The Ultimate Guide to Coffee Date: Why It’s Awesome and Tips on How You Can Make It Even Better

1. Definition
2. Advantages
3. Disadvantages
4. Etiquette
5. Location
6. Time
7. Seating
8. Conversation
9. Flirting
10. Outfits
11. Virtual dating

Definition: what is a coffee date?

A coffee date is a social meeting where two individuals who might be interested in a romantic relationship meet over a cup of coffee. Because of its casual and stress-free nature, it makes an excellent first date.

Despite its name, you can replace coffee with any other drinks you prefer. For example, it could be a boba tea date or even a juice date. However, I feel that none of these terms are as catchy and as sticky as the term coffee date. So we’ll be using coffee date as a blanket term for all these other beverages.

So what’s so great about it?

Pro’s: advantages of coffee date — reasons why this is a great date idea

Here are some reasons why you should consider asking your date out for coffee.

1. It’s casual and stress-free. Unlike a picnic date that requires you to prepare food and drinks and a picnic blanket, there isn’t really any preparation for a coffee date. You don’t have to make a reservation and you don’t have to prepare your own food. While you should still wear something nice, there’s no need to dress up, wear jewelry, or wear makeup. It’s like meeting up a friend but with the expectation that it might blossom into a romantic relationship.
2. Your safety is ensured. The cafe staff is nearby and you’re surrounded by other patrons. If the date turns sour, you know where to get help. In fact, because you’re in public, your date is less likely to go seriously wrong. That means you can observe and understand your date in a safe environment. The sense of security also extends to your date, allowing them to feel more at ease which encourages them to enjoy themself better.
3. Coffee is inexpensive. As long as you avoid high-end coffee chains, grabbing coffee is one of the more inexpensive date ideas. Even at an upscale coffee shop, you are unlikely to spend more than $20 on a handcrafted cup of coffee (by the way, that price tag is outrageous). So if everything goes well and you want to stay for a second or third cup of coffee, you can do so without hurting your wallet. Another implication is when your date buys you coffee, you wouldn’t feel like you’re taking advantage of them.
4. You are not getting drunk. Coffee heightens your senses and makes you more aware of your surroundings. Your memory and focus improve when you consume coffee. Unlike alcohol, you won’t get drunk on coffee. There are many reasons why getting tipsy on a first date is a terrible idea. Among the reasons are you’re not being your normal self, you might overshare, and worst of all — things might get sexual prematurely.
5. You can easily cut short or prolong the date. It’s flexible. If the date isn’t going the direction you’re expecting you can always make up some excuse and leave. On the other hand, if your date is exactly how you want it to be and more, you can stay longer or go somewhere else with your date.
6. They work with your schedule. A coffee date can be a long and as short as you want it to be. The ideal times for a coffee date are during weekends in the morning or afternoon – because you can stretch the date afterward by inviting your match for lunch or dinner. However, the best thing about the coffee date is that it can happen whenever both of you are free. That could be during lunchtime or a quick 30 minutes the two of you manage to squeeze out during a weekday morning before heading to work.
7. You get to have meaningful conversations and understand each other better. The great thing (and also the bad thing, more on that in the Cons section below) is that you’re seated across from each other at a small table with nothing to do besides sipping coffee and just talk to each other.
8. You can learn so much from a coffee date. You won’t learn everything there is to them from just one date, whether it’s a coffee date or not. But compared to, say a movie date, you get to observe their behavior. Do they raise any red flags? For example, how do they treat the cafe staff? Do they act like a million dollars? Are they respectful and friendly? What kind of drinks do they prefer? Are they more of a Frappuccino person or do they prefer their coffee to be bold and black? Perhaps they aren’t a coffee person at all, they are just really interested to meet you, and that says a lot about their interest level.

Read also: Ideas for a Double Date

Cons: disadvantages of coffee date — areas where it doesn’t work so well

Meeting for coffee is a terrific first date but it isn’t without its own shortcomings. Below are some reasons why it sucks and solutions to make it better.

