Angela Philipps, Contributor

As single gals, what should we expect from a first date? Are we thinking that the guy ought to surprise us with the most expensive and glamorous dinner money can buy? Would we be appalled if he were to take us to a fast-food restaurant?

I recently received an email from one of my readers. He complained that women are not satisfied when he takes them to a movie at Carib, and then to Mother's for dinner afterwards. Obviously, his bank balance does not allow him to offer more than this, but why should this matter when it comes to affairs of the heart?

Indeed, he has a point, to a certain extent. His company should be all that concerns these ladies, not his choice of venue. However, I can't imagine that I'd be all that impressed if I was taken to a patty and burger joint on a first date. Frankly, I'd rather share a hot dog, popcorn and a coke at the movies, and then have him walk or drive me home. Forget dinner! I had a nice time, thank you very much, and a little stroll from the cinema allows us to chat and get to know one another.

A little romance

Why should a fast-food restaurant not be appropriate? Listen here, fellows, women like a little romance. The fast-food business is not particularly concerned with encouraging couples to stop over for two- or three-hour 'wine and dine' sessions. Hence, the term 'fast food'.

At meal times, these places are crowded and noisy. We want to be somewhere quiet. We'd like to be able to talk to you uninterrupted by shouts of "Two, six, nine. Number two, six, nine," etcetera. I understand that not everyone's pay check can afford a $2,000, let alone $6,000, bill, but why not prepare a picnic of sandwiches and fruit, and take the lovely lady to a pretty little spot down at the harbour?

This gesture is thoughtful, unexpected, and won't cost you your week's wage.

But ladies, I have something to say to you, too. Don't be so harsh on guys. There is incredible pressure on them already ... plucking up the courage to ask you out, coming up with a first date plan which will make you happy, and then weighing up how much he is able to afford. Give them a chance to show you who they really are. If a man is sweet, gentle and kind to you, then assume that he is doing his best.

Would you rather go to the most exclusive restaurant in town and be treated with disdain? I don't believe so. I am not saying that a rich man won't dote on you and care for you. I'm just trying to make you see that his wealth does not mean that you'll have a good life with him. Believe it or not, no amount of money will keep you fulfilled if you don't have love. And if you share affection with someone special, you can make it through financial crises. It doesn't matter how full your pocket is when your heart and soul are left empty.

Your time is what matters

And so, it leaves the man with the conundrum of what a woman believes the perfect first date ought to entail. If 'dollars nah run', then buying a girl's dinner shouldn't even play a part in the problem. Your time is what matters. Your honesty is what counts. Tell her that you work hard, but don't have much money.

Let her know that you can give her the hours but not the cash. And if it's really important to you that you are able to take her for a meal, then look around for somewhere that won't send you into bankruptcy. You don't have to take her to Mac's Chophouse, but please don't choose Mother's either. Perhaps you should be looking around for somewhere in between.

angelaphilippsja@hotmail.com