This is your chance to make a good impression on that person you’ve been admiring from afar. Whether you’re the inviter or the invited, keep in mind the following:
1. If you’re asking someone out on a date, make it clear that that’s what you’re asking for-no fuzzy invites that can be misconstrued as just two friends hanging out.
2. A first date should have some sense of ceremony, or at least give the impression that whoever initiated the date put some thought into it. It should be planned ahead of time so there are no awkward instances of, “Uh, I don’t know, where do you want to go?”
3. A good option for a first date is to take in something cultural, such as a play, a movie, or a museum. This will give you common, neutral ground on which to share observations-and choosing this sort of venue has the potential to impress.
4. Avoid eating in restaurants that could get sloppy: no Mexican (leaky fajitas), no sushi (too-large maki hanging out of your mouth), no place that requires chopsticks (nervousness could result in a momentary lack of coordination), and no place where you eat with your hands (too much potential for spills).
5. Never talk about your ex on a first date (save it for later in your relationship, if it comes to that).
6. Also avoid discussing STDs (presumptuous and a turnoff ) and other diseases or afflictions; the intricacies of your family’s dysfunctions; any high school awards/honors you have won; your financial situation; pets; former marriages; kids; time spent in the Big House.
7. Never assume that your date will foot the bill just because he/she asked you out. Always bring cash just in case (it also comes in handy if you need to make a quick escape). When the bill arrives, follow the inviter’s lead; if it looks like he’s going to pay for it all, offer to chip in. He should say no, but it’s polite to ask.
