In high school, I could not leave for a date until the guy came to the door to meet my father. My father always squeezed his hand too hard and told him what time to have me home. Something’s happened between then and now.
Girls lament they don’t “date” anymore, meaning the guy asks you to dinner, comes to pick you up, pays the tab and recognizes that paying the tab equals nothing but your company. I feel bad for them. I feel bad that they don’t get that butterflies in the tummy feeling while getting ready, acting like they’re not quite ready when the doorbell rings so someone else has to answer and having a dad, or mom, there to remind errant boys who’s boss.
Boys, boys, boys. I even hear you wear a dress shirt un-tucked to a nice place. Whaaa? I know. Head shake. So I checked for gentlemanly notes for the guys. Happy to share. Remember boys, there’s a reason men like Don Draper have women falling at their feet. It’s not just the suit. But that helps.
You’ll get used to the change and the ladies will suddenly become irresistible to your charms. You’re welcome.
According to The Gentlemen’s Guide:
Good manners will open doors that even the best pick up lines cannot.
A gentleman attracts the attention of many, but only has eyes for his own lady.
Text her something sweet while she’s sleeping so in the morning she will wake up with a smile on her face.
If you like her, tell her. If you miss her, show her. If you love her, prove it.
A man’s biggest mistake is giving another man the opportunity to make his woman smile.
Only say you’re going to call her if you’re actually going to call her.
Always compliment her on a date. She spent a lot of time looking good for you.
She will never take you seriously if you flirt with every girl.
Shake hands like you mean it. Always stand.
Being male is a matter of birth. Being a man is a matter of age. Being a gentleman is a matter of choice.
Baggy pants were never cool and will never be.
Never be late for a date.
Being a gentlemen is a lifestyle. You must live it, not just simply act like one when needed.
Women find confidence sexy as hell.
Rise when a lady stands up from the table.
Never wear a clip on tie but do, please, wear a tie
Nothing looks more badass than a well-tailored suit.
And some more, from a mom’s point of view:
Open the car door for her.
Iron your shirt.
Be nice to her dad. It won’t be long before you are one and know how he feels.
The Duchess Diaries 