How to Approach a Blind Date Gracefully Going on a blind date can be a nerve wracking experience for anyone, and with the rise of online dating, it is more common than ever before. Knowing the right way to approach a first date could mean the difference between compatibility and creepiness. There is a proper etiquette for an introductory meeting just like anything else, and some people are put off by rudeness. You want to make a good impression, so attempt to alleviate any social faux pas with these seven tips. First Contact – Whether you met online or through a mutual friend, first exchange a few direct messages with the person. If you like each other and want to exchange phone numbers, then perhaps it is time to meet up in person.¹ Pick a Place – Go over several options to decide upon the best place to meet for the first time. A more traditional person would expect the man to pick the place, but depending on what you’ve already decided on, this may not be the case. Regardless of who picks the place, it’s generally advisable to select a public location that is comfortable and well lit. Dress to Impress – Wear your favorite outfit, and don’t forget your favorite shoes, your favorite bag, and your favorite pieces of jewelry. If something does not go well, at least you’ll still look great. This will help boost your confidence no matter what happens. Be Open Minded – Going into a blind date with a specific set of expectations is always a huge mistake. The other person can never be as good as the one you have imagined. However, you shouldn’t expect the date to be awful either. If you go into a situation with feelings of dread, there will not be a good outcome. Be Zen on the first date. You have no way of knowing what is about to happen.² Stay Positive – Even if you know right away that it is not going to work out, don’t give up all hope. You are still out on the town with a new friend, making contacts and socializing with your peers. In these situations, it helps to have a sense of humor and stay positive. Do Something Fun – Sometimes, a one-on-one conversation across the table causes too much pressure. Some of the best first dates involve a fun activity such as skeet shooting or a trip to the zoo. Be creative and try something new you both want to do. Even if your partner is dreadful, you still get to cross something off your bucket list. The Early Exit – Suppose your date turns out to be a complete bore. What then? Cosmopolitan recommends three exit strategies. Pretend to receive an important call that requires your immediate attention and then apologize profusely as you leave. You may also want to feign sickness, or try starting a debate over something ridiculous. Alternatively, as much as you might hate to hurt the other person’s feelings, there’s no shame in simply coming clean and telling your date that you would like to go home.
The awkwardness of the first date has not changed, but more and more people have found success on blind dates because of Internet dating. Be sure to follow these tips for civility and grace when you encounter each other in person for the first time. Company Bio: Alaska Jewelry has been selling jewelry in Sitka, Alaska since 1990. In 2000, they expanded their reach internationally with a new website. This home-town jeweler has been endorsed by Alaska Airlines, Gemological Institute of America, Jewelers Board of Trade, Retail Jewelers Organization, and Worldwide Diamond Importers. Shop their selection of diamonds, alexandrite, motion rings, and more at www.alaskajewelry.com. Sources: 1. http://www.wikihow.com/Survive-a-Blind-Date 2. http://www.glamour.com/sex-love-life/blogs/single-ish/2010/04/10-ways-to-have-anawesome-bli 3. http://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/advice/a3135/how-to-blind-date-0606/