So you are one of the fortunate people who have been chatting online with someone great while browsing internet dating sites. You have been talking and enjoying one another’s conversations for a few weeks and you both feel that it is time to meet to take the relationship to the next level. When planning your first date, how do you decide whether to meet for coffee or a drink or whether to meet for dinner?
Even more important, how do you decide who pays for the first date? In the past few years, the issue of money in relationships has become quite an issue. People divorce over it, argue over it and some people even end friendships because of it. Since dating is supposed to be fun, how does one bring up a subject that seems to ignite so many emotions?
The answer depends on your comfort level with each other. If you feel talking about money would present an issue, then proceed with caution. Having said that, tradition says that men pay, at least initially. This approach sure makes things easier for both parties and allows you to get to know each other without having to raise the issue of money.
Provided that things go well, you might even end up in a relationship. Things will progress naturally and that usually results in a fair exchange. Most women are more than willing to pay their fair share of things. But that’s getting ahead of ourselves. Before you get there, here are some things to think about;
1. Discuss a day and time you want to meet.
This is important because you might want to meet at a certain time and he might be thinking about something totally different. For instance, as a woman you may feel more safe meeting during the day for lunch while he might enjoy the night life.
2. Discuss where you want to go.
Once you have decided what time of day you would like to meet, determine what it is you both would like to do? Are you interested in dinner, lunch, going to a museum or perhaps a movie?
3. What are you going to wear?
While many first dates are pretty casual, where you go can determine what you wear. This might be something good to talk about so you can both be prepared and have the most comfortable first date possible.
The when, the where and the what have been decided. Now is the time for nature to run its course. First dates are all about getting to know each other, so do just that. Talk, listen and smile. If you want to bring up the subject of who pays, do so in a relaxed manner and if your date says “My treat”, smile and say “Thank you”.
This post was written by the staff of the Datepad.com internet dating company where you can read hundreds more professional dating posts. Grab a totally unique version of this article from the Uber Article Directory