How to Create a Romantic First Date

Success rates on first dates is very low but great first dates do happen and it can happen for you. The right place, correct timing, and the natural chemistry between both of you is vital in determining whether a first date will or won't be a success. Mostly it's up to you whether the first date will be a romantic memory you'll always look back on and smile, or a disaster that you'll never talk about again. Here are some helpful steps to get you on the right path toward creating a romantic first date...

1) Pick the Right Place. Do your homework, get a good idea of the prices and the atmosphere. Visit a few times around the proposed time of your actual date and check noise levels, bar activity, and what sort of people are there. Is it a family restaurant, or is it a place where you can have some level of privacy and where you can enjoy some quiet conversation.

2) Keep the Conversation Light. Especially at first. Keep on light topics and small talk that doesn't require much thought. Avoid sensitive subjects like politics and religion. And even though you may be tempted, don't start any heavy romantic discussions on the first date - save that stuff for later. That romantic stuff can easily scare away your date and the possibility of a future relationship.

3) They Don't Want to Hear About Your Ex. Look, it's ancient history and that discussion needs to be between you and your ex, or with some of your close friends but never on a first date. Even though your date may sound sympathetic to your situation, don't discuss your ex and especially don't say anything bad about your ex. If they ask about past relationships, tell them the truth but spare them the awful details of your breakup.

4) Loose Lips Sink Ships - and Dates, Too. Watch what you're doing. Keep a tab on how much you're drinking even if your date may be drinking uncontrollably. You don't want to lose control of yourself here and tell some horrible story about what you did in college at a frat party and how many times you threw up the next day - and how funny that was. First date is no place for such talk, save it for when you know each other better. You must stay alert and aware and that means keep a close watch on what and how much you drink. Remember, you want to make a good first impression.

5) Ask Lots of Questions, Be a Good Listener. Asking about what someone is interested in can be a great way to make your date feel important, and relaxed. If there is one thing lacking in this world today, it's people who will shut up and listen. Don't pry but ask questions about their interests, what music they like, hobbies, work, etc. Asking questions and then listening also helps you find out more about them, and keeps the conversation going.

6) Use the Golden Rule of Dating. "Do for others what you want them to do for you" - it's a simple scripture from the Bible, but has the ring of truth for any situation in life, but especially for a first date. It's just a first date but there is a lot going on here. You are proving how you will treat your date should this ever turn into a serious relationship. Try to find out what they like, what any person would like - undivided attention, showing interest in them, courtesy, desire for their enjoyment over your own, etc. You know, common sense stuff. Be authentic, don't try to be someone you're not, and your date will see this right away.