First Date

Over the years I've developed some expectations for first dates. I don't care how much the guy spends, or even if he pays. I'm not concerned with where you go or what you do, just do something. Of course we all love staying in for some snugs, but you need to go out early on in the relationship, and here's why:

• He should put in some effort by suggesting a location for dinner, a fun activity, or offering to pick you up or meet you somewhere that is convenient to you.
• Give him a chance to 'own' the date. Girls spend so much of their relationships taking control of the plans, decorating, cooking, friends. Let him take charge and impress!
• Delay the physical for as long as possible. We all know how tempting it is to move from sitting beside each other to lying beside each other to kissing to naked. The transition to naked is a lot less likely to happen at a restaurant or mini golf course.
• You can look great and put more effort in. Sweats, chips and messy hair are fun and comfortable, but if the relationship is a keeper, you'll have decades for that. Enjoy the initial excitement and energy you have in the early stages and look as fabulous as you can.