5 Great First Dates

How many times have you went to a movie and then dinner on a first date only to realize you all never got a chance to really get to know one another? Believe it or not, this outing is probably the most common on a first date. I remember going out with a guy to a movie and he talked throughout the entire film. On top of that, he tried to make moves and hold my hand while we were scrunched in these really uncomfortable movie chairs (he picked the theater).  Needless to say, it was one of the worst dates I'd ever been on for 2 reasons: (a) We couldn't really learn more about one another. (b) Neither of us really expressed our true personalities. So I'm here to offer some first date ideas that may get the party and conversation started in your dating life!

Movies in the Park 

I am aware that we discussed how movies can be very limiting in how much conversation and interaction can take place in an actual theater. However, a movie in the park in your local downtown area during the summer months can be such a casual/romantic date and a conversation starter as you people watch, eat good food that you may have packed or lay back and enjoy the great summer air. If you are even more comfortable with the person you could bring a portable dvd player and go to a neutral meeting place and decide on a park and have a nice picnic and play a few boardgames afterwards.

Bowling/Rollerskating

There are not alot of activities were hilarity can ensue from a lack of skills or mishaps than in bowling or skating.  Bowling alleys and skating rinks are pretty affordable with rollerskate or shoe rentals, pizza, drinks and good times!  If you are too embarassed to try out a skating rink, go bowling instead.  This is a sure-fire way to get conversation and laughs started. Trust me on this!

Bookstores/Cafes

This idea is pretty much self-explanatory as the environment lends itself to conversation and maybe a nice French Vanilla or White Chocolate latte and a few magazines. Let the talking begin. Check your local Borders,  Starbucks, or Truth Bookstore for store hours or specific locations.

Museums/Aquariums/Zoos

If you live in Detroit or even Michigan, you may know that we have local attractions such as the Charles H. Wright African-American Museum, the Detroit Science Center, Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit  (MOCAD), the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak and many other local attractions.  These places are great conversation starters as you learn new and interesting facts about artists, animals, history and culture.

Arts and Crafts

I know, it's the first date and you want to look your best of course, but imagine how cool it would be to learn how to oil paint or mold clay on your first date while having great conversation and getting dirty. That's awesome! A lady can show off her creativity while the guy shows off his macho side while making some pottery or learning a fun new skill. Try it! Check out a local community college for details on free art classes or Creative Arts Studios in Royal Oak, Michigan.

Don't forget, even if you choose not to use my suggestions, that conversation and getting to know one another is key in the initial stages of dating!  Remember, to have fun too and show that dynamic personality of yours!!!