So you are headed for your first date in a while and are clueless about what to do in preparation for the night. Or perhaps you need a fresh reminder.
These are a few dos and don’ts for the special day.
Dos:
1. Know your date. It is always good to have background information when going on a date with someone new. However, do not stalk the person; just find out enough to know you will be safe.
2. Know where you are going. Unless you are going on a surprise date, find out where you are going – it’s even best to plan the date together, especially if it’s someone you have known for a while. Knowing where you are headed makes things simpler when planning your outfit for the event. Remember to let someone else (friend or family member) know where you will be.
3. Order what you know. If you are going on a regular date with someone you have been in a relationship with for some time, then perhaps it would not be a bad idea to try something new on the menu and not be too ashamed about how you will look eating it. This wouldn’t be a good idea if you are with a fairly new flame on a first date.
4. Represent yourself well. Sure, going on a date is nothing compared to the big presentation you would have to do at work, but it’s always best to arrive on time and look your best, smell good and have a great time.
Don’ts:
1. The stalker talk. It is great to know a few things about your date – this makes it easier to converse. But do not share the fact that you stalked them before the date; you will come across as creepy. Do not share too much about what you know, give them room to tell you.
2. Do not overdo things. Yes, you need to look good, but don’t have too much make-up on, and limit your perfume or cologne intake.
3. Limit the past. So you have had your fair share of bad relationships, don’t bring that up on your first date. Also avoid asking your date about their past relationships.
4. Do not give out too much. Be careful not to give off the wrong body language. Rather, tell your date that you are comfortable doing (for example, kissing on the third date) to avoid miscommunication through body language.
Dates do not always work out the way you may want them to, so no matter what happens just remember to have fun. You are simply trying to see if you can gel with the person!
