Some men get so confused around this time every year. They torture and bore the people around them by asking the same questions: Am I obligated to do something for her even if we just started dating? She says that she doesn't care about the holiday, but is this a trick? We never did anything before, so why should I start now?
Pretending that the day does not exist will not make it go away, but there is no reason to panic, either. Valentine's Day is not complicated. Here is some straightforward advice about what you need to do this Valentine's Day. Make dinner reservations now, and make them at Bellini's Restaurant on West Main Street. The plan is foolproof. Here's why:
1. Valentine's Day is not about you, it is about her. Forget the cynical nonsense that you heard about greeting card companies -- equally irrelevant is the historical twaddle about martyrs, saints, cupids, whatever. Valentine's Day means one thing only: It is the one day out of the year that you are obligated to take her out to a nice restaurant. That's it.
2. Red Lobster is not fancy -- not criticizing the place, just pointing out some vital information here. Taking her to any mass-produced-restaurant-in-a-kit may be fine for any other night of the year. Not tonight.
Bellini's is locally owned. Women are impressed that you care about the local economy.
3. Bellini's is the ideal locale for this occassion. It is a restaurant with a romantic concept. Other restaurants may adorn the place with romantic emblems for the sake of the holiday, but please proceed with caution here. Any lack of authenticity can come accross as sleazy. White tablecloths, candles, fresh flowers, soft music ... these details are important, yet they are rarely pulled off authentically.
There is a saying in French that means, Even a goat looks like a lady by candlelight. This saying only applies to men. Women know a goat when they see one.
4. The menu has already been carefully selected for the occassion - and by a real chef. This person does this as his profession. This will eliminate most of the guess work. Yes, there are still choices, but only the right ones.
5. The prices are available for you ahead of time. This allows you to come prepared, but admit that the prices are good. While you are at it, admit that this is one annual obligation that you can live with.
* You may be asking, Why not Table 310, Metropol, A la Lucie, The Grey Goose, Portofino's or some other local spot with a similar purpose? None of these are bad choices. Just make sure that you pick one. Do not make the mistake of asking her, "So what do you want to do?" She could feel uncomfortable. You could come across as unimaginative. More than likely, she will toss the question back at you. Do not ask her again.
* One final note. Warn her in advance that she needs to dress up -- unless you plan on pulling a Pretty Woman on her by taking her shopping for something amazing a couple of hours beforehand. Actually, don't do that. Just tell her ahead of time.
That is the plan. Heed this advice, and you cannot go wrong. Promise.
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