5 Ways to Make a Memorable First Impression on a Date

First dates are an important step in setting the tone for a romantic relationship. If you are truly interested in someone, dating is an excellent way to see if you share common values and enjoy spending time together. There are a few simple ways to make a memorable first impression. By considering some of the fine details below (before you meet your date), you will make the most of your afternoon or evening.

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1. Dress in a Classic Style

It is easy to get caught up in what to wear on a first date. While you want to put thought into your outfit, you do not want to look like you are trying too hard for the occasion. To dress in the best style for your date, consider where you are going. Remember that you do not have to be overdressed to look attractive. Whether you are meeting at a five-star restaurant or a baseball game, a classic style always looks best. A fresh black crew neck or a grey zip-up hoodie is a perfect basic top for casual dates.

If you are taking things up a notch, you can dress yourself up with a timeless navy crew neck or brown pullover coupled with a tailored earth-tone jacket. A bomber jacket or hooded jacket adds bold details to your outfit without making it look too sophisticated.

Pair your shirts and outerwear with well-fitting jeans or a pair of neutral-colored pants. Finish your outfit with stylish footwear and a few accessories. Fashionable, clean sneakers and Oxford shoes are two great choices for a first date.

Some men would prefer to wear dress boots or boat shoes. When in doubt, try on a couple of different pairs of shoes to see what looks best with your outfit. A watch or a nice belt will add fine detail to your look. Avoid wearing too many accessories, which can take away from your timeless style.

1. Be Present with Your Date

If you want to impress someone, the most important thing you can do is be present during your time with them. By focusing on them for your entire date, you will reassure them that you are ready for a commitment.

The first way you can be present is to arrive at your date on time. For extra points, get to the restaurant or the date site a little early. Try grabbing a table before they get there, and then text them to let them know it is available. Another pleasant surprise is meeting them outside the door to greet them. These details do not take much effort but show them that you are excited to spend time with them.

Next, stay off your phone. There is nothing worse than putting your time and energy into your date, only to be ignored for someone else’s texts or social media. If you anticipate calls or texts, try to handle them before your date. Let your friends know you are going to be busy for a while. You can also put an auto-reply on your phone, so coworkers or clients know you will get back to them later. For best results, silence your phone or put it on its “Do Not Disturb” setting.

Ask your date questions about their daily life and interests. Consider what you want to know ahead of time. Some couples love to talk about their career goals, while others bond through a hobby like sports or music. A first date is an excellent time to discover what brings you together.

Being present is also about being yourself. When you are too worried about the impression you are making, you may lose sight of how much fun you are having together. Trust that your date likes you for who you truly are. After all, serious dating is all about finding someone who loves you for your authenticity.

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1. Be Considerate & Respectful

On a first date, everyone should have their best manners. Make sure the conversation is between you and your date and avoid involving outsiders.

Another thing to keep in mind is how you flirt. With your date’s consent, playful banter and light touching is an excellent way to break the ice. Take things slowly until you and your date can get to know each other. Follow your date’s lead. If you notice them getting uncomfortable, change your approach.

Learning about each other is part of the dating world. Some personalities will clash, while others will find true love. Be curious about each other’s behavior as you spend time together. After all, your date is a chance to find out whether you two are compatible.

1. Go Somewhere Interesting 

If you get the chance to plan the first date, do something out of the ordinary. While you are sure to have fun, you will also remember the date for quite some time. You can start by eliminating the obvious, tired ideas. Avoid movie theaters and loud concerts, which keep you from having an intimate conversation. Think twice about bars since alcohol can affect decision-making.

Select a place where you can talk and enjoy a new experience together. There are plenty of choices, whether you have an hour or an entire day to spend getting to know each other.

Dining together is still a regular first date activity, but think about what makes for a unique experience. A culinary festival or food truck fair can make for a fun bonding experience. Sharing a meal in nature or a picturesque location can have a soothing and relaxing effect. Keep things playful by taking a cooking class or meeting at a breakfast diner for dinner.

Some of the most unique and memorable ideas for a first date include nighttime ghost tours and guided brewery tours. Farms and farmers’ markets have a friendly, rustic appeal. Stargazing is perfect for those who love to be outdoors. If you are looking for something seasonal, go ice skating or take a boat tour. Entertain your inner child with a trip to an old-fashioned ice cream shop or play video games at an arcade.

1. Follow Up Afterward

The best thing you can do after your date is follow up. This is true whether or not you want to see them again. If you enjoyed your date and want to move forward, send them a text by the following day. Let them know you had a great time with them and would love to schedule something for the future.

If you do not want to proceed with the relationship, be honest. Let them know that it simply was not a fit. Thank them for their time and let them know what you enjoyed about their date. It is also a nice gesture to wish them luck in their future dating endeavors. Make sure you avoid ghosting your date, even if sending that follow-up message is awkward. Ignoring someone is not only inconsiderate; it can hurt your reputation in the dating world.

Have an Unforgettable First Date

If you put your personality and some effort into your first date, it will most likely go well. There is also an excellent chance it will be memorable. Be sure to look your best and keep things light-hearted along the way. Regardless of how the night ends, you are sure to feel confident about your half of the experience.