5 Ways to Make the Money Date Fun


 A "money date" doesn't have to feel like a tedious accounting session. In fact, when done right, it can be one of the most productive and enjoyable times you spend together as a couple. Here are five ways to infuse some fun into your next money date:

1. Set the Mood (Seriously!)


Don't just plop down at the kitchen table with a stack of bills. Treat your money date like a real date!

  • Pick a relaxing time and place: Maybe after the kids are asleep, or a quiet Sunday morning.

  • Create ambiance: Put on some mellow music, light a candle, or grab your favorite beverages (coffee, tea, or a celebratory drink).

  • Order in or make a special snack: If your budget allows, order your favorite takeout. If not, make some popcorn or bake cookies. The idea is to associate the money discussion with something enjoyable and comfortable.

2. Gamify Your Goals


Turn your financial objectives into a friendly competition or a collaborative game.

  • Debt Payoff Race: If you're tackling debt, create a visual tracker (like a thermometer or a race track) and celebrate each "mile marker" you hit. Maybe the first person to hit their individual debt goal gets to pick the next date night activity. Complete a Pinterest Search : "Best Payoff Tracker Printable" for some great ideas.

  • Savings Challenge: Set a fun, achievable savings challenge for the month. "Can we save an extra $50 for our vacation fund by packing lunches every day?" If you hit it, reward yourselves with a small, budget-friendly treat.

  • "Budget Bingo": Create a bingo card with common spending categories or budgeting tasks (e.g., "Track all groceries," "Find a bill to cut," "No impulse buys for a week"). Cross them off as you go, and when you get Bingo, celebrate! Whip up a batch of bingo cards with Bingo Baker.

3. Dream Big (and Small!)


Money dates aren't just about reviewing the past; they're about planning for the future.

  • Vision Board: Get creative and make a shared financial vision board. Cut out pictures of the house you want, the vacation spot you dream of, or symbols of financial freedom. This makes your abstract goals tangible and exciting. Canva has many free and customizable templates for digital vision boards.

  • "What If" Scenarios: Play a "what if" game. "What if we saved an extra $100 this month? What could we do with that money next year?" Or, "What if we paid off this credit card? How much extra cash would we have?" This can spark motivation and creative solutions.

  • Plan a Fun Reward: Tie a small, desirable reward to hitting a budgeting milestone. It could be a movie night, a new board game, or a picnic in a local park. This gives you something tangible to look forward to and celebrate.

4. Divide and Conquer (and then Celebrate!)


Share the responsibilities so one person isn't doing all the heavy lifting.

  • Assign roles: Maybe one person is the "data gatherer" for the week, pulling statements and categorizing initial transactions, while the other is the "reviewer and planner" for the date. Switch roles next time!

  • Focus on Strengths: If one of you loves spreadsheets and the other loves big-picture dreaming, lean into those strengths. The spreadsheet-lover can organize the numbers, while the dreamer can articulate the long-term goals. Is it better to be a Spender or a Saver? Ramsey Solutions reminds us that both views are money are okey.

  • Celebrate Small Wins: Did you come in under budget on groceries? Did you find an old subscription to cancel? Celebrate these small victories! A high-five, a happy dance, or a simple "Great job, team!" can make a huge difference in motivation.

5. Pray Together and Seek Divine Guidance


For couples who share a faith, incorporating prayer and spiritual guidance can transform your money date from a chore into a deeply meaningful experience.

  • Open with Prayer: Begin your money date by inviting God into your discussion. Ask for wisdom, discernment, and unity as you manage your resources.

  • Discuss Values-Based Spending: Talk about how your budget can reflect your shared values and faith. Are there opportunities for increased generosity or giving? How can your financial decisions align with your purpose as a couple?

  • Seek Direction: As you face financial decisions or challenges, pray together for clear direction. Trust that together, and with God's guidance, you can make the best choices for your financial future. This spiritual connection can bring peace, deepen your bond, and provide a sense of purpose beyond just the numbers.

Remember, your money date is an investment in your relationship and your shared future. By making it intentional, fun, and perhaps even spiritually grounded, you'll find that managing your money together becomes a source of strength, not stress.

What's one thing you're going to do to make your next money date more fun?

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