Ah, the first date. That magical (and mildly terrifying) moment when you size each other up and decide if you’re vibing or if you’d rather fake an emergency exit. First impressions matter, people! And if you want to make it to round two, you need to bring your A-game.
Mel and Suzie from Sharing My Truth are here to spill the tea on first date etiquette —because let’s be real, no one’s swooning over bad hygiene, one-word answers, or a dude who treats his phone better than his date.
So, let’s break down the DOs and DON’Ts of first dates—because we all deserve better than an evening of awkward silences and regret.
1. Groom Like You Give a Damn ✂️
Listen, we’re not saying you need a full salon experience before a date (unless you want to), but basic grooming is non-negotiable.
✅ Shower (yes, it needs to be said)✅ Trim the beard (or at least make it look intentional)✅ Clean nails = sexy. Dirt under nails = horror movie.✅ If you’ve got a situation going on down south, a little manscaping wouldn’t hurt. You never know where the night might lead...
Because nothing kills romance faster than wondering if you’re dating a caveman.
2. Dress Like You Care (But Not Like You Tried Too Hard) 👔👗
Your outfit should say, “I put effort into this,” not, “I’m trying to be an extra in a perfume commercial.”
For the guys:✔️ A clean, well-fitted shirt (wrinkles are a red flag)✔️ Jeans or trousers that actually fit (baggy or too tight—both are crimes)✔️ Shoes that don’t look like they’ve been through a war
For the ladies:✔️ Whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable (yes, even that “accidentally sexy” outfit)✔️ Shoes you can actually walk in—because a faceplant isn’t a meet-cute moment
Remember: effort = attractive. But desperation? Not so much.
3. Mind Your Manners (You’re Not in a Zoo) 🍽️
Good manners will never go out of style. This isn’t just about knowing which fork to use—it’s about showing basic human decency.
🚫 Don’t be rude to the waitstaff (major 🚩)🚫 Don’t interrupt like you’re in a debate club🚫 Don’t overshare about your ex (literally no one asked)
✅ Do hold the door open (chivalry isn’t dead, it’s just rare)✅ Do say thank you (it costs $0 to be polite)✅ Do chew with your mouth closed (not up for debate)
Trust us, kindness is hotter than abs.
4. The Art of Actually Paying Attention and Dating Etiquette👀
Newsflash: Listening is sexy. If you spend the whole date talking about your protein shake routine or staring at your phone, you’re getting ghosted.
✔️ Put your phone away—no one wants to compete with your notifications.✔️ Make eye contact—unless you’re a serial killer, then maybe dial it down.✔️ Ask actual questions—“So, tell me about yourself” isn’t deep enough.✔️ Respond with more than “cool” or “nice” (please, we beg you).
Dating is a two-player game—so act like it.
5. The Goodbye: To Kiss or Not to Kiss? 😘
So, the date went well. You laughed, you connected, and you didn’t totally embarrass yourself. Now what?
If the vibe is there, a kiss is fair game. If you’re unsure, a simple “I had a great time” with a lingering hug can work wonders. And if you know you want a second date—just say it. No games, no waiting three days to text, no “playing it cool.”
🚀 Pro Tip: If your date ends with “This was fun, let’s do it again”—you nailed it.
Final Thoughts: Be The Date You’d Want to Have and consider some dating etiquette
At the end of the day, first dates aren’t about being perfect—they’re about being present, respectful, and just a little bit charming. If you wouldn’t date you, why would someone else?
For the full breakdown (plus some hilarious dating horror stories), check out the latest Sharing My Truth episode: Dating Etiquette Secrets: Manscaping, Listening, and Locking in Date #2 🎧
Now go forth and make that first date magic happen. Just...remember to shower. 😉
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