dealing with a sticky situation: socializing on a newly-shrunken budget.
Laurie wants to hang out with her friends, but can’t keep on spending the way she used to. I am also in between jobs, so I understand her predicament: How do you stay connected with friends when you don’t have money to go out anymore?
Food is a big part of our social culture. I've always been passionate about eating, now I've decided to get better at the other side of the equation - cooking. With the extra time I’ve had (and the episodes of Iron Chef America I’ve caught up on), I’ve become a budding chef and hostess. In the past month or so, I have hosted six dinner parties or brunch parties with various friends, whom I have recruited to try out new recipes. Learning to cook and entertaining at home helps me stay connected to my friends, but is much budget-friendlier than going out to eat. Besides, learning to cook at home is a skill that will help your budget no matter what your job situation.
Here are several ways that anyone can socialize on the cheap:
- Host a potluck / game night. Have everyone bring a dish (a couple of entrees, a dessert) and wine, throw in a game, and a roaring good time will be had by all. Being Frugal had a great time playing The Game of Life with her family. For those who are too antsy to sit and play a broad game for long, Pictionary and Charade are other fun options.
- Being on a budget doesn't mean you have to put your love life on hold. Just substitute a low-key, budget-friendly date for a 3-course meal at a swanky bistro. Brittany at Burbmom had a lovely time walking around an open air market, listening to free live music, and munched on salad from a salad bar.
- If you have a family or children to hang out with, you go to libraries, public parks, have a picnic on the beach, etc. Many organizations also have free or special admissions for young kids. Momma Needs A Minute lists several fun things that a family can do in Dallas.
- When eating in restaurants, order an appetizer or hold back on alcohol to save money. Friends should respect that you’re on a tighter budget. If a friend or family member offer to treat you, accept graciously (but never expect it or take advantage of the situation).
- Instead of getting dinner with friends, you can do a
