Woman Proudly Says She’s on a Budget, Still Orders Drinks Like a Wizard

Carmen, 33, tracks every dollar in Notion. She makes iced coffee at home. She texts “I’m broke lol” at least twice a week. But place her within 15 feet of a mood-lit cocktail menu and she’ll order something called “The Seasonal Reckoning.”

“It’s my one treat,” she says, sipping an amber-colored liquid topped with foam, edible glitter, and something that may be a pinecone. “I deserve a little magic.”

Her budget reflects aggressive discipline — until faced with drinks that come in smoke or antique glassware. Last weekend: $63 on three cocktails. That same night, she Venmo-requested a friend $4.20 for split fries.

“It’s about intention,” she said. “And mouthfeel.”

Jules Cringeley nodded slowly: “Some women want a financial plan. Others want a rosemary sprig and chaos.”