Sometimes a first date is magical.
Other times, not so much. In this blog we discuss why Date Deck® can help with that initial date, when you're looking for something different to do.
First dates are all about building an initial connection and discovering what you have in common. But it can be hard to settle on what to do or where to go, especially if you're nervous about making a good impression. And, if that first impression isn't so great, a second date is less likely. Sometimes the typical dinner date can be an awkward experience once you've talked about all the usual topics of conversation and you're out of things to say.
That's why some of the very best first dates are centered around an activity. These include things like going wine tasting, visiting a museum, taking a walk, going to a farmer's market, or strolling through a museum. In fact, some dating coaches suggest doing something out of the ordinary that is fun, engaging, and memorable. In addition to being engaging, doing something together fosters a connection that having lunch or dinner doesn't. Lunch or dinner, of course, can be part of the date, but an activity may be just the thing to get you out of your comfort zone and making a different kind of connection.
Date Deck® is a deck of 52 cards that suggests many different ways to do something fun together.
As suggested above, some of the ideas included in Date Deck® are the ones we have previously listed. Things like going wine tasting or to a museum, for example, will get you doing something and talking at the same time. You will, most likely, try something new together, which increases the likelihood of having a good time.
Wine or Beer Tasting
Taking a tour of a local brewery or winery to see how their beverages are made can be a fun thing to do together on a first date. This provides an opportunity to learn something new and there's always a chance you'll find a new favorite brew or wine to share on future dates. In addition, these tours also happen to be the perfect amount of time for a first date — about an hour — which is just enough to figure out whether or not there's a connection while still leaving room for a little curiosity to explore on the second date. If you don't drink, consider a tour of a historic location in your city instead. Both will be equally fun and give you just enough time to get to know each other a little bit.
Do Something That Uses Your Body
A small 2011 study of undergraduate students found there was an increase in attraction levels between male and female students after they participated in some form of adrenaline-boosting physical activity. The higher the participants' adrenaline following activity, the more their attraction levels surged. As discussed in earlier blogs about the mental effect of having fun together, this may be partly due to dopamine. Thrilling situations also trigger the release of dopamine, a hormone associated with pleasure and motivation to seek rewards. Given these findings, you might consider going rock climbing, hiking, or bike riding with your date. These types of activities will get your heart rate up but also allow you an opportunity to chat throughout the experience.
A Picnic Instead of Lunch or Dinner
Sharing a meal on a picnic lunch or dinner is a great date idea because it can create a more casual, comfortable vibe than eating at a restaurant. Plus, nature can create a calm, soothing environment for a first date. One idea is to plan a potluck style, where you and your date each pack beverages and bites to share. To keep things interesting, you can also pack some board games. That way, you'll be less likely to run out of things to say to each other and get a better idea if there is any type of spark. Go midday for lunch when the weather is warm and people are also out doing things nearby.
An alternative to this is to have lunch while browsing at a farmer's market. Not only do farmers' markets provide endless conversation starters, but they also allow you to potentially learn about each other's tastes while perusing the vendors. In addition, if things go well, you might even want to pick up some seasonal ingredients to whip up an at-home dinner together for your second date.
Pick up a Date Deck® to Find More Ideas
If one or two of these ideas sound good to you, pick up a Date Deck® for more ideas that are a little different and out of the ordinary. A fun date that is engaging and unique can make the difference between a memorable first date, and one that's just average. If you're going to put the effort into dating someone new, you might as well try something new together that will make for a great experience.