Tips for a Great First Date: The Do's and Don'ts

First dates can be exciting, yet stressful. Whether you are on a blind date, or going out with that hotty that caught your eye at the book store, you want to have an enjoyable first date. After consulting my own memory bank and that of some friends, I've compiled a list of tips to help you have a great first date.

Where to go on the first date?

A safe bet is lunch or dinner, something a little casual to take the pressure off. I don't recommend a movie on the first date because it doesn't give you any time to talk and get to know each other.

What do you wear on a first date?

You should dress to match your personality, don't try to be someone you're not. You can dress casual, but not sloppy, first impressions are important. For the ladies, you should leave something to the imagination; your date does not need to see all your assets so clearly on your first date.

Perfume/Cologne

Wear just enough to give your date a hint of how good you smell, but don't bathe in it. Ask someone you trust enough to be honest with you, whether you have too much or too little perfume/cologne on. A little goes a long way.

What to talk about on a first date?

Think ahead about questions that might keep the conversation going. Make sure you ask about them and then listen to what your date is saying. Sometimes we are so eager to impress our date with our own stories and success; we forget to inquire about theirs. A good listener is hard to find.

What not to talk about on a first date?

Please do not talk about your ex or ex's! Talking about your ex-boyfriend or girlfriend is a great way to ruin a first date. If you are still talking about your ex, it's a red flag to your date that you are not over your past relationship. Also, don't bring up marriage and commitment on your first date unless you really want to scare off your date. There is plenty of time to talk about long term, but the first date is not the time for that.

Additional first date tips?

Be yourself. Do not pretend to be something or someone you are not. Don't say you like things that you know you don't. Being overly agreeable can only last so long and eventually the truth will come out. Don't lie to your date, lies are hard to keep track of, so honesty is the best policy.

If you just relax and don't put too much pressure on yourself or your date, you will have a good time. Even if the first date ends up being the last date, at least you put yourself out there. Good luck!