Off

Eight First Date Tips

First dates can be incredibly nerve-wracking, especially when they are with a guy you really like. While it might be easy to get stressed out, there is no reason to — after all, if he wasn’t interested, why would he ask you out? Don’t stress, most everyone gets nervous on first dates (including guys). If first date jitters are something you struggle with, here are some helpful tips to overcome them.

(Photo: Shutterstock)

1. Relax

There is no point in getting yourself all worked up over nothing; try to take a deep breath and relax before you stress out. It is OK to be nervous, but it is not OK to freak out and bail. The best way to reduce your stress levels is preparation. Decide on the outfit you are going to wear before the date, so you aren’t ripping through your closet in a frenzied panic.

2. Take care of your skin

You don’t want your date to feel scaly, dry skin when he brushes up against you, right? Make sure you are taking care of your skin with acne products, exfoliating scrubbers and moisturizers. Face powder for dry skin is the perfect solution for anyone who struggles with irritation after exfoliation. While it is important to keep your face clear and acne free, you don’t want to overdo it. Avoid using a loofah every day and never exfoliate if your skin is red or irritated.

3. Get your hair done

Have you been meaning to get some highlights done? A first date is a perfect excuse to see your favorite hairdresser and spruce up your look. If you don’t want to deal with the trouble of going to the salon, invite a friend over. Not only will they help you get ready, but they might also give you the pep talk you need to stay calm and relaxed.

4. Have a glass of wine

Nothing kills first date jitters quite like a glass of liquid courage. Pop open a bottle of red wine a few hours before your date arrives and enjoy a glass or two. However, it is vital that you don’t drink too much — you wouldn’t want to start slurring your words at dinner or stumble out the door.

5. Find out what he likes

There is no shame in a bit of light Facebook stalking (especially if the person you are stalking has already asked you out). Finding out what your date’s interests are on social media is a great way to keep the conversation flowing and natural. You don’t have to learn everything you can about his interests, you just need to ask him about them. Do so naturally though, or risk coming off a bit creepy.

6. Choose the right outfit

It might seem more challenging than climbing a mountain, but choosing the right outfit really isn’t as hard as you might think. If you are like most women, you have a go-to first date outfit that can always be depended upon. However, if you don’t have a default outfit, that is perfectly fine too! Go shopping with one of your close girlfriends a few days before and try on everything you can.

When it comes to outfits, try to dress appropriately for the occasion. In other words, don’t wear a flannel and jeans to dinner or a cocktail dress to mini-golf. Check the weather and dress accordingly. You want him to think you are cold so he puts his arm around you, rather than actually being cold.

(Photo: RachelScottYoga/Pixabamay)

7. Be decisive and confident

There is nothing more attractive to a man than a woman who knows what she wants. If he presents you with options for dinner or activities, don’t fumble around with your words; be decisive in your decision making.

8. Be yourself

It might sound corniy or cliché, but you should always be yourself on a date. If you can’t help but be nervous, than be nervous — it is genuine. Don’t bother pretending to be something that you aren’t; if you do, it is only a matter of time before he figures out it isn’t the real you. Don’t be surprised to find that the things you worried would drive him away are really what make you an endearing and worthwhile date in his eyes.

Use these helpful tips and the two of you could be planning your wedding before you know it.

Article by Melissa Frank