You can go to a place you know well. That way, you can talk about all it offers, like the best appetizers, drinks, or performers. You can also try a spot you’ve never been to. Tell the person you’re dating it’s your first time and that you’re glad it’s with them. Decide if you’d prefer a romantic or casual atmosphere. You might feel more confident in different settings. For example, you might really know your way around wine, or you might know the best tacos in town.

Be well-groomed to enhance the first impression. Shower, pop in a breath mint, and put on a signature scent. Use one statement piece to impress your date. It can be a shirt with a unique print, a swank watch, or a leather bracelet. Keep the rest of your look understated. For example, if you choose to style your hair, then you can wear a white v-neck and denim jeans.

“Hey! Just cleaned myself up after I hit the gym. I’m excited to start my evening off with you. How was your day?” “Just wrapped up a business class for my program. Way more interesting than it sounds. But more importantly. . . how’re you?” “My friends and I finished a new podcast episode tonight. I made them cut it short because I wanted to meet up with you. What’ve you been up to?”

“What does your ideal day look like?” “How do you love to spend your time?” “So, bam! You’ve just been made leader of a group on a stranded island. What do you do?”

“Oh! Spilled that drink. My bad. Today is not my day… I tell myself every single day. " “Okay, you’ll never believe this, but I think my friend is actually a secret agent. Here’s how I connected the dots…” “This has got to be the priciest pasta I’ve ever seen. It’s all good, though. We deserve it, right? You definitely do!”

You can also verbally encourage them. For example, you can say. “Oh! Hey, there. That feels nice. ” Feel free to dote on them. If they say you’re cute and give you a hug, return the favor. Pull them into a warm embrace and tell them, “Thanks! I think you are, too. ” You can also compliment your date’s physical features. For instance, you can admit, “I’m sorry, but I have to say… you have the most stunning legs. I got a little distracted there. ” Their mind will start to wander, too.

As the hours go by, the talk should get more and more honest. You’ll be more comfortable with each other. If you’re both giving each other a lot of eye contact throughout the whole date, it’s likely that the chemistry between you two is strong. If your date hugs you or becomes even more physical later in the date, they’re expressing attraction to you. You should still check in and see if they’d like the date to go on even longer.

“This was really fun. How would you feel about coming back to my place?” “I’m not ready to call it a day. I’m enjoying myself way too much. I’ve got some great coffee at my apartment. " “I know I’m great, but you haven’t lived until you’ve met my cats. Want to swing by my spot?”

“How would you feel if I kissed you?” “I’ve wanted to kiss you for hours now. May I?” You can even just say: “I’d really like to kiss you right now. "

Make sure your date hasn’t had alcohol or isn’t extremely tired before going to your place. Their decision should be fully informed. Your date should know how they’re going home and that they can leave whenever they want. Pay attention to verbal and non-verbal consent. Verbal consent, like a “yes” or “I want this”, is more clear than non-verbal consent, like body language or a sigh.

Let your date share their preferences with you and tell you the kind of sex they like the most. If you offer to give them a back rub before sex, let them enjoy the massage instead of using a “quid pro quo” arrangement. “Quid pro quo” means you get back exactly what you give. Be willing to re-negotiate sex throughout the night. Your date might decide they want to be less intimate, or they may be comfortable with a new option.

If you’re having casual sex, you and your date should use protection and get tested at least every six months. It’s best to have basic products like personal lubricants already stocked up. That way, you’ll have what you need for your date and the night will go more smoothly. You and your date might have needs for emotional safety. Maybe they want you to text the next day, or maybe you want to have breakfast in the morning.

Ask about how comfortable they are. Maybe they need a hot bath or some water. Encourage them to talk about their emotions. They might want extra affection or feel more secure staying over. Some studies suggest that your date will feel more satisfied with the sex they’ve had if you hug them afterward.

“Last night was phenomenal. I’d love to take you out on another date. " “This was really fun. I just wanted to let you know that I’m not looking for anything serious. ” “I’m totally down to stay friends and catch up when we’re both free. "