6 things to do before a first date

Here are six smart moves to make that first date more relaxed and primed for a good time.

1. Let someone know where you’re going.

With the ease of internet dating also comes the ease of false representation, so it’s crucial you make sure someone knows where you are. Whether it be telling a friend the bar you are meeting at, texting updates to somebody close, or even leaving your Snap Maps on, it’s important to make sure you’re not off the grid.

2. Get them to send you a photo.

Not that kind of photo. Just a regular photo of them doing something like holding a piece of paper up with your name on it, or them mimicking a silly face you send. If you can get them to send you a photo doing something original, you can verify they aren’t just using someone else’s photos off Google images.

3. Organize to meet up in a public space.

If you haven’t been talking to someone for very long, it’s always good to make your first meetup in a public space. As fake profiles are present on every dating app, by suggesting a public space you are giving yourself an out in a worst-case scenario. Even if you’re just seeing someone for a one-time thing, your best bet will always be meeting them somewhere public first, just to make sure the person matches their profile.

4. Clean up a bit.

This applies to both yourself and your humble abode. You never know what will happen after the first date (no judgements here) and it’s good to make sure your date won’t accidentally stumble upon your stuffed toy collection. Childhood toys are a bit of a mood-killer in the bedroom.

5. Don’t do a social stalk.

We know how tempting it can be to look up somebody on social media and spend hours spiralling until you’re looking at their ex-girlfriend’s cousin’s baby shower pictures. However, it’s a recipe for disaster when it comes to first dates. Not only will you have pre-judged somebody, but there is also the risk of exposing information you know about them that they haven’t told you. The last thing you want is your date sending out a stalker alert!

6. Avoid coffee.

Coffee worsens anxiety, so try substituting it for a calming herbal tea or decaf. To avoid worrying about being tired during a date later in the night, just make sure you go to sleep a bit earlier the night before.

As for what you should do when it comes to the date itself, have fun with it. Keep your expectations low and standards high. Everybody has their fair share of bad and good first dates; hopefully you’ll have more of the latter!

Asked and Answered

Is it okay to Google someone before a first date?

Yes! And most people do. A quick search to confirm their name, check their social media, and do a reverse image search of their profile photo is sensible, not creepy. HUD's live video verification gives you added confidence that you're talking to who you think you are.

Should you tell someone where you're going on a first date?

Always. Tell a friend or family member the name and location of where you're meeting, who you're meeting, and agree on a check-in time. This is the single most important safety step for any first date with someone you met online.

Should you drive yourself to a first date?

Yes, whenever possible. Arranging your own transport means you're never dependent on your date to get home, and you can leave whenever you want to. Avoid sharing your home address with someone you've never met.