1. It’s not the most romantic date idea. A cafe or coffee shop provides an ideal venue for you to talk to your date. But you don’t normally associate these places with romance. I mean, do you find your local Starbucks romantic? I don’t. Solution: find a cozy coffee shop with a romantic atmosphere. Ideally, the music should be relaxing but not too loud. More tips on finding the best venue here.
2. You’re forced to talk to each other, almost continuously. People say silence is golden. But when there are the two of you at the tiny table, seconds of silence feel like decades. Couples who have been together for a long time get away by reading and playing their phones but when you’re on the first date, everything other than paying attention to your date is a taboo. Solution: accept that silence is a natural part of a conversation. Be prepared before the date, ask open-ended questions, talk about your date’s interests, talk about yourself but in moderation.
3. Coffee can have some unpleasant side effects. While it’s true that coffee doesn’t get you drunk, it isn’t without its own side effects. For instance, too much coffee can make you feel jittery. Some people also get nervous from drinking coffee. When you’re jittery and nervous, it might give off the wrong impression to your date. Coffee can also cause frequent urination, although a toilet break can provide some breathing room for each other. Last but not least, it gives you coffee breath. Solution: know your limit. Switch to a different beverage after a cup of coffee or order something other than coffee to drink in the first place. Get water for you and your date to stay hydrated and reduce coffee breath problem.
4. Not everybody is a coffee person. You might be making assumptions that your date drinks coffee. Coffee is a very popular beverage but not everyone enjoys it. Solution: find out if they drink coffee before you ask them out. Go for tea or a cafe that offers beverages other than coffee if they don’t enjoy coffee.
5. It doesn’t feel like a real date. Does your date even know that it’s a date? It’s fine if the two of you are new to each other but if you are friends, meeting over coffee may feel like a one-on-one hangout instead of a date. Solution: make it known that the meeting is a date. If you failed to mention it when you ask them out, try your best to get personal and subtly hint at the nature of the meeting when you’re at the cafe.

How to behave: coffee {date} etiquette

Because coffee is such a casual thing to do, there aren’t really any hard etiquette rules to follow. Below is some common courtesy you should show your date.

• Don’t be late. Time is the most precious commodity. Every one of us gets the same limited amount of the time each day. By agreeing to meet with you, your date is sharing a piece of their life with you. So make sure you respect their time by showing up when you’re supposed to. Speaking of respecting each other…
• Pay attention to your date. Attention to each other is crucial whether you’re on your first date or your 1000th date. Listen and contribute to the conversation. Avoid checking your watch and your phone every minute or worst — keep texting someone else when you’re on a date.

Selecting a venue. Where to grab coffee?

While you can grab coffee virtually anywhere (which includes having coffee literally virtually – as in via a video call), you should avoid locations like your own house or a busy restaurant. Meeting someone new at your house for a first date feels weird and may be dangerous. Restaurants tend to be noisy and make you smell like grease. They aren’t the best place to hold a conversation.

A Starbucks works just fine for this purpose if not a little boring. You’ve been to a Starbucks. You know they aren’t the most romantic place on earth. An ideal meeting place would be an indie boutique coffee shop that is cozy and has great music.

Decide a meeting time. When to meet, how long should it last?

You can do it whenever your schedules open up. But some meeting times are better than the others. For instance, you won’t be able to extend the date if it happens during lunchtime on a workday; you’re prone to insomnia if you meet for coffee in the evening.

The best time for a coffee date is weekend mornings.

Do it after breakfast or have breakfast together. Coffee and morning go hand in hand. Another advantage of doing it in the morning is you can stretch the date if it goes well. “Oh it’s almost noon, do you want to grab lunch?” It’s a natural progression. Perhaps there’s a new movie both of you are interested in watching. Watching a movie after having lunch together sounds like a great way to spend a weekend afternoon with a love interest.

How long should a coffee date be? Well, it is as long as you want it to be. It ranges from minutes to hours. For the first date, I would suggest 30 minutes to an hour.

Picking table, choosing seats

Avoid bar tables. It doesn’t matter if the bar table is facing a window that offers a great view. Why? Because you’re forced to sit side-by-side. This kind of seating arrangement makes it weird to have a proper conversation. It’s like you’re talking to the air or to your own reflection in the window 2 feet in front of you. Pick a table where you don’t have to sit side-by-side. You can either sit across from each other or sit diagonally. Sitting opposite each other gives you a good look at your date, it also encourages eye contact but it can feel too interview-like. Sit diagonally instead. Why? First, it takes off some pressure by not having to look at each other throughout the date. Second, eye contact is as simple as turning your head slightly to the left or to the right. Third, sitting diagonally gives you the option to let your bodies get closer or move away — so if you decide to touch knees or brush against your date’s arm (not in a creepy way), you can.

If the date happens on a crisp spring morning, you and your date might find it pleasant to sit outside. Other times when the days are too cold or too hot, you will be more comfortable staying inside.

