Dating and finances

[BabyPiNK_FL]

This thread makes dating sound confusing! I was always raised that a man should pay. However, out of courtesy once we're officially dating then I always offer to chip in once in a while unless it is very clear that he is paying. The fews guys I have dated always wanted to pay if they could so I am used to it. It may be old-fashioned, but I like what I like. I like a true gentleman. But then again, I also don't need fine dining. I'd just as gladly split a salad and and ice cream at Chick-Fil-A or something.

[honeychile]

Originally Posted by 33girl

Were those guys around HERE??? (Here is Pittsburgh for those who don't know) If anything, I've found most of the guys around here that I dated even in the most casual of manners insist on paying for the first date and get borderline offended if I offer to pay for anything. I'm convinced that part of the reason this one guy I went out with didn't ask me out again is because I paid for the movie tickets - issue with parking and ticket sellout - I didn't do it to emasculate him, which it seems he felt I did.

Indeed, they were, but must not have been raised right. Of course, it could have been because I was so young and they thought I'd be naive enough to fall for it. Older men know better than to imply it.

Originally Posted by AGDee

But, if a man opens my door, I also always reach across and open his for him while he's walking back to his side. That's just thoughtfulness and consideration.

Of course! But with the lavalier opener, it's already open, so I'm sure to give a big Thank You! and pat the seat.

Originally Posted by starang21

who knew etiquette and manners were bad examples?

Very sad, very true. Heartbreaking, really.

[cheerfulgreek]

Originally Posted by DaemonSeid

This came up because the program I was on, the hosts wanted to 'redefine' dating and does it mean more than just who can spend what on the first dates.

Daemon, if you don't mind me asking, what kind of program is it?

Originally Posted by AGDee

But, if a man opens my door, I also always reach across and open his for him while he's walking back to his side. That's just thoughtfulness and consideration.

Yep. I do that too.

[Little32]

Originally Posted by BabyPiNK_FL

But then again, I also don't need fine dining. I'd just as gladly split a salad and and ice cream at Chick-Fil-A or something.

I guess several other folks have made this point too. You don't always have to do something extravagant on a date. There are plenty of fun things to do while dating that won't break (or even tap) the bank.

I agree with Pretty Boy too. I think that folks will find a way to do what they prefer when it comes to dating regardless of the economic situation. If a man prefers to always pay and he is dating a woman that wants to let him, then he will probably continue to pay even if it means going to Ruth Chris's twice a month instead of once a week (and I am certain that there will always men like this who will always be able to find women who love that). As long as it continues to work for them, they will make it work.