Whether it was in high school or now as college student, every girl has experienced that awkward first date. Getting to know someone can be intimidating, but it can also be exciting! Think about how rare it is to be asked out on a date where the guy actually walks up to the door to get you. In this hookup culture we live in, it has become all sex and no talk. I am sure there are still some sweet old-fashioned boys out there trying to keep the romance alive but the reality of it is, a simple Snapchat saying to “come party” has sadly, become the norm. Ladies, just to be clear, conversations through Snapchat are NOT real conversations. Don’t sell yourself short for a boy who only hits you up drunkenly at midnight every weekend. Realize you deserve better.
1. DO make him mind his manners.
Like I said before, this one really speaks for itself. The guy doesn’t have to be full out old fashioned but don’t let him completely ignore all the polite things to do on a first date like pay for the meal, be respectful, and keeping the conversation flowing. First impressions are some of the most important!
2. DON’T let him take you to the movies on the first date.
Going to the movies on the first date is just straight out lame because there is no opportunity to talk or get to know each other. Consider a movie theater four or five dates down the line once your comfortable sitting in silence for two hours sharing a bowl of buttery popcorn.
3. DO something out of the ordinary.
Depending on what season it is, this can range from a variety of things. Some cool winter activities can be driving up Cottonwood Canyon and skiing or snowboarding. In the summer, try checking out more outdoor activities! Places like concerts, music festivals, and carnivals are great options for any warm summer night. Hiking and rock climbing are also other great first dates for you outdoorsy people. Regardless of what you do, if the person you are with is fun, then it won’t matter what you guys do.
4. Don’t get weird.
It’s magical to have a connection unique with someone, a connection where you feel so comfortable with them that you’re okay to tell them everything about yourself! Every. Single. Thing. Don’t talk about your horrible ex or the fact that you have a collection of rocks shaped like hearts. It’s weird.
5. DO (or Don’t) kiss at the beginning of the date.
This is a risky do or don’t. Kissing on the first date can come off two ways: super charming or super creepy. It all the depends on how much you like the guy going into the date so if he does go for a kiss at beginning of a date then the comfort zone was probably somewhat established before the first date.
6. DON’T Netflix & Chill.
Never. Let me just say from personal experience that Netflix and chilling on the first date says a lot about a guy and how creative they are. This just tells the girl that your intentions are essentially to hook up with her and not much more. Don’t get me wrong lazy days are the best but they are usually better when you feel more comfortable with him down the road. Also don’t be afraid to pitch fun ideas because few guys actually plan out full dates and will appreciate a little input from the girl.
7. Lastly, give a boy another chance.
You know what they say: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” First impressions can make the difference between a successful date and a total failure. Overall, try to remember that sometimes guys will do these don’ts and you can either choose not to go out with them again or possibly give them a second chance. One time I went out with a boy and had a terrible first date but after much contemplation I decided to give him another chance and in the end it all worked out! Take lots of chances and go out as much as you can because life is beautiful and these college years truly are the best in your life. Before you know it, you will be out in the real world adulting with the rest of society, so be young and naïve for as long as you can.