GOING OUT: How to behave on a date

By Jackie Nalubwama

Dating in some ways is a political affair. At the beginning of a relationship, the couple put their best foot forward with good manners that demand of them to even laugh at unfunny jokes. As time goes by, the jokes stop being as funny as they were in the beginning, and the masks start falling off.

For that matter, when you are out on a date this Valentine’s, you have to be mindful of what stage you are at in the relationship so as to conduct yourself appropriately, says fashion columnist Keturah Kamugasa. “The status of your relationship determines your etiquette on a date.”

If it is the first date, she advises the woman to avoid bareback or dresses with low cleavage lines. “If you wear a low cleavage dress, it will seem as if you are selling yourself.”

However, if for ladies in long term relationships, dresses that accentuate their curves would be a plus. “You can also wear a colour he likes that looks good on you,” she says.

To wives, Kamugasa says low-cut necklines are fi ne if that is what the husband likes.

“On Valentine’s, you are supposed to present yourself in the best way possible in terms of dress and body language,” she says. When it comes to table manners, Kamugasa has no kind words for those who slurp or speak with food in their mouths.

“People should not drink wine as if it is juice,” she says.

“They should sip it slowly.” She castigates those who enthusiastically gulp down wine or slurp (the sound some people make when taking a sip).

To Kamugasa, there isn’t any conceivable excuse for bad table manners, not even claims such as, “Banange I love wine.”

Val Okecho, a Capital FM presenter, says the couple should keep their phones away.

“Facebooking, whatsapping, tweeting or taking several calls distracts your date, is annoying and interrupts the connection.

It shows that you clearly disrespect your date.”

Okecho also says that it is imperative for the guy to pick his date on time and drop her home at the end of night.

“Don’t ask her to take a boda as you drive off,” he says, adding,

“If you are late be open and honest about why you didn’t make it on time.” Okecho adds: “False impressions come crashing down on you later. For instance, ordering for food or drinks that you are not used to or which you can’t afford. Budget within your means to avoid embarrassment.”

Conversation during your date should be appropriate and light-hearted, full of fun and laughter.

“Not too serious, not office talk or the kids and no bragging.

That conversation should focus on the two of you and getting to know each other.”
Good manners dictate that a gentleman should pay the bill; however, if you are married, Okecho says you can split the bill. “Depends on what stage of the relationship you are at.”

Above all, Okecho says you should have one date on Valentine’s.
“Do not have more than one Valentine, unless of course it is family.”

He also notes that before the date, one should make sure you have made plans for your date and let her know in time because she make other plans.

Quick tips

Give your date your undivided attention.

Put your cell phone on silent, or even better turn it off.

Thank the other person for whatever gift he or she offers. If you are disappointed, try not to let it show.

Practice good table manners. You want the other person to think romantic thoughts, not be repulsed.

Never break up on Valentine’s Day. Even if you never want to see the other person again, there’s no point in ruining his or her future romantic adventures.

From www.etiquette.about.com

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