Five things to sort out before your first date

You have matched, the conversation is flowing, and you are going to meet. Great! Five minutes of preparation lets you relax and actually enjoy the evening.

1. 1

   Choose a public place. A café, a bar, or a walk in the town centre. Someone’s home can wait until you know each other.

2. 2

   Tell a friend where you will be. Your date’s name, the place and the time. Arrange an “all good?” message along the way.

3. 3

   Get there and get home independently. That way, you decide when the evening is over.

4. 4

   Have a quick video call first. Two minutes is enough to see that the person matches their photos. And to find out whether you laugh at the same things.

5. 5

   Have a plan B. Keeping an “I’m afraid I need to leave at nine” up your sleeve is nothing to be ashamed of. It is just smart.

Most importantly: if something feels wrong, you are allowed to leave. You do not owe anyone a whole evening.