February 15, 2010
- First Date
Dear Mrs. Figgins:
I’m 19 years old and I’m taking a girl out to eat for the first time by myself.
I don’t want to screw up.
Can you give me any tips?
Nicholas, Chambly
Dear Nicholas:
It’s wonderful that you care enough to ask this question.
The best tip I can give you is to develop your skills as a gentleman.
As awkward as it may feel, with practice, acting like a gentleman will become second nature.
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Start by calling it “dinner”. Therefore, you’ve invited a young lady out to dinner, rather than taking her out to eat.
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When you arrive to pick her up for your date, don’t expect her to walk out to your car. Walk to her doorway, then walk together to the car.
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Open the car door for her as she gets into the car, and as she exits the car. Offer your hand to as she exits the car.
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Don’t walk in front of a lady, unless absolutely necessary. Ladies first.
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When you order dinner: Ladies first.
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Pull the chair for her both when she sits or leaves the table.
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Politely stand if she needs to leave the table for any reason. Stand as she returns.
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Be interested in what your date has to say.
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Never chew with your mouth open.
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Don’t rush thru your food. Pace yourself.
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Read my simple instructions for table etiquette. Practice. Practice. Practice.
Show quiet confidence.
You’ll be proud of yourself. (PS: your parents will be proud of you, too)
Mrs. Figgins
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