No matter where you meet, going on — and sometimes even thinking about — that first date can be nerve-racking. Here are 6 essential first date tips that will get things off to a great start.
It’s all about location
- The key here is for both of you is to be comfortable! Men and women like different things, but it’s easy to find a common ground — concerts, sporting events and comedy clubs are great places to start.
- Think simple. A first date that’s complicated or multi-part leaves room for too many things to go wrong!
- Get back to your younger roots. Activities like rollerskating, iceskating, go-karting, bowling and miniature golf are fun and help to break the ice.
- Check out these 10 great first date ideas.
Look (and smell) great
This one might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at what some people forget to do.
- Be neatly groomed. Brush your hair and teeth, trim your beard… you know the drill!
- Wear deodorant. Trust me, I’d love to not have to include this tip.
- Don’t overdo the perfume or cologne. You don’t want to overwhelm your date. And keep in mind: Some people have allergies to certain sprays.
- Dress appropriately for the date — and beyond the first one! If you’re going to a baseball game, don’t dress formally — jeans are your friend. It goes both ways, so make sure you don’t overdress or underdress. You might want to show off, but you’ll end up looking like a fool.
- Dressing sexy doesn’t always mean dressing seductively.
Getting physical
There really is no right or wrong here, but keep a few things in mind:
- Stick to your principles.
- A kiss at the end of your first date is appropriate as long as it feels right.
- If you’re looking for a long-term relationship, no sex on the first date. This complicates things, seriously — respect yourself and you’ll be respected. Ideally, no sex until monogamy so you can build a real relationship.
- If you’re looking for casual sex, then you know when it’s right. Be safe!
Leave history in the past
- No ex talk. Your date doesn’t want to picture you with someone else. This tip definitely goes beyond the first date.
- Keep the baggage to yourself and the skeletons in your closet.
Don’t drink too much
- You need your wits, so keep them about you.
- A drunk, slurring date isn’t hot.
- A two-drink maximum is a good goal. It’ll take the edge off, but you’ll still be able to keep focus.
Be honest and positive
- Be real!
- At the end of the date, don’t say you’ll call if you’re not going to.
- Everyone likes to know where they stand, so if you had a great time — say so!
[Image via Natalie Dee]
