When you think of a first date, what comes to mind? Many will say “dinner and drinks” or just “dinner,” which sometimes can involve splitting a bottle of wine. Now, what if you abstain from alcohol? How do you navigate the first date when you don’t drink?
If this is the first time the two of you will be meeting, you may be inclined to assume she would be uncomfortable on a first date with someone who doesn’t drink.
Happily, we’re here to tell you that’s absolutely not true! Going on a sober date can be a blast. These tips will help you to not feel awkward on that first date when you don’t drink, for whatever reason that may be!
Here are 5 tips that will help you not feel awkward on a first date when you don’t drink.
1. Prepare for the date.
The first tip for a first date, whether you’re a drinker or not, is to prepare. A woman will always be impressed by a prepared man. See if you can get to know her first so that you’re ready to discuss areas that are of interest to her.
If you know her favorite movie or type of food, you can discuss those topics during the date and feel more relaxed, showing you’ve paid attention to your conversations.
2. Plan the date yourself.
Consider planning a date somewhere you feel most comfortable. If you’re in a familiar place, you’ll be at ease with your surroundings. Making reservations is a great way to feel more in control of the date and your preparedness.
Plus, she’ll be impressed by the initiative you took to plan the date all on your own!
3. Offer to drive.
If you’d prefer to avoid the “I don’t drink” conversation on a first date, offer to drive the two of you. She’ll feel comfortable having a second or third glass on the date, AND she’ll be impressed by your chivalry.
Don’t forget to open the door for her as she gets in!
4. Suggest an outing that doesn’t involve alcohol.
If you don’t feel comfortable discussing your decision to abstain from alcohol, that’s totally okay! You can suggest a date that usually does not involve alcohol such as a walk in the park, a coffee date, or a lunch outing during the workday.
This way, you can get to know each other in a setting where alcohol isn’t even a topic of conversation, to begin with.
5. Order a mocktail.
Ordering a mocktail is a great way to “break the ice” (no pun intended) when it comes to mentioning that you don’t drink. Many restaurants have started to cater more toward the alcohol-free crowd with a mocktail menu. You’ll feel more comfortable having a “drink” in your hand and she may even decide to join you, too!
Choosing not to drink is a personal choice that does not require an explanation. A sober date shouldn’t be an inquisition. With that being said, if you feel inclined to explain your decision, there is no need to feel awkward about it.
More likely than not, she will respect your lifestyle choice, especially if she’s the right woman for you. Armed with these tips, you can approach that first date when you don’t drink with confidence knowing that you’re prepared!
Originally written by Sarah Jones on YourTango
Photo by Jarritos Mexican Soda on Unsplash
