First date tips

Thursday, 26 April 2012 3:10 PM

Ah, the first date! That mixture of nerves and excitement you get as you get ready. The butterflies in your tummy as you step into the restaurant or pub and spot him sitting waiting for you. That should I/shouldn’t I moment when deciding whether to give him a goodnight kiss. Nothing beats it, right?

Of course, not all first dates go to plan. There are the ones where, five minutes in, you realise not only do you have nothing in common but you actually couldn’t like him any less. Or the ones where you have that one cocktail too many and end up telling him about the hopes and fears you had as a teenager as he hastily asks the waitress for the bill!

Making sure a first date goes to plan is out of your control but making sure the evening isn’t a total disaster is achievable if you follow these handy tips.

Be yourself

If you pretend you like French films with subtitles and sushi when really you prefer rom-coms and pizza you’re going to find that first date a massive challenge. First dates are nerve-wracking enough as it is without having to pretend you’re something you’re not all night. Be yourself and be truthful. You’ll probably find he falls head over heels for the real you.

Wear something you’re comfortable in

You want to look your best but there’s nothing sexy about fidgeting with your frock all night or tugging at your skirt to make sure it’s not looking too short! Wear something you know you look good in but most importantly something you feel comfortable in and you’ll have a much more enjoyable evening.

Don’t get too drunk

A drink or two for Dutch courage is fine but what you don’t want to do is wind up getting that little bit too tipsy and embarrassing yourself. Pace yourself, switch to soft drinks if you feel yourself getting a little light headed and make sure you eat something before you go out if you’re not going for dinner!

Plan your get out

We all want to believe that the first date will lead to a second and eventually you’ll marry the guy and have lots of babies but unfortunately that might not be the case. It’s therefore a good idea to plan your get out if your date turns out to be a disaster. An always make sure you meet in a public place.

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