The Worst And Best Advice From Dads

Father's Day is Sunday, so Glamour asked readers to list the best and worst dating advice they ever got from their dad.

Worst Dating Advice: Pay Attention to His Name
“When my first boyfriend, whose name was Matt Peter, broke my heart in sixth grade, my dad told me I should never trust a boy with two first names. I’m fairly certain he didn’t have any basis for this proclamation, but I don’t think I ever dated someone without a distinct last name again.”
—Lindsey, 29

Best Dating Advice: Get It On in Private
“In high school, my dad told me not to make out on his porch, where the entire neighborhood could see. So, once my parents were asleep, I brought my date inside to fool around in the finished basement. Fifteen years later and married, I have to say, I’m still not a PDA gal!”
—Amy, 34

Worst Dating Advice: Date a Younger Version of Me
“My dad advised that I stay away from guys with earrings and long hair and those who drive motorcycles. However, I’ve definitely dated a guy or two with earrings. My father preferred to see me with someone a bit more clean-cut because that’s what he is like. And as it turns out, although I’ve dated some bad boys, I am more compatible with guys who are a bit less rough around the edges. Still, I’m glad I explored my options!”
—Rachel, 29

Best Dating Advice: Map Out an Escape Route
“When out on a date, always establish where the exits are in case you need to make a fast getaway. Fortunately, I’ve never had to flee. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t look for a glowing red exit sign upon entering a bar or restaurant.”
—Tanika, 32

Best Dating Advice: Protect Your Heart
“When I started dating, my dad broke the news that all guys are sharks and I am just the bait—they will circle around me and go in for the kill. He said it was my job to protect myself, always be one step ahead, and know when to swim away. I am 31 now, married to a great guy, and have a two-year-old daughter—and, yes, I will tell her all about the sharks one day.”
—Candice, 31

Best Dating Advice: Be Independent First
“My dad told me to be a self-sufficient woman before getting married. I am proud to say I graduated college, accepted a job as an art teacher at a public school in New Jersey—and then let [my husband] put a ring on it.”
—Dana, 31

Best Dating Advice: Date a Gentleman
“When I was 13, my dad took me on my first date. He came to the door, rang the doorbell, and handed me flowers. He said a guy should always come to the door to pick me up for a date. My dad took me to the fancy restaurant...it’s a date I’ll never forget, and it totally set the standards.”
—Regan, 34

Best Dating Advice: Every Kiss Should Mean Something
“When I was in middle school, a friend at my brother’s baseball game asked me if I was going to have my first French kiss. My dad overheard and came running over to the bleachers to announce that I was not even going to [have a] ‘French fry.’ Red-faced, I rethought my first kiss and how I wanted it to be special. I ended up having my first magical kiss well into high school.”
—Bethany, 30

Worst Dating Advice: Don't Be a Baby-Maker
“Before my first date, my dad sat me down and told me that ‘vaginas are like vending machines. Sperm goes in, and a baby comes out.’ OK, I get it, protect yourself, but the advice painted a visual I didn’t need to see. Jeez, Dad!”
—Anna, 23

Best Dating Advice: Don't Be a Lush
“‘Know your limits on drinks and then have one less’ was the best advice my dad ever gave me. It was his way of making sure I was always in control of the date I was on. His advice kept me safe, secure, and, well, from puking in my date’s lap after too many tequila shots.”
—Amanda, 30

Best Dating Advice: Your Brothers Know Best
Christine Coppa (the writer of this story) is a single mom. Her dad advises that she date people her brothers don’t want to punch.

Did your dad give you any great or terrible advice? Send it to us: dorks@2dorks.com

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