From Boys to Men: A Valentine’s Date
By Justin Weller, Writer
February 12, 2010
Filed under Fun Stuff
For those of you men out there who have a significant other, or for those of you who are interested in a lucky young lady, Valentine’s day maybe an opportune moment to get to know them or to spend some quality time with them. Although I am a bigger advocate of spending quality time regardless of the holiday seasons, most people may use this day as a better “reason” to try to get a date. For those of you men who are taking your lady out to a date, here are some suggestions that may bring out the old-fashioned gentleman in you.
First of all, if you are getting a gift, keep it simple and meaningful. I personally never have a clue what to get, but I make sure that if I get a card, I fill it in with my thoughts and feelings. Also, this will show that you were thinking of her, and it is perfect for the girl who claims that “she doesn’t want anything.” And girls will always appreciate something that came from the heart, assuming she is not severely materialistic.
Now for the rest of the night. The first thing you want to pay attention to is the inside of your car. If you usually keep it a little messy, then clean it out and vacuum. You may think she won’t notice, but she will take note. It’s the little gestures like those that show you care.
The next step is to shower and shave. Don’t use an electric razor. If you don’t have anything else, then I suggest investing in a regular razor. Your shave will be noticeably closer, and you don’t want to be scratchy when/if you get a kiss. Don’t forget to put on deodorant and take care of your dental hygiene.
Dress business casual or wear some nice jeans and something with a collar. If you put in more effort to dress up for a club than you would for a date, then I believe your priorities may need some checking.
Throughout the night, keep the car stereo down when driving and actually talk to her. Open every door you can for her, including car doors. Pick a restaurant that is relatively quiet. That means not a place like Applebee’s or Outback Steakhouse. Remember that the point is to spend time with her, so you will be doing a lot of talking and hopefully twice as much listening. Also, when you are at the restaurant, turn off your cell phone. Trust me, unless you’re a doctor on call, nothing is going to be that urgent.
If it isn’t obvious to you, pick up the tab and make sure you tip. I’m not saying tip big to make it seem like you have cash; it’s just the right thing to do. If the service was bad, then simply leave a 10% tip. They have to make a living too.
Now, if you performed all those things, then you should be in the green. If you are already dating, then your partner will appreciate the time you spent with them and will hopefully “feel the love” again. If you just took out someone you wished was a girlfriend, well, if she agreed to go out with you in the first place, this date would surely put you on the right track.



