Our single of the month Hillary Beulah talks about the perils of dating in the District.
By Ursula Lauriston
Hillary Beulah shows off her classic style
Name: Hillary Beulah
Relationship status: Single
Hometown: Washington D.C.
Hillary Beulah comes from a small family. Raised by her single mom, the American University Graduate grew up to be strong-willed and determined – much like her unwavering mother. Hillary’s motto? “Image is everything,” says the 27 year old fashion publicist.
Twenty Something: Why are you single?
Hillary Beulah: I’m determined to stay single. I don’t have a boyfriend and I’m actively trying not to look because it’s just dreadful! You find yourself saying yeah I’ll date that guy but is he what I want? I want a guy who isn’t afraid of me. I need my Barack Obama. Or the Murry to my Deon. I went through a stage where I was just looking for love everywhere.
Now I’m just looking for the real thing.
TS: What is your first date go-to outfit?
HB: It depends on the date. If I know in advance I’ll plan around that.
But normally I like to wear a dress. I feel like the first time you go out as a woman you should wear a dress. If it’s casual I’ll go for denim, a heal, a nice white vintage-t and blazer.
TS: What have your experiences been while dating in NY/DC?
HB: There are so many women and not enough men! And there’s this whole perception that you can buy me a drink and you have me for the rest of the night. There needs to be chivalry and it’s so rare. I had a guy try to take me to Chipotle and then ask me to pay. Or then you have the guy who takes you everywhere and wines and dines you and then just drops off the face of the earth. All my experiences have been EPIC fails.
TS: Have you had any positive experiences?
HB: There have been some rare diamonds in the rough but nothing has yet to stick.
TS: How has being raised by a single mom influenced your relationships?
HB: I saw my mom have relationships with men and witnessed men deal with her personality and her intelligence. So I know it’s possible. I have expectations and I’m definitely demanding. But I’d rather be honest instead of trying to hide who I am.
TS: Do you think you’ve had to hide who you are?
HB: I’ve had to baby step men into my personality because they can’t handle it. I’m not a diva but I think depending on the situation I can be really strong. I work in fashion and in that industry you can’t be shy!
You have to know how to work a room. So for some guys that can be off- putting. I’m looking for a Patrick Swazye to say “nobody puts baby in a corner”!
TS: Open to dating the same sex?
HB: I’m hetero all the way. I like dudes. But I’ve been unsuccessful at finding one.
You’re welcome Twenty Somethings!
Ursula Lauriston is the author of Twenty Something, a social diary blog where she sounds off weekly on dating, D.C nightlife and events, career etiquette, and more. During the day, Ursula stays in step with the pulse of DC with her work as a Deputy Press Secretary on Capitol Hill. Follow me on Twitter.
