It’s okay, you can say it — double dates can be really cheesy. There’s a lot of stigma around them, but besides competing on who’s the cuter couple and who has the best relationship, they can actually be really fun if you’re open to it! Here are a few tips on how to have the best time with the least amount of awkwardness.
The key to a successful double date is choosing the right couple to go with. The worst part about double dates can be the awkward silence that comes along with it but there are so many ways to avoid that! The ideal match is a couple who loves to talk and is always open to trying new things. Choose a couple you’re already familiar with and know that you share some common interests. A great example is a close mutual friend, or, if you have no mutual friends, choose someone whose partner is extroverted and kind! Confidence could make or break the date. Be sure to feel comfortable enough with your partner to stir up some conversation or make some jokes with each other. The more confidence you emit, the more natural the date will feel.
Planning ahead is crucial. Contrary to popular belief, don’t start the date out by getting food, this could lead to forced conversation and unwanted silence. Start out by doing an activity such as bowling, arcade games, mini golf or anything that you can focus on if things ever get awkward. A great way to start a conversation is to talk about something everyone has in common, which at the time could be your game! This eases everyone into talking and prepares them for phase 2, food!
Choosing a place everyone likes to eat at is harder than it sounds. Make sure to ask if anyone has any dietary restrictions or food they don’t like and factor that into your choice. Some good ideas are ramen, burgers, crepes, or Mexican cuisine. Since you’ve already warmed up to the other couple, eating is going to be much less nerve-wracking. The conversation should be flowing and laughs should be loud! If you ever need some conversation starters here are a couple ideas: pop culture, school, music, friends, etc.! One small obstacle people face is where to sit at the table. Should the couples sit next to each other or across the table from one another? This depends on how close you feel with the other couple, but I’d recommend sitting next to your partner and across the table from the other couple so it’s easier to have a group conversation.
Finishing up the date is the easiest part as you’ve already spent a couple of hours together so saying goodbye is mutually rewarding. Mention how you had a great time, how it was fun to talk to them, and how you’d love to do it again (even if you don’t, just say it anyways to be kind). If you feel comfortable enough, end with a hug and wave goodbye.
See, double dates don’t have to be cheesy! With the right couple and a carefully executed plan, you and your partner can have a memorable night out. Awkward silences don’t need to be a thing and conversation starters are a make or break. You should feel proud of yourself and your partner because you just successfully executed the perfect double date!