Dating etiquette – The first date

Nov 13, 2011 by blackbook

Picture courtesy of mozzercork

I’m lucky I am no longer in the dating game and happily settled, however a couple of my friends aren’t so lucky and after been in long relationships find themselves back in the dating pool. One of them this weekend had a first date with a guy met through a mutual acquaintance however she is very nervous because it’s been a number of years since she went on a first date. So when she came to me for some help I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to write a few points on dating etiquette for all those single ladies out there.

Time and place

This is important as where you eat if going out for food on your date can affect the whole evening. Timing first; you don’t want to be out eating too early, early bird specials are not a good option for first dates. Meeting around 7’o clock for a pre-dinner drink is nice and look to be sat down for your meal between 7.30 and 8 so you get enough time to enjoy your meal. When choosing a restaurant go for somewhere that serves a selection of cuisines rather than just one, also make sure your date isn’t allergic to anything and that their preferences are covered.  Finally arrive on time never be late to a first date, this is just rude.

During the meal

First impressions are key, so make sure you are polite and courteous and use your best dining manners, you know the ones your parents made you follow at posh restaurants. This means no slouching or leaning on the table with your elbows. Also make sure your phone is switched off and don’t keep checking it as that is rude. Keeping a positive attitude will help even if you feel that the date isn’t going to plan and remember to smile! Also remember don’t drink too much alcohol. If you have pre-dinner drinks stick to just one drink either a glass of wine or a single spirit or mixer, you don’t want to get blathered before the meal.

Conversation

This is the most important part of the date, the odd silences are okay especially if you’re eating so don’t panic too much if it all goes quite! During the date remember to ask questions and remember the answers, don’t talk about yourself the whole time either and don’t mention exes either! If you find that you are running out of things to ask/say, pick a topic on current events if he likes football for example try and talk about that or any other interest.

Paying the bill

As a women with some traditional values I do feel that the man should offer to pay for the meal, however if they don’t offer to pay for you as well then don’t make a fuss or push it even if you think that they should. If you’re the type of person which likes everything to be equal then subtly offer to pay for your half of the meal however if your date is insistent they pay for you its best to politely accept than start an argument over who pays.

Ending the night

Hopefully by the end of the date you should have a good idea whether there will be a second date or not. The easiest way to end the night is to politely thank your date for a great evening and say that you would love to do it again sometime (if you want to see your date again). Hopefully they will be receptive in their response if they would like a second date. If you do not want another date then it’s easy to shake hands, thank them for dinner and the leg it!!