You browsed Ukrainian matrimonial ads, sent the first message, and it happened – you have a date for coffee or dinner. At this moment, many men make a mistake, assuming that dating Ukrainian women looks the same as dating British women. Although we are culturally close, there are significant differences in male-female matters. One false move can ruin your chances.
In the UK, "going Dutch" (splitting the bill) is very common. However, if you are going on a date with a Ukrainian woman, forget about this idea completely. In Eastern culture, the man is the provider and the gentleman.
If the waiter comes and you start calculating how much she ate – that will be your last meeting. Single Ukrainian women are not looking for a sponsor (as we wrote in the article: Are Ukrainian women faithful?), but the gesture of paying for coffee or dinner is a signal to them: "I am resourceful, you can rely on me". It's a matter of respect, not money.
Rule 2: Flowers – a secret weapon, but beware!
For modern Western women, flowers can sometimes be seen as old-fashioned. For Ukrainians? An absolute essential. Bringing flowers to the first meeting (even a single rose) gives you huge points at the start.
Important note: Always buy an ODD number of flowers (1, 3, 5). In Ukraine, an even number of flowers (2, 4, 6) is reserved exclusively for funerals. This is a mistake that beautiful Ukrainian women might not forgive you, as they consider it bad luck.
Rule 3: Appearance matters. Don't go overly casual
Ukrainian women are famous for spending hours getting ready for dates. Makeup, hair, dress – they want to charm you. If you turn up in a tracksuit or dirty trainers, you show a lack of respect. You don't have to wear a suit, but a "smart casual" style (shirt, clean shoes, groomed hands) is mandatory. Remember that Ukrainian women in the UK often pay attention to details that we men might miss.
Rule 4: What to talk about and what to avoid?
During dates with Ukrainian women, it is worth showing interest in her culture, but avoid heavy political topics unless she starts them herself. Many of them have difficult experiences related to the situation in their homeland.
Instead, ask:
- How is she finding life in the UK?
- What are her passions and dreams?
- Tell her about your family (this builds trust).
Avoid complaining. British people love a bit of a moan about the weather or work, but women from the East are looking for optimism and support, not someone who constantly complains.
Critical Error: Where are you looking for candidates?
Often the success of a date depends not on how you behave, but WHO you invite. If you respond to suspicious ads on free portals with only model photos, you may run into a scammer.
To ensure the date is safe and leads to a lasting relationship, use proven sources. We mentioned this in our guide How to meet single Ukrainian women?.
Rule 5: Old School Gentleman
What might be called "old-fashioned" in the UK is standard in Ukraine. Opening the car door, pulling out a chair, helping with a coat – these gestures act like a magnet on Ukrainian women looking for men. They long for masculinity in the traditional sense. Be chivalrous, and you will see how quickly the ice breaks.
Summary
Dating a Ukrainian woman is a wonderful adventure that can turn into a lifelong marriage. All it takes is a bit of tact, knowledge of cultural differences, and... good manners. If you follow these 5 rules, your chances of a second date increase drastically. Good luck!