Monday, February 6, 2012
I don't know of anyone who hasn't had one Valentine's Day with no plans, no significant other, and nowhere to turn for commiseration.
In Australia, they have big parties all over the country for such people. And there is no stigma attached to being single on the big V-day. Here, it's another story. No one wants to admit they are single, let alone turn up at some party with no date, just adding to the whispers, "Did you see that loser over there without a date?" But honestly, I was that loser for many years before I met my husband. And really, I don't think people are actually thinking that...because most of them are in the same boat!
What if you find yourself with no date and no plans on Feb. 14? The worst thing you can do is run out and find a date off the street! Valentine's Day is not the time you want to deal with first date jitters anyway. There's too much expectation, and then there is always the dilemma of whether or not to bring a gift to someone you barely know.
So, forget about snagging a date last minute. Instead, get together with all your other single friends and have a great night out. Find a place where you won't be surrounded by couples. Try the bowling alley, hit karaoke night at a neighborhood pub, or just go to the movies (try to avoid romantic comedies.)
And honestly, once you become a couple, Valentine's Day really is no big deal anyway. My husband and I exchange the customary flowers and candy, and we do go out to dinner...just not on February 14th. We don't like the crowds or the prefixed menus. Instead we're probably watching TV or paying bills. So much for romance!
The best thing to do is, treat this day like any other. It is a Hallmark holiday. Great for couples in their first six months of dating. But for everyone else, let's start planning for Halloween, the really fun holiday!
Etiquette expert and life coach, Marie Dubuque is the author of six books, including "Witty Comebacks for Idiotic Insults" and "First Date Etiquette." She is also the host of a popular YouTube Channel, www.youtube.com/mannersbymarie