What to talk about? Conversation tips and suggested topics

Start by introducing yourselves. Followed by pleasantries. Let the conversation carries you. The more you try to force it the more it feels like a job interview. Nobody likes to feel that way on a date. As you talk, find out if there is anything common between you two and try to explore that particular area where you intersect. That could be anything from school to work or where they live or even their love for a particular app. Anyway, here are a few casual conversation topics to break the ice and to keep the conversation going.

• How was your week? This may sound lame in a dating article but sometimes real-life conversation topics are boring; it’s the people who make them interesting. Ask them how was their week, what did they do, etc. Ask and share. What about you? What did you do? Did you learn a new yoga pose? Share with your date.
• How do you spend your time? You can find out a lot about a person from the answer to this question. Observe their body language as they reply. If they spend a dispropriate amount of time working, do they seem enthusiastic about it?
• How do you spend your free time? Many of us work because we have to. But what happens when there’s free time? What does your date do when they’re free? This is a great opportunity to find out if you share any common interests. A common interest is an excellent conversation topic.
• Talk about yourself. Don’t forget to talk about yourself! Dating and conversation are a two-way street. While you seek to understand your date, your date would also be interested to find out more about you. You can talk about yourself or any topics that interest you.
• Talk about coffee. There are many coffee lovers out there! Maybe your date is one of them. If you’re passionate about coffee and your date is a coffee aficionado, it could mean the start of a caffeine-fueled romance.

How to flirt properly in a cafe: flirting tips

When the date is going in the right direction, how can you spice things up? Granted, you might be sitting in a Starbucks. How can you flirt with your date surrounding by dozens of other customers and cafe staff? Below are some tips to help you out with your coffee flirting needs.

The ground rules for flirting are don’t be creepy and don’t overdo anything.

• Smile strategically. Imagine you’re dating someone. And they’re smiling non-stop. Doesn’t that feel kind of creepy? You know who never stops smiling? Pennywise. So avoid smiling like a maniac. The opposite, though, is just as bad. Don’t be all stoic and cold, show some enthusiasm by smiling from time to time when it feels right. And when you do that, remember to…
• Make eye contact. People say the eyes are the windows to one’s soul. So look your date in eyes from time to time. Not all the time, staring into someone’s eyes for longer than 10 seconds feel creepy no matter what the business article you’ve read says.
• Tease your date. I’m not a believer in negging (offering negative feedback). I think in some cases it does work, but no one should be on the giving or receiving end negging. So tease your date, but do so in a positive way.
• Offer genuine praise. A little flattery goes a long way whether you’re on a date or at a business networking event. The trick is, the praise has to be genuine. It has to come naturally as a response to a certain impressive aspect of your date. There’s no point faking it.
• Nobody is hugging it out or caressing anyone intensively in the cafe. But touching is a crucial part of flirting. If your date is going exceptionally well and you guys are hitting it off, It may be a good idea to sprinkle a little physical contact in your interaction. Start small and remain small. For example, let your knees touch for a second, brush your date’s arm. Come up with an excuse like want to check out their ring or bracelet to hold their hand for a few seconds. Do not overdo it — especially when you’re a guy. It’s like adding salt to your food, the right amount elevates the taste, but adding too much and your food is ruined. The same applies to touching as a flirting strategy on your first date. Touching your date once too many makes you a creep.

What to Wear: Coffee-Date Outfit Ideas

Coffee Date = Casual. So wear something casual and comfortable but make sure that you look like you put some effort into it. Don’t overdress either! No tuxedo, no gown, no ties, no suicide heels. Hoodies and t-shirts and shorts are fair game. But if you want to make it more special, here are some coffee outfit ideas that will work well for a casual date at the cafe.

Outfit Ideas for Women

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDkdU5nlznZ/

1. Sundress + a pair of flats. The perfect outfit for spring, summer, and fall. A fitting sundress instills self-confidence in you and makes you look irresistible. Throw on a pair of flats for extra comfort.
2. Fit & Flare dress + heels. The magical dress type that works for all body types including curvy women. A pair of kitten heels to boost your posture and self-esteem without sacrificing comfort.
3. Button-down shirt, jeans + sneakers or loafers. Casual with a little edge. Go with a top that is soft and comfortable.
4. Bodysuit + high-waist jeggings + ankle boots or a comfortable pair of sneakers. The bodysuit has a slimming effect and visually flattens the extra fat around your waist. High-waist jeggings elongate your legs, making them look longer and slender.

