Our First Date

First dates rule. No, really! Stop laughing at me, and no, I am not crazy! First dates are where you start discovering the great and wonderful things about a person, even if you have known them forever. There is nothing like that thrill of first date excitement, but what exactly should you do? How about six good dating techniques?

1) The old standards. Some things are enduring and timeless. How did they get that way? By working, that’s how. Included in this is dinner, or its variation, dinner and a movie. You do not have to go to the same, tired old restaurant though. Shake things up a bit by going to an out of the way bistro, or to the newest trend setting place. Look for a clever theme that will give you bonus points with the least amount of effort. Going to go to an old film noir festival? Take your date to an old fashioned diner, the kind you might actually see in one of the films later in the evening. Bam, you have just been declared smart and romantic!

2) Something active. Today’s lifestyle is more physically demanding, and most singles really work hard to keep themselves in shape. Knowing that and then suggesting a virtual oink fest at an all you can eat buffet might suggest that you do not care about anybody’s health, let alone your own. If you met your date at a gym, you know that they work out, so suggest something more active, maybe with a sense of adventure thrown in. Just be sure that you leave the competitive streak at home when you go. Running together on a sandy beach at twilight? Romantic. A full out sprint, complete with finger pointing and name-calling? Stupid. Nice play, Romeo, think you might get somewhere now?

3) Something unexpected. There is nothing more stimulating than something that is just slightly out of the ordinary, maybe even a little over the top to make a lady feel special. If your date only knows you from the buttoned down image you have to present at the office, then show up on your motorcycle in a leather jacket. She has only seen you in your mechanic’s overalls with greasy fingers? Then show up in a shirt and tie. Let her know that you are more than just the image you show the public during work hours.

4) Something silly. Remember when you were a child and the carnival was in town? What could be more fun than strolling hand in hand through the crowds at a local fair or festival on a first date? Giggle together as you play the games of chance. Feed each other your personal favorite fair foods. Maybe even ride a few of the rides if you are really feeling brave. Just make sure you include cotton candy in the evening. (Okay, maybe that is just me.)

5) Something romantic. Romance is different for each person, but if you do not know a lot about your date, then go for something generally romantic. Not sure of what that is? Watch a movie, or read a romance novel. Romance does not necessarily mean spending a ton of cash, but if you can afford them, you can’t go wrong with roses. Just keep in mind that romantic gestures can quickly go overboard and make you look like you are a stalker. Pick one or two gestures, and save the rest for another time.

6) Something specific. If your date is someone that you have mutual friends with, then you can find out some specific bits of information about them. Don’t try to get too deep with your questioning, but you can find out general things like favorite foods, colors or hobbies. Know that she is a fan of old time rock and roll? Take her to a local club to rock out to a cover band. She is a sailor at heart? Rent a pontoon boat and take her for a picnic on the water. Show her that you cared enough to plan something with her and her alone in mind, and she will think you are a very, very special guy.

Gary Gregory owns a popular relationship and dating website that reports on better relationships, dating, how to get your ex back, affairs and more. Please visit his website: http://www.relationshipreporting.com.

I have a wonderful marriage and our first date was magical. Yours will be too.

Our First Date