First date nerves? Here are some tips to get prepped

So a first date’s on the cards! But now comes the overwhelming mixture of emotions in preparation for what could be a great moment and the start of something new – or a day all parties involved would rather forget. Here’s to a positive outcome – but, in the meantime, Fluttr, the newest online dating app, has offered some of their best tips to help get prepared for a first date, getting members feeling excited and optimistic rather than jittery and nervous. 

Who? What? When? Where?

If the date’s already sorted, readers can skip to tip two! But, for those who have agreed to a date and are still pondering the final details, it’s worth having a plan that suits both people on the date and their varying comfort levels. Knowing what time the date will be, where it will be and how to get there will contribute to feeling much more confident on the day. 

There’ll be no need to worry about checking dinner reservations while trying to get teeth brushed or booking a taxi while tying shoelaces if this has all been pre-arranged. Organisation will make for a much smoother date experience. 

Wear something for confidence

Confidence is key! An outfit can practically make or break how a person feels about themselves. With an outfit that is both comfortable and happy-wearing, confidence can shine from within. This doesn’t have to be a brand new look – grabbing something reliable from the wardrobe that feels good on will do the trick. This could be a go-to, sexy LBD, jeans or for the men a trusty pair of dress trousers. 

Prepare some conversation starters

No, it isn’t necessary to rehearse the entire evening’s conversation but for those who feel particularly awkward and uncomfortable during moments of silence, preparing some conversation starters can’t hurt. How about these for some great topics: 

• What they do for work
• Their family and friends
• Hobbies
• Pet peeves
• Aspirations and goals for life and love 

This is a chance to get to know someone, so it’s good to try one’s best to keep the conversation flowing and learn as much about them as possible, without crossing boundaries!

Enjoy the getting ready process

This process is the ideal time to get composed and collect one’s thoughts. 

For people living with friends or flatmates, getting ready with their assistance may help with nerves. They could help pick out a nice outfit, play favourite music or pour a drink for some dutch courage! Whatever works… 

If it feels better to be alone, that works too. A hot, steamy shower using some favourite products could give that added confidence boost, as could listening to a favourite podcast or playlist to calm the nerves, and organising an outfit so there’s no running out the door at the last minute. 

The editorial unit