Gluten Free On A Date

[simwalrus64]

Hey guys,

Somewhat of a teenage-celiac problem here. I was just set up to go to a fraternity formal this week, most of which involves a sit down dinner. I just met the guy I was set up to go with, so would it sound annoying to bring up my celiac ahead of time, since we just met and I don't want to sound picky? I know the answer should feel obvious, "Tell him ahead of time!" but I don't want to make a big deal out of anything, and I'd honestly just feel more comfortable/safe eating ahead of time. Any advice on how to deal with this?

Thanks!

~Ashlyn

[JNBunnie1]

I think I would mention it to my date, and ask him if he has any contact info for the people catering/providing the food. Kinda, "Hey, I have Celiac, I'm gluten free. Do you know who's making the food for the formal, I want to call and see if they can make me food." If you treat the subject as if you assume he understands already and that it's not a big deal, then he'll be aware, and he'll know you're taking care of your own problems. At the very least, I would explain it to him beforehand, because it would probably make him uncomfortable/concerned to see you not eating at a sitdown dinner.

[kareng]

If you are the girl going with my son this weekend, definitely tell him. He knows all about Celiac. And I hope he behaves himself! In high school, there was a girl that would go to the school dances and not eat at the restauraunts. The boys thought she was anorexic and it turned them off. When she finally told them why she didn't eat and that she could eat at PF Changs, they all understood & went there.

Really, tell your date like Bunny suggested. He probably has heard about this before.

[heatherjane]

I agree with what the others have said. I am single and have learned over the past few years that if a guy is truly worthy of your respect and is good relationship material, that he will do what he can to accomodate. You would do right by the guy to give him a heads-up at least. How he reacts will indicate what kind of person he is.