The Perfect Date

When you are 15 and have absolutely no idea what happensin a date, you think that everything is fine as long as you get a nice bouquetof flowers, your mascara does not run, and nothing is stuck between your teeth.Your standards naturally change after concluding every date taking note of whatto do and what to avoid on your forthcoming dates. After nearly a decade ofdating, hundreds of flowers in all colors and sizes, and thousands of good andbad dates (combined of course), let me share with you what constitutes my ideaof a “perfect date”.

We are both on time.

I am one of those people who equally hate waiting and being late. I try my bestto be on time if not early by at least ten minutes. Being early allows me tobreathe in and out, kissing my anxiety attacks goodbye. I expect this of mydate as well because really, waiting is such a waste of something that’sirreversible.

We are actually talking.

You’ve got to admit that dinner invitations are quite threatening in their ownlittle way. Unless you’ve already had small talks before your first dinnerdate, the time between placing orders and food arrival can be pretty awkward.There’s also the inept moment after eating if you are capping the night with akiss or not. This also applies to those who’ve been going out for a while sincedinners can be sickening too when done frequently. Interesting diningsuggestions include Saturday afternoon ice cream at the park, power lunch atthe deli, or al fresco brunch. These choices are both inexpensive and lessintimidating versus dinners.

We are both dressed appropriately.

Sure, surprise dates are fine please be considerate and tell your date if sheneeds to dress up or otherwise. I once went to a five star hotel in denimshorts because my date told me we are just going to “hang out”. I couldn’t backout the last minute because our food is ready to be served. Hanging out to memeans spending time at the mall or a coffee shop and not with caviar, foiegras, flowers bigger than me, and French wine.

We don’t send mixed signals.

Some of us are dating rookies while others are infamous experts. Beforeinviting someone out or saying “yes” to an invitation, make sure that you havea good grasp why you are going out with that person. The hopeless romantic willgo out with you with the hopes of finding true love while others are just infor a good conversation. Let them know as early as possible to avoid wastingtime, money, or even effort.

Flowers, chocolates, and an expensive dinner are great but it really takes somuch more to make a perfect date. Sincerity and respect is the key.