Dating ettiquett in Canada

**Byzantine Prince** · 04-03-2005, 02:55

Hi, this is for Canadians but others can post too. Ok my problem for today is who pays on a date. The guy, the girl(lol), or each for their own? That's one of the hardest questions I think. Also how do you know if the girl wants to pay for her own? Maybe she get's offended when you start being all posesive.

**Papewaio** · 04-03-2005, 02:58

They say they want to be treated equal but at the end of the day they like a guy who can look after them and the potential brood.

**Cygnus X-1** · 04-03-2005, 03:00

Hahah, there's a simple answer my friend:

ASK HER!

If you don't mind paying for the date, bring enough money to do so. Then, when it comes to paying for whatever meal/service/whatever you have to pay for, ask her how you want to do this. Express that you've got no problem paying for her, as you've brought enough anyway.

This way, you retain your 'gentleman' points, and she doesn't feel like she's trapped in the 50s.

**Byzantine Prince** · 04-03-2005, 03:08

Well asking is kind awkward isn't it? How is the best way to phrase it?

**Togakure** · 04-03-2005, 03:43

Well it kind of depends on the setting and the nature of your relationship up to that point, but how 'bout:

"I've really enjoyed your company tonight. May I have the honor of covering the expenses for this fine evening?"

Eye contact, a smile, and tone of voice are important. Depending on how far along the two of you are, a soft well-timed touch on the hand can work wonders.

This would be ridiculous if you just had burgers after a uni football game, but I think you know what I mean. There really isn't one or a few "right" ways. I think the important thing is to be genuine and that the desire to pay be because you want to show your appreciation for her time and company--not to prove how cool or financially capable you are.

**Byzantine Prince** · 04-03-2005, 03:49

Yes that's exactly it. I don't want to seem all "I'm cool with it". BUT this is the first date so I don't want it to be weird. It would be pretty awkward to say how would like to pay. Or how do we cover the expenses. Oh whatever I'll just pay it's not that much anyways. It would probably only like 9 dollars. Big deal. I just hope she likes me.

**Togakure** · 04-03-2005, 04:16

Something I've done in the past is pay beforehand. After being seated, I'd ask to be excused for a moment so I could wash my hands, give my credit card to the hostess, and ask her to have the bill charged to it and to add x% gratuity. I pick up the card on our way out. Never been a problem.

If she's not happy about you paying, then you have a slight problem. If you're a charmer, you can always smile and say, "well, how bout you get the next one?" If she agrees then you're doin' good. If not, well, no point in fighting about it--let her do what she wants. A restaurant should have no problems accommodating changes.

Be yourself, demonstrate that you enjoy her company, and have fun. Do what you can to make her laugh and feel special! Good luck.

Oh, and don't tell her she dances fine for a white girl.

**ichi** · 04-03-2005, 04:24

Cygnus is right.

When time comes to pay bust out with the cash (or beaver pelts, which is what I understand Canadians use for currency) smoothly and look her in the eyes and say 'is it OK if I take you out tonite?'.

Make it so that she knows that you would like to pick up the tab, but that you want to make sure she is alright with that.

Don't let it seem like you don't know what to do.

Mrs ichi stopped by and read the thread and she said she agreed with TO .

ichi