Little Mrs. Right, so cute and polite, sees you when coming her way. As you sit down beside her, her GPS guides her away from your courtship display.
Few things are worse than a date night gone awry. Courtship – a centuries-old tradition – can be an intimidating, yet rewarding experience. Its triumphs are marked by the thrill of the pursuit, while its failures are memorialized by the agony of rejection. So what’s a gent to do when Cupid’s aim is slight askew?
If your romantic approach could use a boost of octane, consider the following date night recommendations.
1. Many suitors employ the dinner date classic when attempting to woo the perfect mate. If you are prone to counting sheep under the romantic flicker of candlelight, expand your dating arsenal to include more than a simple meal. When deciding on date night activities, Find out what interests Her and make your plans accordingly. Is she athletic, adventurous, a movie buff, or a die-hard romantic? Whatever the case, do your best to solicit her input. Your date night activity should facilitate good conversation, and be successful at keeping boredom at bay.
2. Oftentimes, first impressions “seal the deal.” Even the smallest of details become glaring when illuminated under the romantic spotlight. Your first impression may be the only impression if you appear to be lax with hygiene. An intoxicating waft of body odor may numb or offend your date’s sensibilities; and the triple play of dirty fingernails, dirty teeth, and dirty shoes, will never add up to foreplay. This is why your mother ranted that, “Proper Grooming is Essential.” Taking pride in your appearance will always have an impact on your dating successes; therefore, be kind – be courteous – be clean!
3. Schedule date night activities well in advance to ensure that you will Be Punctual. Arriving late without a reasonable explanation, or cancelling plans on a whim or moment’s notice, is nothing less than R-U-D-E. Should something unexpected arise, give your date the courtesy and respect of timely communication. Emergencies can hardly be avoided, but dater’s remorse isn’t one of them.
4. Create a sense of enchantment with some good Old-fashioned Courtship. Bring a smile to her face with a thoughtful gift, or a sincere and observant compliment. Make no demands; harbor no expectations; just treat her like a Lady.
5. As an extension of old-fashioned courtship, Chivalry is here to Stay. The fact that your date is a contemporary woman, with an education, career, and political views of her own, will have no bearing on her ability to appreciate a prince. Every gal likes to be doted upon now and again; so open the door (car doors, restaurant doors, Jim Morrison Doors, or any door at all), and remember to pull out her chair.
6. Women are peculiar creatures. If this was the theme for your college dissertation, you truly are not alone. Without a doubt, the female population has a monopoly on the gift of gab. Although your date will help guide the topic of conversation, do realize that your participation is helpful. If verbal expression is not your forte, don’t allow nervousness to get the best of you. Keep the conversation moving at a reasonable pace, and if trying your hand at humor, keep it light and free of vulgarity. Actively Listen to what she has to say by asking relevant and intelligent questions. On the other hand, be aware that mindless chatter is like empty calories – both should be avoided. Suppress the urge to be a “Rambling Rambo,” and at no time is it acceptable to recant stories about your ex!
7. Something about you has sparked her curiosity, compelling her to investigate further. Feel free to Be Yourself (within reason), but do leave your Bad Boy or Don Juan persona at home. Who you are, what makes you unique, and what you have to offer, are all things your date will seek to discover. While you needn’t reveal your innermost secrets, do present a relaxed and approachable demeanor.
8. The modern woman is independent. This is not a proclamation, but an ever-present truth. While equality is the order of the day, a sophisticated gentleman always has the means to pay for his date. Do be prepared to, as well as, offer to pay for the evening. If she insists on splitting the bill fifty-fifty, there is no harm in accommodating her request. However, you mustn’t assume that this will always be the case; otherwise going Dutch may equal a Doozy.
9. As the evening progresses and you wish to express your romantic interest, remember to be Affectionate when Appropriate. Unsolicited groping is reminiscent of the adolescent, and most certainly will not be appreciated. Engaging in such behavior is a poor reflection of one’s character, not to mention the potential liabilities. Avoid any uncertainty by being observant throughout the evening. Body language (The Language of Love) is universal, and romantic chemistry is undeniable. A true gentleman knows whether to end the evening with a lukewarm handshake, a friendly embrace, or a gentle and passionate kiss.
10. Whether your date is arranged, prearranged, deranged, or a blind one, do your best to Dump with Dignity when round two is an unconscionable suggestion. If this is your predicament, avoid the following statements when closing out the evening: 1) I’ll give you a call. 2) We’ll chat soon. 3) I’ll text you some time. For the hopeful, each statement implies that there will be an impending communication between the two of you. To the contrary, if you wish to see her again, do make your intentions known.
Navigating the sea of love can be a turbulent, but worthy adventure. Mrs. Right is on the horizon, and if she’s truly right she’ll stay. Leave her feeling charmed, romantically disarmed, and looking forward to future dates with you – the Captain of the Courtship.
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