In the past, having a first date with someone on Valentine’s Day was considered a major faux pas. However, that kind of thinking may be, excuse the pun, dated. So, if you’ve scheduled a first date this Valentine’s Day, here’s how to handle it like a pro!
Keep It Casual
There is no need to choose an expensive restaurant just because it’s Valentine’s Day. If you typically grab coffee on a first date, this is the day to continue that tradition. Keeping things as close to normal as possible helps minimize any pressure surrounding the holiday.
Lean Into It
If you and your date are on the same page, you could even go the opposite way and lean into the clichés that surround Valentine’s Day. Go all out with flowers, chocolates, and teddy bears – and don’t forget to invest in chocolate strawberries. By poking fun at the corporate nature of the holiday, you may be able to break the ice and have a laugh!
Be Clear About Expectations
A first date has enough pressure, so there really isn’t any reason to add any more. For that reason, be clear about your expectations beforehand. For example, you can mutually agree to a “no gifts” policy. Talk things out, and don’t leave your expectations ambiguous; it’ll just add extra stress to the situation.
Plan Something Fun
A Valentine’s Day first date could be an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and do something you otherwise wouldn’t, such as taking a dancing, cooking, or painting class. Getting a little creative with your plans can help put the focus somewhere else, minimizing the heaviness of the day. Plus, it’ll make for a really cute story if things work out. (Let us know when the Hallmark movie about your life comes out!)
Don’t Dress Up Too Much
A first date is usually a relatively casual affair, so don’t change that just because it’s Valentine’s Day. Dress according to the date you have planned, and don’t feel the need to formalize it. This is another area in which setting expectations can help as well!
Note That Not Everyone Will Be On Board
If you ask someone out for a Valentine’s Day first date, note that not everyone will be on board with the idea. Just because you can separate the day from the date doesn’t mean that everyone can, so don’t take rejection personally. Conversely, if you were asked out on a date, don’t feel obligated to say yes just because it’s Valentine’s Day. Before agreeing, make sure you’re comfortable with the idea, just as you would with any other date.
Talk About It
The key to a successful Valentine’s Day date is to talk things out. Discuss your plans, keep communication open, and lean into the awkwardness. If you do those things, you’ll undoubtedly have a good time, build a strong connection, and enjoy every part of the experience.
Do you have any Valentine’s Day first date experiences? Share them with us in the comments below!