For example, if your date dislikes nature, don’t plan a hike and a picnic. Or, if he/she works in a coffee shop, avoid planning a date at the coffee shop. Be aware of his/her preferences. Think about what you already know about your partner. Try to remember what you two have talked about together. What does your partner enjoy doing? What does your partner like eating? What does your partner hate?
For example, if you’re taking your date to the zoo during the winter, let your partner know so he/she can dress warmly.
If the first date goes well, you could continue sharing planning for subsequent dates. Instead of splitting up planning for a single date, take turns planning entire dates.
Active first dates are good ways to break the ice, if you don’t know your partner very well. [1] X Expert Source Lisa ShieldDating Coach Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.
See if your bowling alley or laser-tag company offers any special features, such as black light nights.
Consider packing a meal for your hike. Look for nice places to stop and eat or wait till you reach the end of the trail. You can tailor your picnic to be as casual or romantic as you like.
This kind of date isn’t for everyone. You’ll need to know if your date genuinely likes the surprise element of not knowing what’s next. If you don’t know your date well, you may ask if he/she wants to be spontaneous. If not, have a backup date already planned. If it looks like your date isn’t enjoying something you’ve decided to do or somewhere you’ve gone, ask where he/she would like to go or what he/she would rather do.
Make sure you and your date are not allergic or opposed to the cuisine you want to try.
Make sure you consider the location and time of your date. It may be hard to talk and enjoy yourself if you choose the attraction’s busiest day and time of the week.
Studies have shown that drinking coffee together can create a trustworthy feeling. [7] X Research source Not a bad way to start a date.
This is easily adaptable. You can walk through a park and people-watch or stop at shops as you walk around town.
Consider the atmosphere of the restaurant. Avoid choosing fast food places, but don’t choose somewhere too fancy if you want to have a relaxed meal.
Renting a movie could also an option and would allow you to talk to one another; however, this may seem overly presumptuous for a first date.
Avoid ordering certain foods on a first date: foods that are overly messy or difficult to eat, foods that make you gassy, or foods that will leave you smelling strongly or give you bad breath. [9] X Research source
Choose music or performances that both you and your date will enjoy. A concert performance or theatre showing can lend sophistication and intimacy to your date.
While you can look for a museum that neither of you have visited before, you can also go to a museum or gallery that one or both of you frequently visit. If this is the case, show one another your favorite things.
