2 Ideas for Your First Date

Wouldn't it be nice to have an assistant who would come up with date ideas, make your reservations, plan your evenings and take care of all of your details? I know I wouldn't mind having an assistant like that.

Well, I'm going to try my best and be that assistant for you today. No I can't make reservations or take care of your detail, but I will help you plan a nice, economical evening for your date.

I'll give you 2 ideas you can put into your date planning rolodex. Forget about staying up late trying to figure out where to go or what they might like, use these tips that are time tested and proven, and you'll only having to worry about showing up.

How To Dine

Depending on what your or your dates taste is, it can get somewhat expensive taking someone out to dinner. Once you get an idea of what kind of food your date likes, try to find some decent area food hangouts that correspond accordingly. Do a little surveillance work and scope the place out to make sure it has at least a decent appearance and groomed staff.

Also, check on the menu. Look at what they're serving, the presentation of the food and what kind of prices they have. If it's a place that you approve of, buddy up with the manager or someone else and reserve the best seat in the house.

By the way, it's important to revisit this point. Get a good idea of what your date will and won't eat. You would hate to go to a steak and potatoes restaurant when your date is a vegan, catch my drift? Find out if they have any allergies; fish, chicken, peanuts, etc. This will save you a very embarrassing moment.

Movie Magic

Although movies are probably the most famous date (besides dinner), it doesn't always provide the most appealing date. What if your date doesn't like the movie you picked out? Or you have to understand you're going to spend 2 1/2 hours in the dark not being able to talk.

That being said, it's an age old favorite and could speak volumes if you prepare the evening right. If possible, get a little background on your date from a friend or mutual acquaintance. Do they like movies that are romantic? Maybe they're an action junkie.

Try not to go with anything that is too sexy, violent or mushy. Try something neutral. Make it a movie that will keep your eyes open and attention sharp. You don't want your date sleeping, unless they fall asleep in your arms.