So, you’ve mustered up the courage to ask that cutie across the street on a date, I’m so proud of you. First dates can be tricky; you want to make a good impression, while also testing your compatibility as a couple. Good first dates often come down to three important factors: where you go, what you do, and who you’re with. There’s no set formula for success, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have a few all-important tips for you. Without further ado, here are 5 ways to help you do your first date right.
Grab a coffee and go for a walk
It’s easy to get caught up in planning the “perfect first date,” but sometimes, the best plan is to take it back to basics. Pick your favorite coffee shop, get your drink to go, and take a walk in the nearby park. The simplicity of this date is perfect, especially since you have nothing to do but talk, goof around, and get to know each other.
Share somewhere personal
The best way to get to know each other is to take your date somewhere that means something to you. Share your favorite vintage record shop, spot by the lake, or quirky coffee shop. Have fun with it and show them something you’re passionate about; passion and joy are infectious, and there’s no better way to get to know each other and quell first date jitters.
Have a laugh: Do something you’re both terrible at
On first dates you tend to want to put your best foot forward, but what if you didn’t? Being able to laugh at yourself and embrace your faults is attractive, and there’s no better way to do that than by doing something you’re both terrible at. Whether it’s something completely new, or something you’re just straight up bad at, this date allows you to talk, goof around, and embrace the awkward. You won’t have to worry about your date laughing at you if you’re laughing too, we promise.
Change it up
Over time first dates can become a bit routine, making that fifteenth cup of Starbucks coffee kind of boring. It’s easy to go on the same first date over and over, so add a whole new dimension by changing it up. Do something unique that utilizes your talents and really brings your personality to the table. If you’re set on dinner, then get each course at a different restaurant, or go on a quest to find the cities best food truck. By injecting your personality into the date you’ll have a unique evening that’s full of surprises.
Be yourself and own it
Ultimately, the only thing that matters is that you be yourself. If you can’t relax and be comfortable around your date, then how are you supposed to have fun and connect? No number of tips and tricks can force a genuine connection. Own who you are, quirks and all, and take it one moment at a time. In the words of Ru Paul: “If you can’t love yourself, then how the hell are you gonna love somebody else?”
Each go at love is always a bit different, but we’re all searching for our own happy ending, so remember to be kind always. We hope your first date with that cutie across the street goes swimmingly, and we’d love to hear how it went in the comments section. Don’t forget to be yourself, get personal, and share your go-to first date tip with us.
Photo by Jared Sluyter on Unsplash
