Dating rules have changed a lot. Going out with people you meet on apps is not just normal, it's the standard. But because you didn't meet the old-fashioned way, there are a couple things to keep in mind when you're going on your first date. These eight first date rules will make sure you have a fun, safe time.
For starters, if you have the choice, try meeting people on sites that vet their users. In dating situations, sites like OKCupid have extensive profiles. These can be faked, but a convincing. Download Glimpse - Dating & Meet People and enjoy it on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. We designed this app to get everyone swiping less and talking more because this is where real connection is made.
1. Safety first.
No matter how great your date seems, you don't actually know them yet. Plan a date in a public place and check in with a friend before and after. It might sound excessive, but don't lose sight of the fact that you're meeting a complete stranger.
2. Read their profile.
When you meet up with an online match IRL, the last thing you want to ask is, 'So, what do you do for work?' The answer is probably right there on their profile—remembering specifics about your date will earn you points. All of the information in their profile can serve as icebreakers and conversation starters. Ask to hear more about their job, where they went to college, or that picture they posted of themselves skiing. Thanks to their profile, you'll never run out of things to talk about and you won't have any awkward silences to fill.
3. Keep things casual.
Your first date with someone you meet online doesn't have to be over the top or super romantic. All you need is a setting where you can get to know each other better and see if there's chemistry. Keep it low-key: drinks or a long walk are perfect.
4. Don't set sky-high expectations.
You can get excited about your date, but it's best not to set too high of expectations. You don't know this person yet. There's no telling how it will go. That's not to say you should assume the worst so you won't be disappointed, because that's no fun, either. Find a balance between an optimistic 'it would be great if this worked out' and a realistic 'there are plenty of fish in the sea.'
5. Have an open mind.
It's easy to overanalyze online dating profiles and dismiss people before you even meet them IRL. But the only way to really know if you're compatible with someone is to get together in person and see how it goes. Don't convince yourself of how the date will go before you even have it; keep an open mind, meet them, and go from there. You never know.
6. Be yourself.
Out of all the online dating profiles they saw and out of all the people they could go on a date with, they chose to spend their time with you. Your date liked what they saw in your profile, so there's no reason to be who you think they want you to be.
7. There is no online dating stigma anymore.
These days, meeting people on dating apps is one of the most common ways to make connections and find love. There's no reason to feel embarrassed about going out with someone you met online, so push that idea from your mind and don't give it a second thought.
8. Have fun!
Remember: Online dating is supposed to be fun. You might not find The One every single time, but you can still enjoy getting to know someone and spending a fun night out over drinks, dinner, or a movie. If you're not having fun and it feels too much like work, maybe it's time to take a few weeks or months off from using the apps. They'll be there for you when you're ready to come back.
Putting yourself out there is scary, but these tips will ease you into a first online date. Keep things light, casual, and fun, and who knows? Maybe things will blossom into a long, happy relationship.
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First dates are filled with unknowns: What if you don't hit it off? What if they're nothing like you expected? What if they don't want to share dessert (an immediate red flag)? This is especially true when you're meeting someone in person for the first time. While finding safe first date ideas for your Tinder match may feel like it adds a level of awkwardness to an already awkward situation, it's important to prioritize your safety first and foremost.
There are plenty of precautions you can take before you even meet up for the first time. Experts say it's best not to give away too much personal information (i.e. your full name, your exact address, your social security number and bank routing number) while initially getting to know someone via dating app. No need to disguise yourself entirely (It's kind of necessary for the other person to know what you look like). But maybe wait until you've been a few dates before adding them on Facebook or letting them know your apartment number.
Though it may seem like overkill, it is unfortunately necessary to keep your guard up a little. (Anyone with internet access and a mother has likely heard the dating app horror stories.) Just be smart: let a friend know where you're going to be, meet in a public place, and drive yourself to/from the date. Maybe familiarize yourself with Apple's emergency SOS call feature or download one of these safe dating apps.
And if you're worried about having to come up with a clever first date idea on top of all of that? Have no fear. Here are nine safe first date ideas for you and person you swiped right on.
If you're looking for a daytime date idea, why not go for coffee. A cafe has all the makings of a safe first date meeting point: it's a mutual public space, there will be plenty of people around, and you likely won't be leaving in the dark. Plus, there is coffee.
Interracialmatch app. Again, finding a popular, public place to meet up is one of the easiest ways to ensure your safety. Happy hour is doubly perfect since you know there will be plenty of people around should you not feel safe one-on-one. Dinner at your favorite local restaurant is also a great option if you're looking for public date places and want to limit how much you're drinking.
Nervous about not having enough to talk about on a first date? Cheering on the home team will give you plenty of conversation fodder. While definitely more of a time commitment, you won't have to worry about being completely alone with your date, if you're feeling uncomfortable.
Seeing a band or a comedy show is perfect if you're looking for something with similar safety precautions as a sporting event..but with less sports.
Seeing a band or a comedy show is perfect if you're looking for something with similar safety precautions as a sporting event..but with less sports.
Meeting Someone From Dating App
Experts say goal-oriented date activities can be a great way to foster teamwork. Additionally, a little friendly competition can be a fun way to get to know someone. Bowling is also less isolated than, say, rock climbing or golfing, if you're looking for a date idea that's both safe and active.
Taking a walk can be great for conversation, but it's probably best if you're not meeting someone for the first time on a secluded hiking trail. Try walking and talking around a museum or art gallery for all that great conversation minus the seclusion/bugs.
Still want to take a walk outside? Meet up at your city's zoo. That way you can enjoy some casual conversation outside in a safer way than the aforementioned secluded trail.
Board games and video games are a great date go-to. But, for safety's sake, it's best if you don't meet up for the first date at your place or their place. Instead, check out your local barcade or hang out at a coffee shop that has a stash of board games on hand.
Meeting Someone New
If you aren't sure about committing to sitting down for an entire meal, just meet up for dessert. Stop by ice cream place or hang out at a bakery. You'll feel less pressure stay longer than you're comfortable since no one takes that long to eat a cookie, right? Plus, you can do that cute thing where you each get a different dessert and then share/convince them to give you both desserts.
