You’ve been waiting for this day for weeks. The hottie from Math class finally asked you out and you’re set for your first date. You’ve selected the perfect outfit and are ready to enjoy the evening with him. A little nervous, you look to your friends for some advice. Here’s their best first date tips:
1. Wear an outfit that compliments your personality.
It’s tempting to wear a dress that accentuates your toned body, but it’s more important to wear an outfit that compliments your personality. Wear something a little nicer than you usually wear to school, but don’t bare it all. Leave a lot for the imagination and respect yourself as well as the boy you’re dating by wearing something that’s a little more classic in cut and fit.
Teen years can be awkward when it comes to height. So, if your date is shorter than you, don’t wear heels. Instead, wear a nice pair of flats – ballet, boots or sandals. If he is taller, then you can wear a small heel. Be sure to wear a comfortable pair of shoes – even a nice slick sneaker. You don’t want to get blisters if your date plans on taking a romantic walk.
2. Don’t overdo the makeup.
You want your natural beauty to shine, so don’t cake on the makeup. Rather, do a light and natural look so your face radiates. Consider a light lip gloss, peachy blush (if needed), a gold or rose-gold shimmery eye shadow and mascara.
3. Communicate with parents.
Before you head out, make sure your parents have an overview of what you’re doing. Let them know a little of the plan – who you’ll be with, where you’re going, how you’re traveling, how long you’ll be gone. If the plan ever changes, text them the update, otherwise just check in with them if that’s what they asked of you.
4. Know what you’re going to talk about.
What do you want this boy to know? The most important part of your life is your faith, so be ready to share about that significant element of your identity as well as your family, interests, talents, etc. Let him know what makes you unique and beautiful!
If you don’t know your date very well, have an idea of what you want to learn. Have a list of questions ready to help guide you through the conversation. It’s okay to have moments of silence, even long moments of silence. But, having topics in mind can help prevent those moments from becoming awkward.
5. Be creative.
Dates used to be a movie, dinner, ice cream or coffee in the evening. But, you don’t need to be confined by those trends. A hike in the morning, a game of soccer with friends after lunch, roller skating in the afternoon or smoothies before dinner are all great options. You can even go to his house for a movie and make a really fun movie themed charcuterie board together before the feature film. You don’t have to spend a lot of money, nor do you have to spend an entire evening together.
6. Respect his budget.
Never order the most expensive item on the menu. Get something you enjoy, so your date can learn more about your taste and you can enjoy the outing. Don’t expect to do more than your date offers. If he only plans a movie and then coffee after, don’t ask for concessions. If that’s something you really want, offer to pay for the concessions and share. But, it is a date and the boy is supposed to pay, so don’t overstep either! Let him sweep you off your feet by pampering you a little. Be grateful for the company and the opportunity to learn more about someone who adores you.
7. Set your phone aside.
Unless you’re taking a picture of the two of you (or checking in with your parents), you don’t need to have your phone out. Your date can look on your Insta to see your pictures (if he hasn’t already)! A text from your friend is none of his business. And, you can tell them about the date afterwards. Focus your attention on the cute boy in front of you.
8. Freshen up.
Give yourself permission to excuse yourself to freshen up. The best time to do this is when you’re transitioning from one place to another, but there really is no wrong time to do it. Make sure you don’t excuse yourself too often, or for too long. Go to the bathroom and at the very least, wash your hands, have a breath mint, apply more lipgloss and put on lotion – if you have some. Taking a breather is healthy. It allows you to regroup and gives your date a moment to compose himself if needed. It’s important to take this time to give your mind a little time to rest. Dates aren’t meant to be stressful, but they do require a little extra effort.
9. Physical touch.
It’s fun to be in a relationship, and there are a lot of exciting elements to a love interest – especially physical intimacy. But, don’t put yourself out there on the first date. If you’re comfortable, you can hold hands, hug and maybe kiss. But that’s where it needs to end – no make-out sessions, hookups or excessive touching. All that is entirely inappropriate. If your date implies that he’s interested in going further, then he’s not that very interesting. If you give in, then you’re sending the message that you aren’t worth dating further. You’re incredibly valuable and you need to inform your date about your worth by keeping physical connection to a minimum.
