Going Dutch!

Dear Michelle Valentine,
I'm really looking forward to meeting this nice guy, Steve, that answered my ad 2 weeks ago. We've talked on the phone a few times, and he wants to meet for coffee. I've been out of the dating scene for a while and I don't know what to do about who pays for what. Do I order separately, and pay my own; let him order and pay for everything; or do I pay because I initiated his call? Please answer my letter as soon as possible!

Sarah, via e-mail

Dear Sarah,
I'm so glad your phone conversations have turned into a "first date" meeting. Going to a coffee shop is an excellent choice, because it's a comfortable, public, quiet atmosphere. And, it's not too costly as compared to going out to dinner. To briefly guide you through your dilemma: 1. Arrive on time. 2. Let him lead you in the order-taking line. 3. Tell the counter person your order before he states his. 4. As he is placing his order, you gesture to locate your wallet. 5. Hopefully, he is a gentleman, and states he will pay for both orders. 6. Have a wonderful time. (P.S. If he doesn't follow #5, then you leave before #6!) Now, had you initiated the meeting, you should expect to "go dutch" (each person pays their own way).

Amore till next week