Dating Etiquette 101
Dating etiquette is complex. One wonders which rule(s) should apply. Should I follow the traditional or the modern rules? Who should invite? Who should pay? Who should decide where to go? Who should call? When is it proper to kiss? Do you expect equality or chivalry? One needs to remember like in most situations, dating behavior is not static and will vary depending on many elements- whether it is a first, second or third date. Are you in a relationship or not? Dating etiquette is more complex. Always behave in a sincere and genuine matter, and practice good manners and etiquette, you cannot go wrong.
[image source_type=”attachment_id” source_value=”777″ align=”left” width=”300″ height=”225″]Evolving Dating Etiquette Rules
There are no dating etiquette rules set in stone. Traditionally, a few rules have been the norm, however, with the advent of feminism and gender equality they have been adjusted, changed or even abolished. Any dating etiquette guidelines you choose to follow is acceptable as long as you remember that no one person is the same, we all have different backgrounds, experiences and expectations. We should not be quick to judge or dismiss a date. No one will be exactly what we want, but they might have many qualities and compatibilities we appreciate. The idea is to be patient and thoughtful before making a decision. Most importantly always be honest.
Two Types Of Dating Etiquette Rules
Follow one (or a little of both) of the two types of dating etiquette rules:
TRADITIONAL;
It has been accepted that the man should initiate a first date invite
It has been accepted that the man should be the one to go up to a lady at a party and introduce himself
It has been accepted that the man should be the one to start a conversation with a woman at a bar or party
It has been accepted that the man should be the one to send a first drink to a lady at a party or bar
It has been accepted that the man should be the one to pick up his date and bring her back afterwards
It has been accepted that the man should open the car door to his lady date
It has been accepted that the man should be the one to choose the outing venue
It has been accepted that the man should order food and drinks
It has been accepted that the man should be the one to invite a lady to dance
It has been accepted that the man should pay the bill
It has been accepted that the man should call after a first date
MODERN AND GENDER EQUALITY;
It is acceptable for a woman to invite a man on a first date
It is acceptable for a woman to send a man a drink [image source_type=”attachment_id” source_value=”779″ align=”center” width=”300″ height=”224″]
It is acceptable and safer for a woman to meet a man at a set location
It is acceptable for a woman to introduce herself to a man at a party
It is acceptable for a man to introduce himself to a woman first
It is acceptable for a woman to open her own car door
It is acceptable for a man to open the restaurant door to his lady companion and let her go in first
It is acceptable for a woman to pay the bill
It is acceptable for man to pay the bill
It is acceptable to split the bill
It is acceptable to say goodbye at the restaurant
It is acceptable for a woman to call a man after the date
It is acceptable for a woman to initiate a second date
Dating Etiquette Do’s & Don’ts
Do not play games
Do not mislead
Do not cancel at the last minute (unless for a serious reason)
Do not stand up anyone
Do arrive on time
Do call if you are running late
Do not drink too much
Do not talk about religion, politics, sex
Do not talk about your previous relationship
Do not talk about children education on your first date and even second date
Do not choose the most expensive restaurant to go to
Do not choose the most expensive plate on the menu
Do compliment your date
Do thank your date for a nice dinner and nice time
Do call back if you are interested
Do let the person know if you are not interested