I'm pretty sure my mom would never speak to me again if I hired a babysitter. We try to use family any time we need help, because they don't get to see him all the time. We actually went out for the first time alone this past weekend for DH's 30th birthday. A few weekends before that, LO spent the night at my parents' house, because I was trying to get work done (for work and housework), and they offered just to keep him for the rest of the night.
It was really nice to get out, but we can't always justify the cost. We need to find ways to spend time together outside of the house without spending money. We've talked about trying to do it once a month, but we're already going back out tonight for DH's company party. It starts after LO's in bed, so babysitting is extra easy.