First dates can be awkward or terrific, scary or comforting, embarrassing or an instant hit. One can never be too careful whether you're meeting someone you've only chatted online, or hooking up with a blind date set up by friends. No matter what, first dates can be exciting and fun if you take care of a few pointers.
Dress appropriately for the occasion; you'll feel uncomfortable if you turn up in evening wear and your date is wearing jeans. Discuss dress codes in advance and keep it simple and don’t go all dressy. Girls, too much makeup is a definite no no, you don’t want to go looking like a Christmas tree and send out wrong signals.
Presents and flowers are too much for a first date, though if things are going well, and you see a flower-seller, a single rose will confirm your interest.
Choose a public place you both are comfortable and familiar with, a coffee shop, restaurant or even a gaming pub. If one of you is stuck in traffic or lost, you're bound to have unnecessary tension even before you arrive. So choose a place you already know well or ensure that you have proper direction and means to get there. Say no to a place where there is very less or no human traffic.
You may feel it’s better to be a few minutes late so you don’t feel silly waiting for your date, but that just means your date will be waiting for you. Treat your date as an important meeting so you’re sure to show him or her the respect they deserve. Plan ahead, leave early, and account for any possible delays in traffic.
Be nice - Have a positive attitude, find things that you like and tell each other. Compliment about his clothes, how he looks and how well the date is going. It will put the other person at ease and also makes them feel important. It also shows him that you're taking notice and you appreciate. Remember, don’t overdo and don't lie. Not only while dating, but even in everyday life, mention and focus on things that are positive and ignore the negative things.
If you’ve been set up by a friend, dig for information about the person before the date. Get a description of the looks and personality, likes and dislikes and understand why your friend would like you to meet him/her. If you’re unsure, ask around: other friends may know more about the person in question.
It’s often a good idea to speak to your prospective date before meeting up. Even though it might spoil some of the mystery, it could save you a wasted evening. Treat the phone call as part of your date and be on your best behaviour.
Nowadays blind dates are just as likely to come from social networking or internet dating sites. Make sure you have exchanged enough emails, text messages and phone calls to know that you really want to meet this person. Don’t give in to pressure to meet quickly – and don’t put yourself in any situations where you don’t feel comfortable.
Safety is very important. Make sure someone knows exactly where you are and who you’re with, perhaps the friend. Leave your date’s phone number, email address and even a picture as well as details of where you're going.
Treat your blind date as the fun, exciting and possibly life-changing event that it is. It should be enjoyable and entertaining, but above all it should be safe.
