Even though modern life is a lot more convenient in many ways, there is something to be said about the dating culture of the good ol’ days. People went the extra mile to make their dates feel special—and time, attention, and effort were expected in order to do so. There were fewer miscommunications and mind games with the lack of smartphones and social media. People truly got to know each other, which made the time so much more meaningful! Here are some ways we can still keep that magic alive.
Ask someone out in person
Remember when you had to face someone in person to ask them out on a date; fear of rejection and all? While now you can simply match with someone on a dating app or connect via text, it makes things more personal and more special if you take the extra effort and courage to ask them out in person.
Dress to the nines
Since casual dating is a lot more popular now, people have begun to tone down their dress as well. Back then, people would dress up in their Sunday best for a date, making the whole thing feel more romantic and novel. You don’t have to whip out your prom dress, but putting in some extra effort (on both parts) can make the whole ordeal feel a lot more date-like.
Pick them up
If your date is comfortable with it, go ahead and pick them up! It looks classy, and it gives you two a bit of private time to get to know each other before you enter a public space.
Knock on their door
Instead of texting, calling, or even honking from inside the car, people used to walk up to the front of their date’s house and knock on the door, even if it meant facing his or her parents! This romantic gesture takes just a minute or two and will leave your date swooning.
Show up with a gift
Maybe no one does it anymore, but remember when we used to bring a small gift such as flowers or candy to a first date? It is such a sweet gesture, and who doesn’t love flowers or candy?
Have a plan
There is something to be said about making a reservation ahead of time and surprising your date with a romantic dinner. It shows care, thoughtfulness, and organization without coming off as too committed or intimate.
Open the door for each other
Whether it be the car door or the door to the restaurant, opening a door for your date is a sweet and unexpected gesture these days. Now, we’re not saying you have to follow gender roles. Ladies can be chivalrous too!
Turn off the cellphone
In the good old days, no one would ever whip out a book or newspaper on a special date, so don’t scroll through the phone! Let your friends know beforehand about the date so you can feel comfortable turning it off for an hour or two. People used to truly appreciate each other’s company and we don’t have to give that up!
Goodnight kiss
With the onset of hookup culture, a good first date usually ends in the bedroom. There is nothing wrong with that, and we’re not here to parent you. That being said, a goodnight kiss can be just as passionate and will leave your date wanting more (second date!).
Call to follow up
When’s the last time you actually called someone? Calling a date up to thank them for the night or just to chat is more intimate than texting and can help you to avoid any miscommunications. Plus, it shows you’re thinking about them, even after the date!
Sources:
http://www.lifebuzz.com/old-fashioned-dating/
https://www.bustle.com/p/15-old-fashioned-dating-rituals-we-should-consider-bringing-back-31775
