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7 Tips to Rock Your First Date!

Nervous for a first date with your crush? This step-by-step guide will give you the
run down on what to expect — so you can shine!

First dates can be really scary. It's nerve-racking to put yourself out there,
especially with someone you barely know. Honestly, first dates may suck,
but unfortunately, they're pretty necessary in the world of dating. They're
where you make your first impression, and they help in deciding whether
or not there will be a second date.

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Put yourself in a positive state of mind.
Like I said, first dates can be terrifying, so, before you embark on one, try
to get yourself in a positive mindset and calm your nerves. This might
mean meditating for 10 minutes, or jamming out to your favorite playlist
while you get ready. Sometimes, it helps to have a friend there with you,
pumping you up as you do your hair. The most nerve-racking part of a
first date is definitely the time leading up to it. So, make the prep fun and
you'll be feeling better when you finally sit down with your date.

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Pick the perfect outfit.
Finding the perfect first date outfit seems kind of impossible. You want
your date to open the door and think, "wow!" but you also want to keep it
cool and causal. Strike the right balance by pairing your cutest jeans with
an off-the-shoulder tee or a strappy tank—something that's a little more
fun than you're go to school look. You don't want to wear something you
wouldn't normally rock, however. Your outfit should be a good
representation of you. In general, opt for your favorite top or lucky pair of
boots so you're feeling confident and comfortable throughout the night.
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Give a quick and cool hello.
Even if you and your date text all the time, the first moment of a real-life
date can be the scariest part— so much buildup! Keep your cool and calm
their jitters by giving them a warm hi and a quick hello hug. When they
see how cool you're playing it, not only will they be impressed, but they'll
also start to calm down too.

Another way to diffuse the awkwardness is by making a joke ("Full

disclosure: I changed three times!"). They'll realize you don't take yourself
too seriously and once you guys get a good laugh in together, you'll be
ready to start the night and have some fun.

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Keep the convo moving.
First dates can sometimes feel like a job interview. Both parties are trying
to gain all the info they can on each other, and the back and forth
questioning can seem insincere. It's totally normal to want to know
everything about the person you're on a date with, but just realize that's
going to take some time. Instead of shooting questions at your date, ask
them one and then let a conversation build from there. If they love rap
music, start discussing that! Don't just move on to the next question on
your list.
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Offer to split the check.
If you think your date might pick up the check and you're not sure how
much food to order, ask them what they're getting. It's a totally
nonchalant, normal question and then you can choose something around
the same price. When the check comes, offer to split it. If they really insist
on paying, thank them and maybe next time offer to get ice cream on you.

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Let them know you want to go out again.
As the night is coming to a close, if you decide you want to see your date
again, let them know. You can be up front ("We should totally do this
again sometime"), or you can be more coy about it. If you don't want to be
too forward, bring up something referenced earlier in the conversation. If
they discussed how much they love playing Fortnite, try something like,
"So, when are you going to show me your Fortnite skills?" That will show
them you're interested in seeing them again, and it will make them excited
to share one of their favorite interests with you.

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If you want to kiss them, let it be known.
Don't just wait for your date to make the move. When you're parting for
the night, linger a little, maybe even lightly touch their arm. Let it be
known that you're open for a good night kiss. If they're not receptive, fine,
but if they are, it could be magical. Of course, if you're not comfortable
with kissing them, no prob! There's nothing that says you have to kiss.
Even if they pay for the dinner, you don't owe your date anything.