Outfit Ideas For Men

1. White / navy blue button-down shirt and khaki pants – throw on a jacket or hoodie in spring or fall. Complete this outfit with a sports watch and a pair of sneakers.
2. White / pink / blue button-down shirt and jeans – add on a sports jacket if you live in a more dressy neighborhood. Wear something on your hand — ring or bracelet or watch for potential conversation topics. Avoid formal-looking shoes.
3. For a real casual look, wear a plaid button-down shirt with a solid colored t-shirt underneath. Leave the top 1-2 buttons undone. Shorts are OK especially when the weather is great and you guys are sitting outdoor.

Virtual Coffee Date: Alternative During Pandemics

The first draft of this article was written during the Covid-19 pandemic. During a pandemic, it’s not safe to meet in areas where the risk of infection is high. To work around this problem, dating has turned virtual. A virtual coffee date is when two people meet virtually for coffee from two different locations. This usually happens in the form of a video call through a smartphone or a webcam.

Why not just do a video call? For one, a phone call is not a date. It lacks the ritualistic aspect and it also doesn’t have a natural time limit. Meeting virtually for coffee gives you a sense of an actual date. The time you spend drinking a cup of coffee is the subtle time limit for this date. When the time is up, you get a good excuse to say bye if your date isn’t what you expect. Another advantage this has over a coffee-less phone call is that you don’t have to talk non-stop. You can sip some coffee when you think of what to talk about next.

Couples who are in a long-distance relationship will find this kind of date a welcoming change to their routine video call. It’s a cute and fun thing to do with your partner.

A virtual date will never replace a date in real life but it’s a pretty good compromise if you can’t meet in person, for one reason or another.

Coffee as a Date: Yay or Nay?

Meeting over a cup of coffee is a great way to get to know someone new. It’s casual, stress-free, and safe. It excels as a first date because it’s inexpensive and flexible. Not without any shortcomings but you can overcome its weaknesses if you put a little effort into it. Now that you know the ins and outs of the coffee date, do you think it would work for you and your date?

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The post Coffee Date: All You Need to Know appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

Related: 10 First Date Tips: Advice for Girls and Women

1. Call A Friend

It is not unusual to feel like you are on cloud nine after a first date. On the other hand, you may be wondering what the other person thought of the date. Talking it out with a close friend can often be the best way to determine the next step. A friend can give you a new perspective you may not have seen. They can also help you analyze how the date went and if and when a second one should occur. This makes it perfectly clear what you need to do next. Sometimes we have tunnel vision after a date and talking to a friend can help us see the bigger picture. Friends are your biggest advocates but also your biggest protectors. They will help steer you in the right direction.

2. Determine Your Feelings

Self-reflection should also be done after any first date. It is important to determine how it made you feel. If it left you energized and wanting more, a second date is in order. However, you have to know what you need and want in a partner. If you don’t see any signs of these things on your date, a second one wouldn’t necessarily be a good idea. Any feelings of discomfort or unease after a date should be taken into consideration. Ultimately, you want a partner that makes you feel good and that you can feel good about.

3. Take Your Time (But Not Too Much)

Though sometimes dating may feel like a rat race to happiness, you should never approach it as if it is. A second date shouldn’t be avoided forever, but it doesn’t need to take place immediately after the first one. That cloud nine feeling can be deceptive sometimes. This is why it is important to take some time to reflect after a first date. Before you make a decision about a second date give yourself time to get your feet firmly planted in the ground again. It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of meeting someone new. Don’t let that lead you astray. At any rate, get a good night’s sleep after an amazing first date. It will help clear your head and give you clarity into how it actually went.

With this clarity, you can ascertain if you want to see the person again. Sometimes in the light of day you can see your date with a new perspective. It may hit you that the person said or did something you didn’t like. Or it may hit you that you and this person have a lot more digging to do to get to know each other.

4. Decide If There’s Going To Be A Second Date

In today’s world, women are making strides towards equality with men. However, dating culture hasn’t really caught up with that idea. So while a woman’s first instinct may be to reach out to her date, Psychology Today advises against it. The general consensus is that men prefer to be the one to initiate a second date. If you are a woman who has just been out on an amazing date, sit back and bask in it. If he feels the same, you should be getting a call soon. And if he doesn’t you save yourself the embarrassment of rejection.

5. Plan A Second Date Carefully

The second date should never be a carbon copy of the first date, no matter how well it went. If you do decide on a second date, and the other person agrees, try to hit the opposite end of the spectrum. Was your first date at a laid-back coffee shop? Then make the second date a little more stimulating. This lets you see a different side of the person and lets them see a different side of you. It can be a great way to get to know someone on a more intense level.

What Other Things You Should Be Doing After The First Date?

