By the time you make it to dinner, you should be past the first-date jitters. Beyond talking in low voices and looking at each other over a romantic dinner, there is nothing romantic about trying to decide how to split the bill on your first date. The very fact conjures up anything but romance and flowers.
If you feel comfortable enough, you can approach the subject before you order. Let your date know that you would like to split the bill. In today's society, gender roles have changed such that a man shouldn't feel that he has to pay for everything, and a woman shouldn't be shy if she feels she would like to help cover the date.
However, some dates may be offended if you ask or offer to split the bill and will insist on covering the tab. In this case, you can either allow them to cover the entire bill or say something to the effect that you will buy the drinks. You can also let them pay the bill, but tell them that you have the bill on the next date. If you are doing more than just dinner, offer to pay for whatever comes next; be it movies or even a round of miniature golf. This way your date isn't stuck shelling out for the entire evening.
Traditionally speaking, though, whoever asks for the date is the one who should pay for the bill. However, as dating rules have changed and more and more people meet each other through nontraditional methods, such as online dating and chat rooms, it's easy to see how it could be hard to decipher who initiated the relationship. Therefore, you can expect to loosen up the rules of dating when it comes to splitting the bill and asking to go Dutch on a first date.
 | Whether or not you like the person you're with, you want to end a first date in a way that signals your feelings about the person. You don't need to hold up a sign saying "Call Me" or "Get Lost." Instead, these first date tips provide several options for ending a first date that will allow you a smooth exit, no matter the situation. |
 | There's no recipe for a perfect first date. However, learning how to act on a first date can result in a success rather than a flop. Luckily, you learned everything you need to know about how to behave on a first date in kindergarten. |
 | Knowing how to read body language will help you figure out whether a particular first date is a smash hit or a dating dud. |
 | Navigating first date conversations is similar to navigating a minefield. Learn how to nip any potential awkward date-enders in the bud. |
The second date is arguably more important the first. Be sure to choose the right location and activity. |
