It’s the most romantic day of the year and many couples and singletons around the world will be feeling the love today, whether it be online, though a mysterious gesture or their long-term partner.
There’s a lot of pressure on couples, new and established, to make it as romantic and memorable as possible. If it’s new, during a first date you realize that you are looking for different things, DatingPilot recommends that you call it off early. It saves both of you time and is easier than ending it at a later stage. This way you can also have more time searching for the one that will be right for you.
So, to help, we’ve teamed up with relationships website eHarmony.co.uk to bring you a list of dating tips to get you through.
1. Jokes are good
Got some funny stories to tell? Go for it. One of the top things people look for in a lover is someone that can make them laugh.
2. Be decisive
Last minute date and can’t decide on where to go? Avoid hemming and hawing. A dinner date is always a smart and obvious choice – try an area that’s mutual to you both – but also accessible.
3. Avoid your ex
Try not to talk about your ex on a first date – it’s very likely your date will be turned off – and they may think you’re not over them.
4. Talk about yourself…but don’t over do it
It’s fine to talk about your hobbies, travel history and job, but make sure the conversation is two-way – you don’t want to seem over immersed in yourself, or even worse, vain.
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If you know you’re prone to talking a lot when nervous, try and finish every sentence with ‘how about you’?
5. What should I wear?!
This all depends on where you are going. As a rule, casual works for anything outdoorsy while dressy works for nights out and dinner dates.
If in doubt or it’s a surprise, opt for smart casual – jeans and a shirt/dress and flats.
TIP for men: Avoid t-shirts and trainers, remember, you want to impress.
TIP for women: Avoid wearing heels if you find them uncomfortable as they’ll only make you more nervous.
6. Avoid awkward silences
So you’ve sat down, and drinks are on their way – what’s next?
Time to start talking! If you’re prone to awkward silences on first dates, do some research ahead of your date.
Smart daters know the trick is to find something in common – after that, the conversation will just flow.
Ask friends or check out their dating profile for clues as to what they’re into. Music, travel, and work (but don’t over do it) are all good ice breakers.
7. Uh, who’s paying?
According to traditional dating etiquette, men have always handled the bill – it shows you’re considerate and generous, and can help you make headway with those all important first impressions.
But, times have changed, and you may find that at the end of the evening when you’ve requested the bill, your date may offer to split things 50/50.
This is perfectly fine, but, before you accept, think carefully about whether she’s just being polite, and is secretly impressed by your chivalry in picking up the tab.
