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First Date Etiquette: the Madelaine Hanson edition
Because I’m the epitome of class, dear reader
The rules are as follows, dear ladies and gentlemen. Always, and without exception. You don’t owe anyone you go on an initial date with romance or attention, but you do owe them manners, decency, and a degree of politeness. Are some of these really obvious? Yes. But as my comment sections show, some people are really, really stupid. Onwards, dearhearts.
Always be prepared to cover your own costs
I don’t care what gender you are: always bring your bloody debit card or some cash. Not because the other person will expect you to pay after asking you out, but because sometimes, a card doesn’t work, you wanted a more expensive option, or it just makes things awkward. It is polite to discreetly take your debit card out at the end of the meal to establish you are prepared to pay your share if they wish. Never go on a date that you cannot cover without having a panic attack. Very gauche behaviour.
Yes: most men want to pay for me and are offended or think I’m not interested in him if I try to, but I’ve never attended anything without my own money on hand.
