You’re taking her to dinner tonight, Romeo.
Here’s a few key things to remember on this, the potentially-most-important-date-you’ll-ever-have. (Provided things work out.)
-Take her somewhere off the beaten path. The Keg is great, sure, but she’ll think you’re a man-about-town for discovering that hidden gem
-Establish eye contact early. You’re confident, interested, and completely invested in every work that pours out of her precious little mouth. Prove it.
-Compliment her—but not in a creepy way. “Your ass looks fantastic in that dress” may not go over; try something a little more tactful.
-Don’t dominate the conversation. She may want to hear about the company’s latest acquisition over appetizers—if you’re yammering on by the time the dessert menu hits the table, you’re an idiot.
-Maintain eye contact. You’re still confident, interested, and completely invested. Prove it.
-Actually, really care about the conversation. If you’re not interested in her ambitions, career, previous experience and worldview now—then you’re probably never going to be, and you’re probably not that into her.
-Don’t make a big deal about picking up the cheque. (And fellas, in this day and age, it’s okay if you don’t—either way, keep it discreet.)
-Chivalry isn’t dead (–it’s just on life support.) You’re not an ass if you open a door for your lady.
-Make sure she gets home safe. This may mean holding off on the mojitos; then again, getting hammered in front of her on Date #1 is a pretty good way to ensure there won’t be a Date #2.
-Don’t expect that kiss at the door; hell, don’t expect anything. This way, if it happens—if anything happens—you get to go home feeling like the man. If not, you’re not a chump.
Finally, (as always) I sum it up like this: be yourself. Just better. (Or, at least, on your best behavior.)
And, as a parting gift—a little free information about Date #2—never, ever, act surprised that she let you take her out again. (If you treated her half as well as I’ve outlined above, she will.)
