I am extremely old fashioned.  It’s the way I have always been, and I think it has to do with my parents raising us to think that men should open doors, let us get out of an elevator first, and pay on outings. 

The question is when should a woman finally pay for a date? 

My thoughts are that a woman should never pay for a date until she is in a committed relationship with a guy.  If she starts going dutch on every outing, will this make the guy not dote on her like he would a woman who doesn’t do this? 

But what if you know that the guy currently doesn’t have the tons of spending money because he has it tied in business endeavors? Should you pay for the occasional date?  For that manner, should I just be dating a woman? 

I have no idea what the right answer is.  Date two, three, four, five, and six…

As the self-proclaimed Research Queen, I began research on what “dating experts” have said should be the answer to this question.  It seems like they say that the first date should be on the guy.  However, after that, a woman should only pay if she initiates the date.  If the guy is struggling with money, then offer to go on cheap dates or cook for him.

Maybe I am too old fashioned.  Maybe I am used to guys who always pick up the tabs.  What if the right guy comes along?  Should I allow this to let me ruin the chance to be with a quality guy who is emotionally available and loves to be around me?  No, I think that it’s time I start changing my viewpoint and pick up the tab once in awhile.  Who knows!  He might be worth it.