The first date with someone new can be daunting. If there is a second date, you may feel more relaxed and better able to open up to the other person. The key to successful dating is getting the timing right. Knowing what to do and when to do it can put you on the road to happiness. In some ways, a first date is like an audition. You want to see and be seen, but you also want to make a positive impression. When you are focused on your end game, dating can be such a beautiful experience.

Related Articles

Other first date articles

• 55 First Date Ideas
• 10 First Date Tips for Girls and Women
• 5 Things To Do After The First Date (This Article)
• Worst First Date Idea

The post 5 Important Things To Do After a First Date appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

1. Classic dinner & movie

Nothing says “first date” like dinner and a movie. It’s a great way to split the time between getting to know each other and, well, just spending time together.

Pro tip: start with the movie first. This gives you the chance to have an experience together that you can talk about while you mull over the menu at dinner.

2. Meet at the zoo

If you and your date are looking for a fresh take on the first date, try monkeying around a bit! Going to the zoo is a fun activity for anyone. It’s a comfortable place for animal-lovers and plenty of attractions to keep the conversation going. You’re sure to learn a lot about someone by seeing their reactions to wildlife.

3. Have a DIY night

DIY nights have become a popular choice for daters of all ages. It’s a chance to go somewhere, get creative together, and bring home a memento from what will (hopefully) be a great first date. Try out paint night, make your own terrarium or any other fun crafts your city has to offer!

4. Take a cooking class

Nothing’s quite as romantic as making your date dinner. On a first date, you might not want to take that step just yet, so making it together can be a great interactive option. You get to see each other’s culinary knowledge and learn some more tips to put in your arsenal. It could also lead the way to some follow-up dinners if all goes well.

5. Play Escape the Room

Escape the Room is an interactive adventure where groups are put in a riddle-fooled room and tasked with breaking themselves out. It takes a lot of teamwork and brain exercises, making it a stimulating first date experience for intellectual hopefuls. This will definitely put your compatibility, and tempers, to the test, so make sure your date knows what they’re in for!

6. Attend trivia night

Pair up as a team on your first date for trivia night. It takes the competitiveness between you away and forces you to work together to win. With the same end-goal in mind, you’re sure to be on the same page and get a chance to see the impressive knowledge your date has stored away.

7. Schedule a doggie-date

It may seem like a tough task to come between man (or woman) and their dog. If you have a dog, too, it turns from obstacle to opportunity. Proud pet parents love taking their furry friends out for a playdate. Both couples are sure to have a good time. Similarly, if you’re cat owners, you might want to host a meet and greet for the kitties. Although being cautious in nature, the cats might not get a long immediately.

8. Go to karaoke

For those with the voice (or the guts) to try out karaoke on a first date, it will definitely be a date to remember. Turn up to a place where you can sign up and watch who dares to take the stage. Once you have a few drinks, you’ll either decide to duet or decide you’re better off watching others flop through lyrics. You may even get to find out their favorite song!

9. Stop by a flea or farmer’s market

Browsing local goods together is a great way to give back, spend time well, and learn a lot about each other. The shopping experience will show what your date finds most important to spend money on, giving you some good ideas for next time. Extra-points for picking up some fresh-cut flowers.

10. Let’s grab coffee

The best way to get to know someone better is over a cup of coffee. The black liquid stimulates the mind and loosens the tongue. Usually done at a café and with one or more cups of coffee (hence the name coffee date), you can do it pretty much anywhere and with any beverage that you prefer. Tips: pick a cozy location that has a great atmosphere — bonus point if their music playlist is awesome. To minimize surprises, pick a café that you have been to before. Check out this list of questions aka conversation starters before you go so you can always keep the conversation going.

Sometimes the best way to start a healthy relationship is by doing something fun. Here are some fun date ideas you should try out.

11. Attend a comedy show

Nothing cures nervousness like a good laugh. Comedy shows are the perfect way to make your night easy, fun, and enjoyable. First dates are much less awkward when there are some laughs in the mix – just don’t get yourselves call out by the performer unless you both have a REALLY good sense of humor!

12. Take bar-hopping tour of the city

A date over drinks is nice, but it can be far more exciting and impressive if you turn it into sightseeing. This is an especially attractive option if your date is new to town. Round up some of your favorite bars in the neighborhood, and keep the pace of the date steady by popping in for a drink at each. It also takes the pressure off picking the one perfect fun place.

13. Try whiskey/wine tasting

Date drinks are always a favorite since they help break down barriers. Wine or whiskey tasting puts a fun spin on it. You’ll learn a lot about your date’s taste preferences while getting to expand your own palate in the meantime. Since you’re in it together, it gives you plenty of room to share thoughts, opinions, and anecdotes as the liquor flows.

