So you’ve set up your online dating profile, posted your best pictures and made clear what you’re looking for in a potential partner. You’ve sifted through the messages and initial introductory conversation and now it’s official: you’re meeting your match for the first time in person. Although this is the goal for all online daters, preparing for the face-to-face meeting is perhaps the most nerve wracking part of the process. However, with the right planning, your first date can easily go off without a hitch.

Having a first date with someone you’ve met in person is one thing but to have a first date with an individual you’ve only talked to online is another matter entirely. Sure, you’ve seen their photos, read what they’re all about and may have even talked to him/her on the phone, through email or virtual chat but going from that to a physical date can add some awkwardness into the equation. The good news is that because online dating is a new approach to meeting people, this means the details for planning your first date can be approached differently as well.

Have Lunch Instead of Dinner

First dates can be intimidating because both people aren’t sure what to expect or have some type of idea in their heads as to how things could go. To remove a lot of the intimidation, opt for lunch as your first date instead of dinner. Meeting over lunch is a more social setting that brings a casual air to it, compared to dinner. A lunch date is also ideal because it doesn’t make the two of you feel “forced” to make that romantic connection. For whatever reason, meeting someone during the day puts people at ease and less likely to feel nervous. Additionally, lunch dates are typically more affordable, which is perfect for those operating on a budget.

Meet Halfway

Even though you’ve communicated with your match online and maybe even offline (text, phone calls), there is still the safety factor to consider. Until you really get to know your match, you are still technically meeting a stranger. Because not all first dates go well, it is a good idea to meet someplace neutral that is halfway for both of you, location-wise. Even if you happen to live in the same area, opt to meet up in a different city. This will give you both a great chance to have an experience in new surroundings. To be on the safe side, drive yourself to your destination so that you aren’t forced to rely on your date to get home (having your own transportation will especially come in handy if the date doesn’t go as expected).

Think Outside of the Box

One of the advantages to online dating is the fact that you both already have a good idea of each other’s likes and dislikes, hobbies, subjects of interest, etc. Use that to your advantage and pick something fun to do on your first date together. Anyone can have lunch or dinner but what about going to your favorite amusement park or checking out a local farmer’s market? Find out what common interests you have and base your date around that. Not only will this type of first date be more memorable, it’ll really give you and your match a chance to get to know each other on a deeper level since all the basics were already covered through your online dating profiles.

Not all first dates turn out well. If there isn’t a connection, that’s okay - it’s all part of the process.

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