Need a kick to your dating life?
We thought so! What better way to re-ignite that fire than to brush up on some first date tips from the people who do this for a living?
Events & Adventures has been helping relationships blossom for over 30 years. You’d be amazed at how easy it is to create a spark just by putting singles together in activities they all enjoy. However, dating is not always an exact science, and there is no magic formula. The recent COVID-19 uncertainty has also put a damper on romance, forcing all of us to reconsider how we approach relationships. But the good news is, the world is slowly returning to normal and summer romances are just on the horizon!
Here are 10 first date tips to bring with you into your summer dating scene, whether you are in a group setting or having one-on-one time with someone special.
Be Confident & Friendly
No one likes a big ego, but confidence is very attractive! Group events may seem intimidating; however, it’s quite simple! Just introduce yourself! In this setting, it’s completely normal, even encouraged, to just approach people and start conversations. Share something about yourself and ask others to do the same. A friendly attitude and a willingness to get to know others show confidence and good spirits.
Keep Conversation Light
Some people have a tendency to overshare. Keep the conversation to what’s going on around you. Luckily, at Events & Adventures, you’ll have plenty to discuss whether you’re sight-seeing on a kayaking trip or taking in the nature during a hike. Try to avoid any “ex” topics. A relationship doesn’t seem appealing if the other person is still holding on to the old one. Leave the resentments in the past and work on something new with the singles you’re meeting now.
Choose Common Ground
Found someone you’re interested in? Try inviting them to an off-site date where you can have some alone time. The first date should always be somewhere you both feel comfortable. Usually, a public setting, like a coffee shop, restaurant, or other fun outing is best practice. You can even leave the intimate dinner date for later, and choose a more interesting outing like a trip to the aquarium. You should have a pretty solid understanding of what your dates interests are, based on where you meet them at Events &Adventures!
The Dreaded Check
WHO PAYS?? A contentious topic, but a necessary one. Traditionally, the man pays. However, ladies, come prepared to split the check just in case. Gentlemen, if you’d like to impress your date, you should pay.
Turn Off Your Phone
This is a no-brainer! If you can’t leave business to rest for an hour or two, wait until you have a day where you can. Should an emergency arise, excuse yourself, and be brief. Don’t let anything take your attention from your date.
Don’t Default to the Bar
This is an easy mistake to make. Of course, drinks might seem like a casual choice with easy conversation, but it shows no effort on your part. Drinks often lead to both parties not being their true self, and can even turn sloppy if you’re not careful. If you’re really trying to get to know someone, a crowded bar is not the place. Events & Adventures has a ton of activities outside the bar scene that will spark your next first date idea.
Don’t “Play It Cool”
One of the most important first date tips is to try to be authentic! Acting like you don’t care isn’t cool, it actually makes your date feel insecure and uncomfortable. If you’re interested, then show that interest by asking your date about themselves, paying attention, and actively responding in the conversation.
Avoid Trigger Topics
There’s a time and place to discuss politics and a first date is not it! Even if you think the other person may potentially have similar views or they voice agreement, just steer the conversation into somewhere else. This can lead an uncomfortable situation or even an argument. Same goes for hot topics like religion, sex, or anything too controversial. The first date is for fun conversation and lighthearted laughs, not political views.
Asking for a Second Date
This one can be tough to navigate but try to keep it simple. As a rule of thumb, wait to ask for a second date until after your first date has already ended and the person has gone home. Express that you had a great time, and let them know you’ll be in touch. Asking during the date can make things slightly uncomfortable, especially if you’re judging the date incorrectly. Wait until you and the date have had time to think over the night and reach out to them the next day if you are too excited to wait!
Don’t Give Up
One bad date is not a good reason to get down on yourself or to give up the dating scene altogether. There is someone out there for everyone, and sitting in your house won’t get you any closer to meeting them. Events & Adventures will help you meet eligible singles just doing things you love. So, you don’t have to crawl the bars or swipe aimlessly through profiles. Just go do what you love, and meet other singles who love those things too!
If you’re ready to live life more and put some of these first date tips into action, sign up for a membership today.