Dating diaries
Jovan St G. Legister,Youthlink Writer

Whether the reason behind it is to make the relationship official, to celebrate a special occasion or just an impulsive response to some tingling feeling, a romantic date can seal the deal any day of the week. The dinner and candlelight setting make it conducive to expressing all of what you are feeling for that special someone. This week, 17-year-old Amanda shares her experience.

"It was my 17th birthday and my boyfriend was going to take me out so he said I should wear something nice. It was going to be a surprise and I was so anxious that it took me about three hours to get dressed. By eight in the evening he drove up to my gate. In the car we kissed, he wished me a happy birthday and held my hand throughout the whole ride.

When we arrived, I realised that we were at The Hilton and I was so excited 'cause I had never had dinner there before (smiling). He said I should walk in front of him as he held my hands, 'cause my dress was short and he didn't want any other guy looking at his girl (laughing).

We got seated pretty fast and I had lobster and a cocktail as the main course. It was so romantic, mostly because of the setting. We ate and left about two hours later, and he took me home with him and we had such a great time. It was my best birthday ever although I got home the next morning and Mommy was giving me the eye (laughing)."

- Amanda, 17

What's hot about a romantic date:

• It helps you decide what type of spouse you'll be looking for in the future.
• It is one of the best ways to let him/her know what you are really feeling.
• It helps you to learn to consider the feelings of others.
• It is more intimate than other types of dates and it facilitates a closer feeling of connection between the two.

What can dim your candlelight:

• Romance comes at a price, literally, and it is usually the guys who feel it. Saving for that date sounds like a good idea.
• Feelings of trepidation that go hand in hand with trying to end a date turned disaster.
• The thought of unrequited love after you've gone that extra mile. Though heartbreaking, it is always possible.