How to deal with friends who are not frugal?

[aloudon2]

Newbie here! My husband and I are trying to make this lifestyle work for us, but we have friends that we see regularly but who like to go out! How can we stop spending $50-$60 every time we hang out with them!? We all work during the week and having them over is not a great option because we live in a TINY 250 sq ft granny flat and they live 30+ min away (we usually meet them halfway). Any ideas?? Help me think outside the box!

[boarder42]

what are you spending that money on... simple solution dont spend the 50 - 60 bucks every time you meet ... solution solved

[surfhb]

What's your financial situation? 

It all depends on how much you make and your goals.

You can live frugally and still spend money on the fun stuff ya know :)

[CommonCents]

Meet them for brunch (or lunch) instead of dinner.  Cheaper prices and alcohol is rarely added.

Suggest ethnic restaurants that are cheaper.

Look for freebie or cheap entertainment - hiking, free outdoor concert or music, outdoor movies, fall apple picking, canoeing/kayaking...particularly in the summer it is is super easy to find free entertainment, but even wintertime you can find an outdoor pond for skating, or walk along a pretty lighted path, or go cross-country skiing (buy used skis)...

Meet them for a picnic

Trade off driving further to meet at houses/apartments

ETA: Also try spliting an entree with your husband.  Often they're big enough for two.

[GumbyPickles]

Newbie here! My husband and I are trying to make this lifestyle work for us, but we have friends that we see regularly but who like to go out! How can we stop spending $50-$60 every time we hang out with them!? We all work during the week and having them over is not a great option because we live in a TINY 250 sq ft granny flat and they live 30+ min away (we usually meet them halfway). Any ideas?? Help me think outside the box!

Why not just get cheaper options?  Force yourself to go for the PBR instead of a mixed drink, get the small dinner special, skip appetizers, don't get snacks at the movies.  Whatever you are doing there are ways to do it cheaper.  I wouldn't stop being social in ways you enjoy with people you enjoy, that's where frugality meets cheapskate.