Small Doses: Dating in 2023

By Kelsei Brianna

Quick question, would you go on a date at Cheesecake Factory? Personally, I would. Currently, there is a twitter debate on where most women will not accept a first date at. This discourse stemmed from a TikToker by the name of @moniquelsantos09 who refused to leave the car because her date brought her to Cheesecake Factory. What is wrong with Cheesecake Factory y'all? In 2023, it is difficult as it is to find someone who does not consider their apartment a first date. While I do understand having standards and not lowering them, you will be waiting forever if you do not give SOMEONE a chance. I am not saying to settle but if we continue to judge people from their tax bracket or career then where would that leave us? Single and judgmental.

I have also realized that social media plays a negative role in dating. Many older generation Z'ers are influenced by celebrities and "Instagram famous couples." While there are some couples who can be looked at as "goals." No one is perfect and what we see through social media is all we see. Also, seeing influencers who are wealthy - because we make them by following - going on expensive and out-of-the-country trips as a date. I do not know about y'all, but I am a regular college student, I do not expect my (nonexistent) boyfriend to afford anything like that. Instagram couple influencers hurt us and social media as well. People cannot form their own opinion about their relationship without referring to social media or their followers. Thinking that we HAVE to have our significant other as our lock screens, we HAVE to share location with our significant other, or we HAVE to share passwords to social media. Like, give your partner some personal space. Be their peace. I am all for the jokes like "ruin his day at 8AM sharp," but once y'all ACTUALLY start doing that and consistently at that it done went too far. Let the joke stay a joke.

Simply put, I would appreciate any gesture someone does for me. It is the thought that truly counts. I know that most of our generation yearn for the biggest and best treatment from our significant others. But sometimes dedication, loyalty, and communication are all we really need. Whether it is a small Halloween "boo-bucket" or dinner at a steakhouse. I would appreciate the time spent with the person rather than focusing on the cost of the date. First dates can be so simple, I do not expect someone to go all out for me on a first date. Let's just talk we (probably) do not even know each other that well.

So, reader, what do you think? Would you go on a first date to Cheesecake Factory? Why or why not?