8 First Date Tips for Singles

AD| First dates are many things. They can be exciting, scary, fun and nerve-wracking. The prospect of meeting someone who can change your whole life is thrilling!

I dated for about 18 months before I met my partner. I didn’t spend the whole 18 months going on dates with different men all the time, there were times when I stopped looking as I needed a break. But I am living proof that online dating works and you can find the father of your future child on Tinder or.

As I like to think of myself as a bit of a dating expert, I thought I’d put together some tips for a first date.

1. Set up the date in advance and have a time and place

There are many factors to consider when you’re in the process of choosing where your first date should take place. You need to consider factors such as your budget and what types of activities you want to do. There is no cookie-cutter answer for where the best place for a first date is, but here are some tips for finding the perfect spot.

You should try to find a romantic spot that also caters to your interests and hobbies. This way, you can enjoy more than one thing at once and spend more time with the person that you’re interested in. You can also make sure that there are plenty of photo ops so that you can document your time together and remember it later on. Although I always felt a bit awkward asking for a photo with someone on a first date, but it’s nice to take photos of your surroundings or a toilet mirror selfie to remember what you wore!

But the most important thing is to commit to a time and place you will meet. There have been a few times when I’ve tried to plan a date with someone but have not committed. Then we didn’t end up going on a date.

Don’t be afraid to suggest a place, especially when it turns into a bit of a ‘whatever you fancy’ type conversation with neither of you are making the decision. Just take control!

2. Be authentic and let your true personality shine through on the date

When it comes to dating, the advice that is given by experts can be too much. You need to be yourself on the date and not worry about what others might think of you because if they don’t love who you are, they are the wrong person for you.

Of course, we always want to show the BEST version of ourselves, but never hide who you are or stifle your personality.

You should never try to fit a certain mould. I found that when I stopped overthinking everything,, I had much more success and fun with dating!

3. Plan out your outfit ahead of time and keep it simple

Again, you don’t want to hide who you are but you also want to make a nice impression. So wear an outfit that you are both comfortable in and feel confident in. I had the same first date outfit that I always wore as it just made me feel really good about myself. I mean, it did work… eventually!

If you’re not sure what to wear, check out this post on outfits ideal for a first date.

4. Give compliments but don’t be insincere

If you want to be able to get people to like you, then one of the easiest ways of doing it is by giving them compliments. It is a great way of making them feel good and boosting their self-esteem.

However, there are some things that you should take into consideration before giving a compliment. You should not give a compliment just for the sake of it or because you think that it will make you seem nice. There are some compliments that will be taken as insincere and might make your target even more guarded against you in the future.

You can complement their shoes, shirt, wallet, phone case – it doesnt’ have to be something cheesy like telling them they have beautiful eyes if that makes you feel uncomfortable.

If you’re not sure how to compliment a guy, then check out this guide.

5. Ask about this person’s passions in life, specifically asking about hobbies or interests you find intriguing

This question is a great way to get to know someone on a more personal level. It is also an excellent way to get your date talking about their passions and interests.

6. Share personal details about yourself

You might want to think twice before you talk for the whole duration of your first date. It can be easy to get excited and start talking too much about yourself.

If both of you want to get to know each other, it’s best not to just talk about yourself. You should try asking questions about their interests and what they’re doing right now in life.

If you’re finding it hard to get them to talk or they seem shy, see the tip below.

7. Use ‘Killer Questions’ to Get to Know More About Your Potential Partner

“Killer Questions” are questions that can reveal a lot about a person in a short period of time. They can also be used to spark conversation and determine if you two are compatible.

Questions like:

• What are your thoughts on marriage?
• What is your perfect date night?
• Where would you like to travel?
• What’s your favorite song right now?
• What is your favorite TV show right now?
• What’s your favourite Disney show.

So next time you’re talking to your new potential partner, keep these tips in mind when you’re planning your date.

Check out some more summer date ideas here.