DateableDateable
The Dateable blog
Straight answers on dating with clear expectations: first messages, first dates, money, safety and ending things well.
How to apologise after you went silent on a partner
Own the silence in a line or two, skip the excuses, and say clearly whether you want to continue or end it. Scripts for both, and why to expect no reply.
How to apologise to your partner properly, with examples
A real apology names what you did, says how it affected them, and commits to doing differently, with no 'but'. Three scripts for common situations.
How to apply for your first invitation on the Board
Get verified, read the full listing and the host's profile, then send one specific note. Your application shows you understand what they are offering.
Are gifts from a partner taxed in Canada?
Most gifts do not have to be reported or taxed as income in Canada, but income earned from them goes on your tax return.
What to arrange before you host a partner on a trip
Book rooms as agreed, send your partner every booking confirmation and flight detail, plan your itinerary with times and addresses, and confirm the return date.
Checklist: is this arrangement still serving your goals?
Run a six-question checklist every three months. Two or more noes mean it is time to renegotiate or end the arrangement.
Should you agree to an arrangement with someone who is married?
That is your decision. Know before you agree terms: ask directly, expect limits on time and being seen, and decide whether one-way exclusivity suits you.
How to ask a date not to take photos of you
Say it early and lightly before or at the start of the date. A respectful date agrees at once, and if they do not, you know something important.
How to ask a friend to check on you while you date
Ask one trusted friend for specific check-ins: text you Sundays, notice if you stop mentioning your friends, tell you when you cancel plans repeatedly.
How to get a friend to take your dating photos
Pick a friend who makes you laugh, give them a short shot list, have them take many photos at your eye level, and choose the best ones yourself.
How to ask a generous member for mentoring
Name a specific goal and ask for one thing once the arrangement is settled. Mentoring is their choice to offer, so take a no without reading it as a verdict on you.
How to ask a host about the offer before you confirm
The offer on a listing is the host's statement, so ask about anything unclear before you confirm. Example questions and when to ask them.
How to ask a match for a recent photo without offending them
Frame it as your habit, not doubt: say you like to see a recent photo before meeting anyone. Offer a quick video call as an easy alternative and ask only once.
How to ask a match to get verified before you meet
Ask a genuine match to verify before you plan your first date. It is a reasonable ask, and refusal is reason enough not to meet.
Should you ask a partner to study or work less to see you more?
No. Ask for a schedule that fits both your lives. Their priorities came first, and controlling their routine is a warning sign in healthy relationships.
Questions to ask a partner about their limits
Ask about time, privacy, drinking, physical contact and public affection early and plainly. Ask again as the relationship grows.
Words to ask what someone is looking for, with examples
Lines for asking about how often to meet, exclusivity and privacy, with reply lines for each answer you might get back.
How to ask about food and drink before a date, with examples
Ask one simple question about food and drink before you book a restaurant. It takes thirty seconds and saves an awkward moment at the menu.
Messages that ask for a first date, with examples
Real suggestions beat vague ones. Each example names a place, day and time, and gives them the choice. Public, short and easy to say yes to.
How to ask for a second date, with examples
Message the next day with a specific date and place. Reference something from your first meeting and make it easy to say no.
How to ask for a video call before a first date
Suggest a short video call as a normal step before meeting in person. It is a safe, easy way to find out if the connection is real.
How to ask for consent without it feeling awkward
Ask plainly and warmly with short questions like "Is this okay?" or "Can I kiss you?" In NSW and Queensland, the law expects you to check.
Words to ask for more space between dates
Ask for less contact without it sounding like the end. Name what changes and what stays the same so the other person knows where you stand.
Words to ask for more time together without pressure
Ask once, give your reason, make it easy to say no. Scripts for extra dates, weekends away, and standing time.