subject: Fresh, Fun First Date Ideas [print this page] We have all been there--we all know precisely how nerve-wracking that first date can be, even if there seems to be plenty of chemistry. Sometimes the deciding factor in whether a first outing leads to a second is not, in fact, the two people involved, but the environment selected for the initial steps of courtship. That means that the planning of the first date is everything.
Believe it or not, the traditional "dinner and a movie" idea is not necessarily a bad one. But why don't we switch it around? A movie followed by dinner guarantees that you have something to talk about over your meal, whereas a dull dinner can make you grateful that you shouldn't be talking during a movie.
Or, you can have dinner first and go for a treat like ice cream or have dessert at another restaurant in order to discuss the movie to continue bonding and getting to know one another. When you choose a film, you may want to see something that is a little off the beaten Hollywood track. For example, you may want to find an independent film playing near you.
When you choose a restaurant, make sure that you check out reviews for local places online so you can get a good idea of what to expect. After all, it doesn't make a great impression on a date if you are complaining that your pizza is taking too long or your steak isn't cooked as you ordered. If you know that the restaurant you might have been thinking of has a reputation for such things, you can make another choice.
Try something new and goofy together, or have one of you teach the other something. For example, I have a somewhat underappreciated skill: I can make pottery by hand, so I can teach a date how to make a basic ceramic jar or cup. It's messy, it's fun, and it requires ongoing instruction, so we won't have to worry about awkward silences!
If the weather is nice, then get outdoors to do something that pushes you to your limits. Go rock climbing, horseback riding, or hiking. This should give you a glimpse of beautiful views in your area, but gets you away from the hustle and bustle of the demands of the city--and the demands of traditional dating.
Get back to your childhood. Plan a board game or video game night. This will let you have fun in the purest way, while getting a little competitive. Don't overdo it, though, as this may be a turnoff for some people.
Learn to kick back, laugh at yourself, and have tons of fun, even if you aren't sure about the romantic future with your date. You are more likely to part friends, even if it doesn't work out, if you are confident and joyful.