14. Take a boat ride

Whether it’s in NYC’s Central Park or your local lake, pushing off the dock in a boat for some quality time with a date is a surefire way to make sure you both have each other’s attention. It’s a nice relaxing way to spend some time in nature and with each other. Bring some snacks or a bottle of wine so you’ve got all your bases covered and you’ll both be happy to be spending a little time isolated from the land.

15. Catch a live concert

No matter what town or city you live in, there’s sure to be a band playing somewhere on some night during the week. Make that night your date night and enjoy the experience of live music together. Whether it’s in a park or in a bar, it will make for a great fun time dancing, drinking, and enjoying the sweet sounds of a possible new romance.

16. Conquer a theme park

If your budget allows, Disneyland and Universal Studios are fun day trips to take. If not, you can always find a smaller theme park with a few Google searches. Find one that offers rides that make you feel like your heart is beating out of your chest. Parks with great roller coaster rides are a good start. Why? Well, according to scientific studies, you become more attracted to each other if you participate in adrenaline-inducing activities (such as riding a roller coaster).

17. Exercise your lungs at a karaoke bar

This the ultimate time to show off that golden voice! If you want to make a good impression, practice beforehand, choose the genre you sing best. If you’re not really a songbird, don’t sweat too much about it. Just be yourself, let those vocal cords do their thing. If your date can accept you at your worst, then he definitely deserves you at your best!

Don’t overthink it. The first date is just like any other date. The last thing you want is to stress out. Below are some cute date ideas that are stress-tree.

18. Hit the ice cream parlor

A date at the ice cream parlor or the ice cream stand at the local park — it’s your choice — but having a place to sit down helps make the cute date more comfortable. Find out their favorite ice cream flavor before the date and order it during the date for them as a surprise. Or maybe your date doesn’t take ice cream because they’re lactose intolerant. See? You’re already getting to know each other even more.

19. Have fun with puppies

Who wouldn’t love these little creatures? They’re so irresistible, so lovable and fluffy! If you don’t have any, volunteer to walk the neighbor’s cute dog, or head out to the shelter. As the saying goes, “A dog is a man’s best friend”. It’s true, you’ll never know what wonders a dog can do to both of you. If one of you is a cat owner, have some playtime with the kitty cat instead. Every cat is different and has different personalities and likes and dislikes. So your activity may vary from bringing the cat out to explore the world on a leash to brush her fur on the couch while watching a movie.

20. Try trampoline parks

Yes, you might sweat a bit, but you can turn this around to your advantage. Practice those sexy sweat-wiping moves and master your facial expressions (like closing your eyes while wiping your neck). Aside from your boobs bouncing up and down, this one is a sure hit!

21. Be a scaredy-cat, go ghost haunting

It may not sound too intimate, but this one could work like a charm when played well. Hang out at the local cemeteries, or scout for a spooky house. At least now you’ll have the best excuse to snuggle close, be clingy, and throw your hands around your date.

22. Feel the rush, do an Escape room

Have you heard of these games? It’s a good bonding activity to get you closer together. Google where you could find these escape rooms and go for it! Feel the thrill, solve the mystery, work hand in hand to make your way out. What an exciting first date!

23. Look sporty, go bowling

Hit the alley with your signature moves, make a statement, and exhibit a friendly competition. Ask to improve your skills. Stand next to each other, your bodies whipping up that friction. Feel those manly arms around you while he teaches you the right pose.

24. Play some two-player games

It doesn’t matter what game it is, it could be arcade, a PC game, or a mobile game. Some girls usually hate their boyfriends for being so into games. Let him feel you’re different, be a tag team and go for the win! Bash those trash talkers and represent!

25. Do a photoshoot

Dress up, make cute funny faces, strike a pose. Take a snapshot of those memorable moments. Laugh, reminisce, and exchange thoughts. Create scenes, portray characters, let your imagination take you to the next level.

Not the planning type? Take it easy with one of these casual first date ideas that take things slow.

26. Quick lunch

Nothing is more casual than a lunch date. Not just any lunch date, one that is quick — usually squeezed between classes or when you have to go back to work in another 30 mins. This date blurs the line of a date and just lunch. Talk about life, school, or work while you eat. Get to know each other a little bit more before deciding if they’re worth your investment.

27. Grab Coffee

You can grab coffee anytime during the day. It’s the quickest type of date to organize and most affordable too. Not too much to spend with some coffee and a couple of bagels. Take this time to have a meaningful conversation, but stay casual, don’t push too much though! You don’t want your date to think you’re creepy.

