Keep in mind these tips to help avoid disastrous dates: * DON'T put yourself in uncomfortable situations (such as ordering messy food -- unless you're into an erotic feeding scene, like from the movie 9 1/2 Weeks). * DON'T suggest overly expensive places or events for a first date unless you clarify who's paying. * DON'T look at other...

Finally! It's time for your date. Here are some tips to help things run smoothly: * DO feel confident. * DO look your best. * DO smile. * DO address your date by name frequently. * DO compliment your date. * DO listen attentively and repeat things your date says. * DO be honest about whether you're interested in seeing the.....

Tokens on the first date are a nice touch, as long as you don't go overboard (too big, too expensive) and look like you're over-anxious to please. Flowers, some small token you know a person would like (a favorite CD), or something associated to what you're about to do on your date (a can of tennis balls) are appropriate. Back to First Date

Some dates can be fun when they are totally spontaneous and full of surprise. but the first date is better when the basics are planned -- the surprises can come from your interaction and relationship rather than the arrangements. Be prepared about the particulars: * How you are getting to your destination (taxi, bus, train, your own car, car.....

Coming up with something interesting to do has a lot of benefits. It can add excitement to your first date, simply because it's new for either or both of you. It can also show how much fun you can be, and it can set the stage for a good time, no matter what your feelings about each other turn out to be. Be as creative as you can in coming up...

Keep in mind the purposes of a first date. You want to learn about each other, but you may also want to minimize too much intensity, to ease your anxieties. So while you might want to be alone to some extent, you might not want too much aloneness. That means you might not want to go to a party where there are lots of singles. You also might not...

Any place you choose to go, or anything that you do, can be perfect for you if it suits the two of you and makes you feel comfortable. Go with your instincts about this. But consider the pros and cons of certain situations, and decide whether you can come up with something a little more creative in this new age. The most common answer anybody...

Grooming Looking your best is not just a matter of the clothes you wear, but also how you take care of your entire body and appearance. Looking your best is important not only for the impression you make, but for feeling good about yourself as well. Cleanliness It might seem insulting to even mention, but it deserves a respectful...