First Date Tips

From LoveToKnow Dating
For many people, first dates are about as much fun as a trip to the dentist's office, but a few simple first date tips can eliminate any unnecessary pain. When done correctly, first dates are a great way to gauge chemistry, compatibility, and communication.

Location, Location, Location
If you are planning the date, you have a huge advantage. The most successful first dates are the ones in which both parties feel completely at ease. Although it is tempting to go all out on the first date, low-key plans are better. If the date goes well, you'll have plenty of time later to wow your partner with your elaborate plans. When thinking about the perfect location for your first date, consider the following first date tips:
The less complicated, the better. Avoid drawn-out, multi-part dates. These leave too much room for unexpected surprises. An evening that flows is much more relaxing.
Pick a nice, simple restaurant. No one wants to be worried about the proper fork to use or how to pronounce restaurant items.
A laid back, fun date will allow both parties to relax. Comedy clubs, sporting events, and concerts are good bets to lighten the mood.
As cheesy as they sound, bowling, miniature golf, go-carts, and video arcades can all be fun, icebreaking dates. Laughing over a crashed go-cart can quickly erase tension and lead to an air of familiarity
Dress to Impress
It goes without saying, but you should definitely be neatly groomed for the first date, a seemingly obvious first date tip. Love may be blind, but first dates are not. Here are some first date tips for your wardrobe:
Dress appropriately for the date. If you are going to a basketball game, jeans would be far better than a formal dress. As much as you'd like to show off your new outfit, you'll only look foolish if you're overdressed.
Do not dress too seductively. Even if you typically dress in a sexy way, tone it down a bit for the first date. Extremely provocative clothing can be distracting. It can also give the impression that you are only looking for a physical encounte
Be Yourself, But Not Too Much
The conversation is probably the most important part of the first date. Through talking to your date, you'll quickly find out if you have anything in common and if you are at all compatible.
While it is important to be yourself, it's more important to be your best self. You are just getting to know each other and certain things are better left unsaid--for now. Some first date tip conversation pointers include:
Avoid potentially polarizing debates. The first date is not the appropriate time to discuss views on the death penalty, abortion, same-sex marriage, or any other hot topics.
Leave the past behind. Resist the urge to entertain your date with stories of your abusive childhood, painful divorce, or complicated relationships. Although these subjects are part of you and may very well need to be discussed, this is not the right time.
Be upbeat. We are naturally more attractive when we are being positive. Now is not the time to launch into a tirade about your rotten luck, terrible year, or awful job. Find something pleasant to discuss.
Many first date tips advise daters to make a list of conversation starters. That's good advice, to a point. If the conversation is flowing, you will probably not need such a list. If, however, there is an awkward lull, turn to your list, but make it as natural as pos
Getting Physical

The big question used to be, "Should I kiss on the first date?" That has evolved into, "Should I have sex on the first date?" While there is no right answer, there is one answer if you are looking for a long-term relationship: Wait. Sex too early in the game can actually be an obstacle on the road to real commitment.
If, on the other hand, you are looking for casual sex, only you know when the time and conditions areAbout that Kiss
As for the kiss, follow your heart--and your hormones. Times have changed in this department, and kissing on the first date no longer has negative connotations. If you enjoyed the date, felt a real spark, and would love to have a second date, go ahead and pucker up.

Most Important First Date Tip
The most important first date tip of all is to be honest. As the night draws to a close, you will have probably made up your mind about the compatibility. While honesty can be awkward at times, it is always better to be upfront about your feelings.
Don't say you'll call if you never intend to.
Avoid saying, "Let's do it again," if you know there will be no second date.
If you did have a great time, say so. Both men and women are often insecure in the dating game, and everyone enjoys knowing where they stand.
In Conclusion
Dating is not nearly as painful as we all make it out to be. Just be honest, be yourself, and have fun, and soon you'll be the one giving out the first date tip