The UK Christian Singles Community.

60% of first dates in the UK are the result of meeting and getting to know someone online! First dates are very normal, but they are still a little nerve racking. Once you’ve been corresponding with someone on DivineMatch for a while, it’s well worth seeing if your chemistry translates offline. We’ve got a few pointers to make your first date go as smoothly as possible.

1. Coordinate information thoroughly. Make sure you get a cell phone number and that you have directions to your meeting place. No getting lost! This will only add to your anxiety level.

2. Leave in plenty of time. You do not want to be late for that first date. If you are too early, just hang out somewhere until it is time to meet.

3. Meet someplace public only! Coffee shops, restaurants, bookstores are all good choices. DO NOT go to anyone’s home or a private party for the first meeting or two.

4. Arrange to do something you like doing! You will already have asked them lots of questions so try doing an activity that you both are into. With the focus on what you are doing, you will both be less nervous and more normal – you may even enjoy yourself!

5. This isn’t an interview so don’t grill them with questions! A first date is just to check out how someone acts, their mannerisms and to see if there is any level of chemistry. It isn’t a job interview so take it easy.

6. Steer clear of sob stories about your ex’s. No one wants to be saddled with your break-up story. You both can share this information as you develop more trust.

7. Easy on cologne. Enough said.

8. DO NOT just talk about yourself. You want to get to know this person. Be aware of lots of nodding and silence on your date’s part and turn it back to them with a question.

9. Don’t be too hard on them. They are nervous too and may not be entirely themselves. Unless the date is a real disaster or you are fully not interested, we recommend a second before discounting them entirely. It is generally more relaxed. If they seem not interested in you, try not to take it to heart. We are all different and looking for different things. It isn’t a reflection of you.

10. Feel free to do something as a group. Having a few friends around takes the pressure off and will help you see how they interact in groups too.

First date jitters are normal! Like everything, the more dates you go on, the easier they are. When you view dating as entertainment and not a recruitment process, you will be less frustrated, more fun to be with and will enjoy life along the way.