First Date Tips That Don’t Feel Awkward
So you scored a first date—awesome! But now the nerves are kicking in. What should you say? Do? Wear? The goal: keep things natural, relaxed, and fun. Here’s how to make your first date feel less like an interview and more like an easy, enjoyable hangout.
1. Pick a Low-Pressure Location
Skip the fancy dinner or loud party. Instead, opt for somewhere casual where you can actually talk—like a coffee shop, park, food truck hangout, or mini-golf course. Shared experiences like walking, people-watching, or playing a game help take pressure off the conversation.
2. Dress Like Yourself (Just a Bit Elevated)
You don’t need to overhaul your style—just be clean, confident, and comfortable. Wear something that makes you feel good and shows your personality. If you’re comfy, you’ll come off more confident.
3. Prep a Few Conversation Starters
Worried about awkward silences? Prep a few easy questions:
- “What’s your go-to comfort show?”
- “What kind of music are you into right now?”
- “If you could travel anywhere this weekend, where would you go?”
These spark fun, open-ended answers—way better than “So... what do you do?”
4. Keep the Vibe Light
You don’t need to talk about deep life philosophies right away. Keep it playful. Share funny stories. Laugh at the weird menu names. Being silly or spontaneous can break tension faster than serious talk.
5. Watch Body Language
First dates aren’t just about what you say. Pay attention to nonverbal cues:
- Are they leaning in or pulling back?
- Do they make eye contact or keep checking their phone?
- Do they mirror your movements (a sign of comfort)?
If the vibe feels off, don’t panic—just pivot. Change the topic or suggest grabbing dessert elsewhere.
6. Be Honest About Your Nerves
It’s totally okay to say, “I was kind of nervous to meet you.” That vulnerability can actually ease tension and make your date feel more relaxed too. Chances are, they’re nervous as well.
7. Have a Backup Plan
If the place you picked is super crowded or not what you expected, have a Plan B—like a walk, a nearby coffee shop, or something simple. Being flexible shows confidence and helps keep the date flowing.
8. Mind Your Phone
Nothing kills connection like constant notifications. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb or flip it face-down. Giving someone your full attention is rare—and makes a strong first impression.
9. Set Realistic Expectations
Not every first date leads to fireworks. And that’s okay. Sometimes it’s just a vibe check. Go in with the goal of getting to know someone—not finding “the one.” You’ll feel more relaxed and genuine.
10. End on a High Note
If things went well, say so! A simple “This was really fun” goes a long way. Want to hang out again? Mention it directly—or even better, suggest something specific: “Next time we should try that new taco place.”
Final Thoughts
The best first dates don’t come from being perfect—they come from being real. Focus on connection, not performance. Be kind, be curious, and most of all—be yourself.
Whether it’s your first first date or your fiftieth, these tips will help you walk away smiling (and maybe even looking forward to date #2).