GOING DUTCH

 

Proper Dating Etiquette 101!

Often times when you have your first date it can be very uncomfortable because there are a lot of uncertainties. You are unsure of the persons motives, intentions, personality, and moral up bringing. If the “Male” was raised to be the head of household for example, he will usually bring a more old fashioned way of thinking into the relationship. If he was raised in a household where the woman was the bread winner however, he may have a more modern way of thinking. Either way it’s important to "Communicate" with the person you are going out with prior to your date in order to have a general idea of what to expect. On a first date it’s typical that the initiator will pick up the bill. However this is not always the case. It goes back to the person’s upbringing, and their way of thinking.


 If you are unsure about how things are going to go when the bills comes to the table the best thing to do is to have a brief conversation prior to going out on your date. It may seem slightly taboo to some, but in the end it’s effective. You will not be sitting at the table staring at one another wondering what the other person is thinking when the check arrives. Going Dutch is traditionally for people who are not romantically involved or for new couples feeling each other out, but everyone has their own opinion on splitting the bill. 

Some men find it insulting if a woman offers to pick up the tab or pay her own way at the end of the date, whereas some men find it very attractive, and invigorating. Stereo-typically the man is expected by society to be the one to pick up the bill on a romantic date, but "Going Dutch" is becoming more common. There are some situations where the woman will pay for the entire meal herself because she feels empowered to do so. Whatever the case may be there is no right or wrong way to handle the situation. The most important factor is the mutual understanding between both parties. 

Communicate with the person you are going out with, and express how you feel about dating. It should not be an aggressive or pushy conversation. Keep it simple, and upbeat. You can say something like, “I can’t wait for our first date Friday night! It will be great to spend some one on one time with you. (pause) I was wondering, what are some of your dating dos and don’ts? Do you feel it’s more acceptable to go “Dutch” on a first date? Or do you prefer to be the one picking up the bill?” Opening up the conversation this way is non offensive, and it can lead to a much needed dialogue that can help you to better understand the person you’re going out with. Having this discussion prior to the date will allow you to feel more relaxed on that first night. After all you will have enough things on your mind, why add to the pressure? 

 HAPPY DATING!!