Cool It, Gents

Taking a girl out for a date is not just about taking her for a spin in your Saab and introducing her to gustatory delights in a classy uptown restaurant. It's about making your first date sweet and memorable, not one of those misadventures of Titanic proportions that you'd rather not think about. Thus, if you have decided to take a girl out, make sure she is someone you indeed want to share your time with. The rest will be easy.

Whether you choose to take a girl out for a cup of caffe latte, a grand buffet, or a dreamy dinner by the bay, make sure preparations are made ahead of time. If reservations are required, do it ahead, and prepare everything you'll have to take along with you, especially your wallet. There's nothing more embarrassing than blurting out red-faced that you've left your wallet behind. The word will spread fast, and there's little you can do to repair a tattered reputation.

Other costly scenarios are running short on cash and gas and making your date wait for ages before you make an appearance. Incidents like this can happen to you if you take a careless approach in planning your first crucial date with a girl you'd been dying to take out. One disastrous date can destroy your chances to take the lady out again.

Unless you know her very well or you share the same interests, avoid going overboard by taking along a hip flask, though you can wear those Batman cufflinks for a conversation piece to break the ice.

The Woman's Side of the Date

The initial date may or may not lead to another. If the gentleman is extra special or someone you find interesting, avoid the trap of wearing revealing dresses that scream "Everything you see, you get", drinking more than you can hold, and boring him with your life story. The first date is not the venue to {spin]spill the beans|talk[/spin] about your personal tragedies. Serious topics like personal tragedies shouldn't be fodder for an after dinner discussion.

Monopolizing the conversation can turn-off even the most persistent of dates. Instead, veer the conversation towards friendly topics that can draw the man out of his nervousness. Men are also anxious about making you comfortable and relaxed during the date.

Later, in the next few dates, show your recognition by gifting him one of those nice money clips as presents, or host a dinner you cooked yourself if the occasion calls for it. This will reflect your good taste and your high regard for his thoughtfulness. First dates are supposed to be the start of a beautiful relationship, so take note of these helpful tips.