So who should actually pay on a date, and what are you meant to do when the bill arrives and someone suddenly gets a bit weird about it. This week’s Friday Drinks tackles a DM from someone newly back in the dating world who’s trying to work out whether she’s being too picky, or whether she’s just finally noticing the stuff she used to brush past, like the keeping score, the silence that feels like a test, and the little gold digger jokes that aren’t really jokes. We talk through what’s a fair preference, what’s an early warning sign, and how to be clear about your money values without turning dinner into a negotiation, and we asked the community what they think is normal early on because honestly the answers are revealing. We're also talking bridging loans, which always sound simple until you’re the one trying to buy before you sell and you realise how much of it comes down to timing, pressure, and having a plan if things don’t happen as quickly as you hoped. Victoria breaks down what they actually are, when they can make sense, and where the risk really sits, and as always we’ve got community money wins and broke tips that are both useful and unhinged at the same time. 

THE BEST SOTM FREEBIES: Your 2026 Fresh Start: Free Money Tools You’ll Love

Need the team’s take on your money dilemma? Send us a voicemail here.
Or if it's more of a spicy money drama and you want the communities verdict? Slide into our DMs here. 

Ready for more laughs, lessons, and unhinged money chats? Check out our oh-so-bingeable Friday Drinks playlist. Listen here.

Join our 400K+ She's on the Money community in our Facebook Group and on Instagram. 

Acknowledgement of Country By Nartarsha Bamblett aka Queen Acknowledgements.

The advice shared on She's On The Money is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. She's On The Money exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. If you do choose to buy a financial product, read the PDS, TMD and obtain appropriate financial advice tailored towards your needs.  Victoria Devine and She's On The Money are authorised representatives of Money Sherpa PTY LTD ABN - 321649 27708,  AFSL - 451289.