Meeting In Person

Posted in Advice, First Dates, Online Dating | 0 comments

You’ve been talking to Lookn4Luv for almost a month via e-mail and phone conversations, and you guys have finally decided that it’s time to meet in person! You’re probably nervous, because you’ve really only seen pictures, and you hope you’re not about to be unpleasantly surprised that those pictures are a decade old. Before you officially set up a date, carefully consider these DatePro tips!

1. Meet in the Middle.

The last thing you want is to have a miserable date and then be forced to drive 3 hours home from their city. Assuming you don’t live in Siberia, there is probably a halfway point that is about the same distance for the two of you. Not only is it fair for driving distance, but it will take you both out of your element. As long as one of you has home field advantage, someone is going to be more uncomfortable, which will inevitably make the date awkward.

2. Play it Safe

Although most dating sites have improved safety measures, it is never 100% guaranteed that you won’t meet a creepy guy/girl who is out to get you (or your money). So make sure that you meet in a safe area that won’t put you in danger.

3. Pick the right venue.

If you met your date on JewishFriendFinder, chances are you won’t want to meet them at a loud, raunchy bar. Perhaps coffee or a restaurant would be more appropriate. On the opposite end, though, if you are in a steamy affair from AshleyMadison, an extremely public place would probably be a bad idea. Discuss with your date where would make you both comfortable before you meet!

4. Be on time!

Nothing ruins a date like being late. The longer your date waits for you, the more they’ll think you don’t care. However, we all know life is sometimes out of our control, so if you are thinking you might be late, give your date a call (not a text!) to let them know you’re really sorry, but traffic is terrible!

5. Brainstorm some conversation.

The last thing you’ll want is to sit down, grab a drink, and realize you have no idea what to say! A great way to avoid this is to write down a few ideas before you meet. They don’t have to be interrogation-like questions, but asking about favorite restaurants or how their week is going is light-hearted while not seeming forced.

Meeting your online mate in person can be exciting, nerve-racking, and potentially life-changing. So keep it casual, but be prepared for anything!