28. Evening Stroll at the Park

Why evening? Night time usually promotes a sense of intimacy. Just a quiet walk, holding hands, and having a casual conversation would already making its own way towards a whole new level of connection and attraction.

29. Feed the local pond creatures

If you want to unwind and let out all that stress that’s been piling up from a week’s work, take this chance to feel the tranquility of nature with your date. Feel relaxed and refreshed, breathe in the natural smell of the air. Be a little cheeky by splashing him with pond water every now and then.

30. Watch a Blockbuster Movie

Always the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to dates. Do your research. Know what your date likes, surprise him with tickets to the movie he’s been longing to see. Take out some mouth-watering snacks and forget about your non-carb diet this day.

On a shoe-string budget? No worries, we have all been there. Here are some cheap date ideas that are affordable but fun nonetheless.

31. Play some arcade games

Arcade games are a great way to stir up some nostalgia and have a few laughs along the way. If your date is into a little friendly competition, arcades are a great place to let loose and show off some skills for the cost of a pocket full of quarters. Did we mention that it’s cheap?

32.  Visit a museum

Museums are one of the best, least demanding dates there are. There are always classic, contemporary, or rare pieces of art to explore and discuss while you learn more about your date. It’s a casual walk through a beautiful building and most of the conversation is built from the surrounding artwork. This is an excellent date idea for introverts.

33. Stop by a record store

“When words fail, music speaks.” Music is a magnificent way to share what you’re into. It can be wildly personal or surprisingly relatable thumbing through some vinyl. Learning what bands are artists you share an interest in can make things all the more special next time you meet up. The vinyl records may not be cheap but checking them out and, if you’re lucky, listening to the demo are things that you can do for free.

34. Go bowling

A good game of bowling can be a wonderful bonding experience. You share one lane and tally up each other’s score, with just a hint of competitive nature. Plus, depending on the bowling alley, there’ll probably have some light snacks and dancing available if you want to move into a new activity.

35. Have a picnic

Everyone likes to spend a sunny date outside with nowhere to go. Pack a nice picnic lunch and head your local park to soak up the sun. It’s lowkey, low cost, low pressure. Plus, you have the added bonus of entertainment: people watching!

36. Go for a hike

Two people who are already nature-lovers will undoubtedly have a great time in the great outdoors. Gear up and meet at the base of your favorite trail or summit and spend the day breathing fresh air, spotting wildlife, and sharing your love of nature.

37. Play tennis

38. Become rivals at the bowling alley

39. Karaoke!

40. Stargaze

41. Picnic!

Check out 80 Cheap Date Ideas: Ultimate Guide to Frugal & Fun Dates for more frugal dates like these.

Although challenging, you can absolutely spend quality time with each other without spending any money. Here are some free date ideas that don’t involve money.

42. Spend time at the beach

Public beaches are great dating spots that are open to everyone. Do your homework before the date. Find a beach near you or one that is less popular if you want to stay away from the crowd. You probably won’t have a crowd problem if you go there during cooler months. Yes, the beach is fun to visit even when it’s not summer. If you aren’t comfortable, skip the swimwear and go in a beach-inspired attire instead. Take a stroll along the shoreline with your date. Enjoy the ocean breeze and the sound of a thousand waves as they hug the shore.

43. Visit an art exhibition at the local college

Local colleges and universities routinely organize exhibitions (for example, art exhibitions by their students or alumni) that are free for the public to visit. Pay extra attention to their website, Facebook page, and Twitter profile for this kind of events. You should definitely take advantage of this if you’re a broke college student (like most students are). Even if you’re not broke, attending such exhibitions is a great way to show some support to the community.

44. Hike as a couple

Hike the familiar local trails or challenge a new trail in a nearby county. If both of you are into physical activities, the kind that gets your adrenaline pumping for free, hiking is the way to go.

45. Spend time at the library

The best first date for book lovers. In addition to books and magazines that you can read for free, the library also provides free air conditioning. Lose yourselves in the labyrinth of books. The only way out is a kiss between two new lovers in an unseen corner among the books.

46. Quick date at the local park

Rejoice if you’re blessed with a good local park. The park is a perfect spot for your first date, especially if you don’t know your date well enough. Go when the park is busy. The crowd is perfect for the people watching that you do in between conversations. Find somewhere to sit down — perhaps the bench or on the grass. Have lighthearted conversations to get to know each other better. If the date doesn’t go well, you can always excuse yourself easily without feeling awkward — you can exit the park in all directions. If the date goes well, you can extend the date into perhaps a coffee date, or schedule for a second date another time.

