Today's relationships aren't how they were in the past. There isn't really "dating" anymore. After one date you can start calling the other your boyfriend or girlfriend. If you are the boyfriend it is assumed that you will pay for everything because that is what previous generations have done. Here is the thing, I can and will pay for myself.
This has nothing to do with me wanting to be an equal or with feminism and not needing someone to take care of me. It has to do with being independent and being responsible for myself. I feel that once you become someones financial responsibility you constantly owe them something just because they buy you expensive things or take you out to nice dinners.
I'm not saying don't let them pay for anything but when you can, split the costs. For example, if you are doing movie and dinner, one of you pay for dinner and the other for the movie. Especially when it comes to anniversaries since those are supposed to be about the two of you feeling special not just one of you.
Ladies, it's also okay to treat him sometimes too. There is no rule saying you can't pay. Your significant other will appreciate this. It can be a lot of pressure to be the person to pay all the time and when you both pay for things it can relieve stress off the relationship.
Every relationship is about balance. It's about a give and take, not always about being equal. The same should be considered when supporting each other whether it is emotionally or financially. It's not just one persons responsibility, so why should only one of you pay?