So you’ve spent days, maybe weeks, chatting to someone online and have decided to take the plunge and meet in person.
How exciting!
I remember discussing with my mum that I’d be meeting up with someone I met on Match.com. “Just be careful”, she warned.
I dated when I was 30-32 and was what I would call a responsible grown adult. But it didn’t stop my mum from worrying.
Obviously she wasn’t keen on the idea of me meeting with random strangers so she gave me a few pearls of wisdom that I’d like to share with you. They may seem obvious but are definitely worth remembering.
A few first date safety rules
Meet in the daytime and in public
Not everyone gets creeped out in the dark, especially on their own, but I do. Yep, I’m scared of the dark. I feel way safer in daylight.
So I always made sure I had my first date, or first few dates during the day, somewhere like Wollaton Park, or a local cafe.
Not only did being in public made me feel extra safe, the people watching made for a very good conversation.
Don’t drink too much alcohol
That tipsy feeling can lead to letting your guard down. Enjoy a drink, sure, but don’t over do it.
Stick to a couple of drinks and stay aware. Not only will you remain in full control, you won’t fall over pissed up – never an attractive trait!
Tell someone where you’re going
I always told my mum and at least one friend who I was meeting, where we were going and at what time. This made me feel really safe and kept mother happy too.
Three rings
Mum always asked me to drop call her (is that what you still call it?) Or send her a quick text to let her know I got there and that he wasn’t some weirdo, which of course, they never were (I vigorously vetted everyone I dated haha).
So in summary:
- be sensible
- meet in daylight
- don’t get drunk
- tell people where you’re going and when (and that you’re home safe)
But most of all, have fun.
You may be wondering why I’ve not listed safe sex as one of my first-date safety rules. That’s because I always followed the three date rule (minimum).