Here are more date ideas that won’t cause you a dollar.

47. Go biking

48. Check out the local farmer’s market

49. Visit free exhibition at the local college

50. Volunteer for the animal shelter

51. Play card games or board games

Have A Great First Date!

Although meeting someone new can seem intimidating, the list of first date ideas proves that it doesn’t have to be boring or nerve-wracking to be a successful first date! Shake things up from the norm and you may find that while impressing your date, you impress yourself as well. After all, nailing a creative outing is sure to leave a lasting impression and they’ll surely want to see what else you have in store next time you meet up.

Share These Date Ideas to Pinterest

Other first date articles

• 55 First Date Ideas (This Article)
• 10 First Date Tips for Girls and Women
• 5 Things To Do After The First Date
• Worst First Date Idea

The post 51 Best First Date Ideas to Enjoy appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

Practical First Date Tips: 10 Do’s and Don’ts for Women

So he’s asked you out! All those flirting and hinting has finally paid off. As you rejoice in front of your wardrobe though, you might be wondering what you can do on your end to keep this from being a flop like unpleasant dates of your past and to keep yourself safe. You might not be able to control the guy, but you can use a few tips to make things go as smoothly as possible before, during, and after the first date.

Tip #1. Just relax

First dates are certainly nerve-wracking, but calm yourself. He asked you out so he’s obviously interested. Don’t get all uptight and clam up, but don’t turn into a babbling brook either. Do something that relaxes you right before the date so you’re more likely to be yourself, the person he will go wild for.

Tip #2. Dress the part

Depending on where he’s taking you is what you’ll rifle through your closet for. If it’s dinner and a movie, dress nice but not overly nice. If you’re going on an adventure, leave those high heels behind.

Tip #3. Leave controversial topics out of the mix

There is always time to delve deeper into serious conversations. Opening with religious or political beliefs isn’t the best way to kick off the first date, even if it turns out you have the same beliefs. This date should be a fun one, so enjoy it! If your date is a fellow coworker, you might not want to discuss work so much.

Tip #4. Always keep someone in the loop

We want to believe the best in people, yet it’s important to keep yourself safe. Let your best friend or your family know where you’re going and who with. Write down as many details about who your date is so heaven forbid something happens, your loved ones will know where to look.

Tip #5. Never get in the car with someone you don’t know

It’s what our parents told us as kids but even as an adult, it’s better safe than sorry. If you only know each other from online, make sure you meet him somewhere. That meeting place should be a brightly-lit and populated place too.

Tip #6. Don’t do all the talking

Just like your eyes glaze over when a date goes on and on about himself, don’t be that girl either. The first date should be like a ping pong match. The conversation should go back and forth, respectfully taking turns.

Remember to have fun![/caption]

Tip #7. Drink responsibly

Your date could very well be a saint, but going out as you know has plenty of inherent dangers. Be aware of your surroundings (even other guys can be a problem). Plus, you don’t want to frighten off a nice guy by getting too out of control on your very first date.

Tip #8. Be open-minded

He may not seem like your type, but he could get you laughing. Try not to be too judgy until you know a little more about your date. The first date is all but just a sample — the tip of an iceberg. Don’t give up immediately or be overly picky because of a few mistakes he makes or because he seems awkward, chances are he is stressed out in front of the girl he likes.

Tip #9. Watch for negative signs

By the same token, you should also pay attention to your gut. It’s one thing to just not feel a connection with someone. It’s quite another to get the heebie-jeebies. If your date makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, make sure you have a plan for bailing if you need to. At most restaurants and bars, you can discreetly alert staff to help escort you out of there safely.

Tip #10. Be a good date

Assuming you jive, be a good date by listening and participating in the conversation. If he’s paying, don’t order the most expensive things on the menu. And above all, whether you’d like to see him again or not, be sure to thank him for taking you out.

Taking care of yourself and conducting yourself accordingly should ensure your first date goes much more smoothly.

Other Dating Tips For A Woman’s First Date

Conversation Tips: Questions to Ask Him

Trying to save money? Try one of these 80 cheap date ideas.

What’s your best-kept secret in ensuring a successful first date? Any funny events that happened? What about your first EVER date with your first lover?

Related Articles

• 55 First Date Ideas
• 10 First Date Tips for Girls and Women (This Article)
• 5 Things To Do After The First Date
• Worst First Date Idea

The post 10 Practical First Date Tips: Advice for Girls and Women appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.