If it’s almost February 14 and you’re still looking for a Valentine’s Day date, why not give Tinder a try? The stakes are pretty low because if it doesn’t work out, it’s unlikely you’ll cross paths with this person again. Since it’s only the first date, you can relax, maybe enjoy a meal and appreciate the fact that you didn’t spend Valentine’s Day alone for once.
However we know that going on a first date can be intimidating, especially with someone you’ve only met online. So, here’s how to have a totally perfect Valentine’s Day first date with your Tinder bae!
1. Arrange a fun date plan
Dinner or drinks is a popular go-to, but perhaps a fun adventure together can help break the ice. Some non-traditional first date ideas include going for a picnic, seeing a Valentine’s Day movie, visiting a museum or stopping by a street fair. Don’t be afraid to get creative and do something different. It is Valentine’s Day, after all!
2. Take the time you need to get ~flawless~
For all you know, this might be your future SO, so it pays off to put a little extra time into getting ready. Plus, it’s the holiday of love, and you deserve to dress up tonight. Worst case scenario is that if the date turns out to be a dud, at least you’ll walk away feeling and looking hot AF.
3. Calm your nerves
While getting ready for your date, give yourself some time to calm your nerves, especially if you’re starting to get those anxious first-date jitters.
“Before I go on a first date, some ways that help me calm my nerves and go in with an open mind are pampering myself with a face mask the night before, meditating to clear my mind, reassuring myself that the stakes are low, and more importantly, just being in the moment,” explains *Alexis, a student at the University of Illinois at Chicago. It’s okay to be nervous, but remember to breathe. Above all this is meant to be fun and a chance to get to know someone new!
Related: 7 Signs You Should Go For That Tinder Hookup
4. Keep the flow of conversation natural
OK, so you’re on the date! If you find that you’re struggling to keep the conversation flowing, anything that begins with “tell me about…” usually invites the other person to open up and share a story. Keep it fun and natural, and if the chemistry is right, the conversation will move along on its own.
Although it’s tempting to reinvent yourself for your date, don’t pretend to be someone you’re not, especially if it doesn’t hold true upon meeting… on both ends. At the end of the day, remember to be authentic and stay true to yourself. And remember, collegiettes, a date on Valentine’s Day shouldn’t define who you are. It’s totally fine if you don’t have a date or if the date didn’t go as expected. Be safe, and have an amazing night out with your Tinder bae!
*Names have been changed