Nearly all teenagers these days are in the dating scene. At some point, everyone needs some guidance and ideas to help spark romance. Due to popular demand, and frankly a desperate need, I have decided to give my input on dating, specifically, the dates themselves. Everyone knows the run-of-the-mill dates – the movies, dinner, etc. That’s just fine and all, but after a while doing the same over and over becomes boring. If you really want to woo that special person, nothing makes an impression like creativity. I wanted to offer to the students of Bel Air High School an elevated dating experience. I plan to do so by offering unique, some very unique, ideas for dates. Some have been suggested by my friends and teachers; others originate from my own imagination.

Everyone is different, so you have to cater the date around that guy or gal you’re taking out. That’s why I’ve divided the article into sections; one can chose the dates that best suit the situation. These categories include: the night in date, the budget date, the active date, the nature date, and the rainy day date.

The Night in Date

Sometimes you think you have to go out of the house for a nice date, when you can actually have fun at home! Everyone loves to go to a nice restaurant, but nothing compares to a home cooked meal. Making dinner at home for that special someone is a great way to impress them with your cooking skills. Just try not to get them sick. Going out to the movies is a good time also, but it’s much more economical and creative to stay in for your favorite flicks. Each of you can pick your favorite film; you’d be surprised how much you can learn from a person’s taste in movies. Not only will you branch out and watch something you normally wouldn’t, but you can also learn about what your boyfriend or girlfriend is interested in. While you’re watching, or if you don’t want to watch a movie, you can play board games.

The Budget Date

Teenagers often have minimum wage jobs, and along with that, spartan resources. Maybe our male readers are just cheap. Did I say that aloud? Regardless, you’ll impress anyone with these thrifty ideas! One of my teachers suggested a very interesting idea – going to BJ’s to eat free samples. It may sound weird, but it actually it can be really exciting date. Imagine the following – trying different types food, laughing, having a good times, and it doesn’t cost you a cent. After you’re full and ready to move on, what’s another completely free activity? Going to a museum!  Concordantly, it’s a great way to show off your cultural side. There’s the classic Baltimore Museum of Art, the European route of Walter’s Museum of Art, or a more alternative Baltimore Tattoo Museum.

The Active Date

Some of us aren’t entertained by the idea of just sitting to watch a movie, or to look at art. We need something to keep us occupied. For the more active types, I have a solution. Many teens have a gym membership anyways, so why not utilize it? You can take that special someone to workout, which could be a variety of options. Maybe you want to go swimming, play racquetball, basketball, run together, or compete in a friendly game. Another easy idea is going to a yoga class. Yoga is for expert and beginner alike, so it’s suitable for anyone, even if you’re not usually the active type. Afterwards, you can go out for a healthy meal or snack to recover, like smoothies or sandwiches.

The Nature Date

This date is catered to those who are more inclined to appreciate nature and be outdoors. As a vegan, I have also been known as a nature lover, so I’m writing this section for those like me. You can start out the date in the morning, by going to the farmer’s market. Lucky for us, we have the Bel Air Farmer’s Market right in town every Saturday, starting in the spring! They have a wide selection of food including fruits, vegetables, breads, and baked goods. Some florists there have beautiful flower arrangements that any girl would enjoy. After that, you can enjoy breakfast at a nearby restaurant, like Sunny Day or Bagel Works. Maybe you would want to go on a hike together. There are plenty of national parks in our area, like Gunpowder Falls State Park or Rock State Park. You may want to bring a picnic or fixings for s’mores! A great way to finish the day would be enjoying a s’more by the bonfire.

The Rainy Day Date

Outdoor activities offer limitless possibilities, but it’s not always perfect sunny weather. Especially during the winter time, not everyone is willing to face the elements for a romantic date. Nothing is better than a hot cup of coffee on a rainy day. Shamrock Coffee right on Main Street or Starbucks offer a place to sit and chat. After that, you can hang around a Barnes and Noble and flip through books. It’s an opportune way to learn about one another. For example, looking at travel books can open up endless discussions on where one wishes to travel or live in the future.  After that, you can pop in a poetry slam or open mike. They are at many Bel Air establishments: Barely Used, Yoga Fresh, or even our very own Bel Air High School. This is a foolproof way to ensure your date won’t get cancelled. No need for a rain check!

With these unusual date ideas, you’re sure to impress that special someone. Now go out there and knock ‘em dead!