First dates can be extremely nerve-wracking and very uncomfortable no matter what. Sometimes you can find yourself stuck in an awkward conversation or be in a position where you do not know what to say. It happens to everyone! Here are a few tips on how to make that first date a little less awkward and a lot more enjoyable as well as a few great places for a first date.
Photo by: Thomas Luethard
It is only awkward if you make it awkward.
Remember when you are on your date, try not overthink too much. If the conversation starts to die down, stay calm, and bring up something simple like questions that are not too personal but have not been discussed yet. You can ask questions about their upbringing, school, favorite foods, mutual friends and anything really. You two want to get to know each other because well, this is the first date.
Remember, you are both on this first date.
Your date is most likely nervous as well. No one is perfect and it is important to keep that in mind when your nerves start to get to you. With this mentality, it should put you more at ease while on the date.
Always be doing something.
Try to go on a date somewhere you can do something interactive like apple picking, a haunted house, an arcade or the classic dinner but NO movie. A movie just makes things a lot more complicated because body language is probably one of the most confusing things to read on a first date. Movies also cut out the option to talk and get to know each other more.
REAL DATE IDEAS.
As mentioned before, interactive places are the best. Places like these can bring out the playful side of both of you and ease your nerves.
1. Dave & Buster’s
This sport-bar-themed restaurant has casual, American-styled food as well as the option to play arcade games. If you’re over 21, you can enjoy a couple half-priced cocktails while playing some air-hockey during happy hour.
2. Top Golf
This trendy entertainment venue allows you to play a couple games of “point-scoring” golf games. You do not have to be a pro to play since the games just include hitting a ball from a platform onto the high-tech range. Anyone can do it! Food is also served to you while you’re golfing. Simple, easy, and great for double dates as well.
3. Rockefeller Center
The rink at Rockefeller Center is perfect for ice skating with your date while getting into the holiday mood. When the tree is lit up, it creates a beautiful scene to skate under.
4. MOMA
The Museum of Modern Art is a great place for you and your date to stroll around and look at beautiful pieces of art. The museum is always holding events and even has a few cafes inside.
Once again, first dates can be very intimidating. Remember to just have fun and not put so much pressure on yourself!