The unwritten rules that we often forget during the first date

Ahhh, the first date, something that makes many people feel hot under the collar. Because what will be sitting across from you this time? Are you going to shake hands with the love of your life? Can you call the show Catfish later? Or will the evening end again with the well-known ‘I had a great time, but...’? In other words, a case of all or nothing.

Fortunately, you and your date both come with - hopefully - the same goal: a second date. But first, you'll have to survive that first date, and there are a few unwritten rules that are often overlooked. Here I present to you: the etiquette for a successful first date.

1. Don't spray too much perfume
We all know what a nice scent can do to a person, but don't forget: less is more. And that's also the case with perfume. You don't want your date to have to go home with a headache because you emptied half a bottle of perfume. Trust me: three sprays of Miss Dior are enough.

2. Don't show up tipsy
I get it: the tension of a first date is not for everyone. That one bottle of wine looks very tempting while getting ready. But please, save those two glasses and that last bit of tequila just before you leave for later in the evening.

3. Never say: ‘We'll save that for the next date.’
We've heard this statement a bit too often. And it's well-intentioned, don't get me wrong. You want to indirectly give the other person the confirmation that you feel a connection. But how awkward is it when this is said to you while you already know that that second date is never going to happen?

4. Don't overshare
Being vulnerable is fine during a date, but it's NOT the intention for the conversation with the person opposite you to feel like your monthly session with the psychologist. Let's keep it a bit fun, okay?

5. Don't text too much beforehand
Of course, a few conversations on WhatsApp beforehand I only recommend. After all, you want to know what kind of person will be sitting across from you. But do yourself a favor and save the interesting facts about yourself for the date. It saves you some awkward silences.

6. Be on time
It has never happened that someone scored points by arriving late. Never. Unless you really can't help it, of course. Then, out of courtesy, send a text, but for some, this is sometimes already too much to ask.

7. If you ask me out, you pay
There, I said it. If you ask me to go on a date with you, then you shouldn't expect me to pull out my card at the end. The same goes for the other way around, of course.

8. A conversation comes from both sides
I see this happen a bit too often on First Dates: a conversation that only comes from one side. Various questions are asked, and the other can only respond with a sparse ‘yes’ or ‘no’ without asking a single question back. So rude.

9. Put that phone away
Come on, that phone can be put away for a bit. And I mean really completely away. Sound off and NOT on the table. Because how annoying is it when someone keeps scanning their phone while you're telling your story? Don't call me. Literally.