Dating can be a fun way to get to know someone in a more romantic light. But if you are hoping to make a good first impression or if you are very excited, you may become nervous about what to do on your first date. There is plenty of advice to help you get through a first date while avoiding some of the classic dating mistakes so that your date will be a success. With a bit of care toward etiquette and applying some first date tips tried by many people, it will be easy to create a atmosphere that is fun and romantic.

10 Best First Date Tips

1. Relax

When you are all wrapped up in making the right first impression or trying to make sure you hit it off with your date you can get nervous. Just relax and remember that this is just one date. Spend a few minutes performing relaxation exercises like deep breathing before you go out to help you ease away this nervousness. You cannot force a long term relationship to happen. The best you can do is give it a try and see if there is chemistry between you and the other person. Don't get so caught up in trying to make the date something special that you don't enjoy it.

2. Plan in advance

Preparing for your date in advance can help you make sure that everything goes smoothly. Make sure you have directions to the venue, you know when you are supposed to meet, who will be providing transportation, whether or not you will need cash to tip or manage other services, if your date has any dietary restrictions that should be considered when selecting a venue and any other details that could impact the success of your night. Plan a night that feels intimate, such as a booth in a quiet restaurant, but not so intimate as to be uncomfortable. Inviting someone back to your home for dinner, for example, may send the wrong signals for a first date.

3. Decide your activities

There are plenty of activities available that couples can do together. Everything from skydiving to going to a concert to simply heading out to a movie can be an option, but these are not necessarily the right options for a first date. You should select an activity that will give you the opportunity to get to know the other person. Plan a venue that will allow plenty of conversation. If you want to see a movie or attend another activity where you will not be able to talk, pair it with coffee, dinner or drinks so you have time to talk afterward.

4. Dress comfortably

You want to look nice on your first date but you also want to make sure that your attire sends the right signals. In the end, it does not necessarily matter what outfit you pick as long as you are comfortable and confident in what you are wearing. Just make sure that the formality of your clothing is appropriate for the venue you have chosen for the date so you do not look out of place.

5. Put away your cell phone

Constantly checking your phone during a date is rude and will make the other person feel as though you are not interested in the company. Put the phone away while you are on your date and save the conversation until later.

6. Be an icebreaker

Having a few talking points planned can help you ward off the awkward silences that can make your date uncomfortable. Keep up with current events and ask open-ended questions that can help keep the conversation going. Avoid conversations that can be answered with a simple yes or no to help get the conversation moving instead of coming to a halt. Just remember to avoid topics that can get controversial like former partners, religion or politics.

7. Be a loyal listener

Being able to talk openly with someone on a date is great, but make sure you also let your date get a word in edgewise. Don't just sit back and wait for your turn to talk again. Keep the conversation flowing and respond to things your date has today. Also use your body language to show that you are listening by having an open posture, nodding or encouraging your date to continue speaking.

8. Be honest

There may be some things you do not necessarily want your date to know about on your first date. Many single parents feel like they need to avoid discussing their children on a date, for example. However, it can be very stressful for your dating relationship if your date is forced to discover these kinds of details later on. They may feel like they were misled, which can damage your relationship. It is important to be honest about the details of your life and how you feel about things. Don't make things up or skew the things you say to try to please your date. You want them to like you for who you are; otherwise your relationship will not be successful.

9. Beware of your body language

You may have the perfect atmosphere for your date and the conversation may be stellar but if your body language is not sending the right signals your date can get confused. Be aware of the signals you are sending so you do not send the wrong impression. People spend much of their time getting to know someone judging these subconscious signals to get a feel for what people are like. Smile when you meet your date to show that you are happy to see them and that you are friendly. Avoid crossing your arms and sit up straight to send the right signals and avoid tension.

10. Flirt with your date

Flirting can help you introduce a playful mood and lets your date know that you are interested in them. Make eye contact and gently touch your date's arm to show that you are attracted. In many cases, if you are really interested your body will give off subconscious cues that you are romantically interested. Noting the body language of the other person and mimicking it is a great way to show your mutual interest and signal that you like them. This can also break the tension and help your date feel more comfortable around you.