1.Start with a scavenger hunt
One way to set the right mood before the date even starts is by organizing a meetup in a particular place that requires a little effort for both parties.
“One of the recommendations that I make for people planning first dates who are open to something fun is to meet in a museum by a specific piece of art that they both have to hunt for,” says Haley Neidich, LCSW.
“This adds an air of excitement and it’s like a fun treasure hunt that you get to go on in order to connect. This is also a great way to break the ice before you even meet, making each individual more open and receptive.”
2.Have a night out at a charity fundraiser
This would be a win-win situation. Even if the date doesn’t go as planned, at least both of you will feel good about participating in something philanthropic.
“If one of your favorite charities is having an event and you would like to go—invite your date! This kind of date provides you with an opportunity to share what is near and dear to your heart,” says psychologist and relationship coach Linda Humphreys.
“It also provides your date an opportunity to share with you what he or she finds meaningful.”
3.Volunteer together
If you’ve liked the previous idea, you might try taking the first date for a volunteering experience.
It can be an environmental or community clean-up day, food bank packing, or another service project, it doesn’t really matter, as long as you both want the same thing.
“This kind of date gives you an opportunity to share what you both value—and to share it together,” Humphreys says.
“Seeing someone serving [others] gives you a wonderful insight into their heart and soul.”
