5 Tips for a Great First Date

So you’ve worked up the confidence to finally ask that person who’s been catching your eye on a date, and – what’s more – they’ve accepted! Congratulations! You’ve navigated the first hurdle of a possible relationship. If the thought of the first date is giving you sweaty palms and heart palpitations, take a deep breath, relax and read on for some great first date tips.

1. Location, location, location

The first thing you need to look at is “where”. If you’ve spoken at length already, you may have some great ideas hidden in the back of your mind. Take cues from their online dating profile or from conversations you’ve had in the past. If they’re traditionalists, perhaps an old fashioned coffee shop would be their style. If they’re more modern, a trendy bar or quirky restaurant may be more fitting. Take into account their personal tastes but make sure it’s somewhere where you will both be able to hear one another.

2. Don’t force a set amount of time

Ideally, try and arrange a date that puts little pressure on you both, arranging to meet for drinks is much less frightening than arranging to meet for a full three-course meal and – if you really hit it off – you can always offer to extend the date into dinner.

4. Dress to impress

We’re by no means suggesting you go and buy a whole new wardrobe before the date, but make sure you’re putting your best foot forward on the first date. That means showing up well groomed and smart. That said, make sure you wear clothes you’re comfortable in; you don’t want to be sucking in your stomach or strangling yourself with a tie all night.

Video: tips for a first date from dating experts