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9 First Date Gift Ideas to Make a Great Impression
First date is an important aspect of building a connection with someone. Giving your date the right gift on the first date can ease up the awkwardness and leave a good first impression of you. We’ll explore 9 first date gift ideas as well as tips to start the date off right!
Short on Time? (Summary)
Bringing the perfect gift on the first date will show them that you’re thoughtful and you’ve been paying attention to them. It can also break the ice and be a conversation starter. Say you give your date movie tickets, it can lead to an engaging and even funny conversation about movies.
In this article, we’ll delve into 9 first date gift ideas to help start the date right off. We’ll also provide useful experts’ tips to make your first date a memorable one!
HIGHLIGHTS
- It is not necessary to bring a gift on the first date but it shows you’ve been paying attention.
- The appropriate first date should be simple and thoughtful. It should not be expensive.
- Some perfect first date gift ideas are flowers, a simple piece of jewelry, chocolates, perfume or a book from their favorite genre.
- Pick the right location for your first date and show up on time.
Should You Give A Gift on the First Date?
Planning a first date can be daunting especially because you want to make a good first impression. You have picked the right spot and found the perfect outfit and now, you’re wondering, “Should I buy a gift for him/her/them?”
No rule says you must bring a gift on the first date. So, you don’t necessarily have to get a gift. However, giving your date a present says many things about you, such as:
- You’re thoughtful
- You’re caring
- You’ve been listening
- You’ve been paying attention to their interests, likes and dislikes
It doesn’t have to be grand or expensive; a small, thoughtful gift will do. Again, you don’t have to get a gift if it’s not within your budget.
Are Gifts Expected on a First Date?
For most people, expecting first date gifts is usually not common. First date is all about getting to know each other and having a great time. You do not have to break the bank to do so. You can leave a lasting impression as long as you pick the right spot and follow the first date tips we will mention shortly.
What First Date Gifts Are Appropriate?
A first date gift is appropriate when it’s simple, thoughtful, and something that they would actually like. It should not be too cheesy or expensive. If you give an expensive gift on the first date, it’ll make your date awkward and they may feel like they owe you.
9 First Date Gift Ideas
Here are 9 simple first date gift ideas that would not seem like you’re coming on too strong.
1. Flowers
If you’re talking online or on dating sites, she might have probably mentioned her favorite flowers. If not, before you go on the date, ask about her favorite flowers. Giving her favorite flowers on the first date shows you’re interested in her and would go an extra mile to make her smile.
Pro Tip: We recommend buying the flowers on the same day as the date so they do not wither before the date. If you can, place an order beforehand and pick it up on your way.
2. Jewelry
A simple piece of jewelry, say a bracelet or necklace, is a perfect first date gift. It doesn’t have to be expensive, a budget of $50 or less is enough. You don’t want to come on too strong by getting a designer bracelet, especially if she’s not materialistic.
Pro Tip: We recommend getting a bracelet that shows her interests, such as a solar-system-themed bracelet or necklace if she loves everything about the solar system.
3. Perfume
This a low-budget gift that will leave your date in awe. Opt for perfume in a cute bottle and a light scent, flowery if possible. A perfume with an amazing scent will definitely bring a smile to your date’s face.
4. A Book
A book is one of the best low-budget first date gifts. If your date is an avid reader, the perfect first date gift is a book, from their favorite author if possible. Giving a book will give her a reason to text you after the date.
Pro Tip: You should know what kind of books your date likes to read before you proceed to buy one. If you choose the wrong book, they might be offended or disinterested by the title.
5. A Box of Chocolate
Chocolate is a casual yet thoughtful first date gift. A box of assorted or just her favorite chocolates will show her that you took time to get her something she really likes. You’ll score major points with this simple gesture.
Pro Tip: Not everyone loves chocolate. You should be sure your date loves them. If you do get a chocolate, ensure there aren’t nuts, especially if your date has a nut allergy.
6. A Personalized Coffee Mug
If you know your date loves to have a cup of coffee every morning, giving them a coffee mug with their name or favorite quote on it is an excellent idea! Show your creative side by personalizing the coffee mug yourself. Don’t do anything too crazy, keep it simple!
7. A Bottle of Wine
This is a classic first date gift. You should be sure your date drinks because it would be awkward if they don’t or are sober. Giving her a bottle of wine, especially their favorite one, will show that you paid attention.
8. Engraved Keychain With Their Name
An engraved keychain with your date’s name
is a cute and simple gift for a first date. It will always remind her of you. Giving her this gift will start the date right off!
9. Movie Tickets
Movie tickets are among the most appropriate first date gifts. If there’s a new movie that you would like to see, you can invite her to join you. Your date would be pleased to know that you want to see her again and you’re already planning the next activity.
Pro Tip: We strongly recommend giving her this gift towards the end of the date because you need to be sure she would want to go out with you again.
Tips for a First Great Date
1. Pick the Right Location
The key to a great first date is the perfect location. When searching for the perfect location for your first date, it’s important to choose a place where you both feel safe and comfortable while enjoying each other’s company.
2. Practice Safe Dating
If you met on a dating site, we recommend video calling your match first before scheduling a date for safe dating. For additional safe dating tips for women, click here. Always meet in a public space and remain there until the date ends. Additionally, do not allow your date to follow you back to your exact home address..
3. Set a Budget
Dating can be expensive, so it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. For practical tips on dating on a budget, check out these helpful insights to avoid overspending while still ensuring a fun time with your date.
4. Show Up on Time
We recommend keeping to the time scheduled for your first date. Showing up late for your first date without a valid reason is rude and disrespectful to your date. It can also ruin the vibe of your first date and your chances of going on more dates.
5. Give Thoughtful Compliments
Everyone loves sweet and thoughtful compliments. Complimenting your date’s looks or smile in a respectful manner helps them feel more comfortable. It can also lighten the mood.
6. Put Your Phone Away
Staring at your phone while you’re on a date is a bad look for you. Going through your phone every minute shows that you’re not interested in your date. We recommend putting your phone away or muting notifications.
7. Ask Good Questions
Don’t just ask the basic and boring questions, rather ask fun and intriguing ones such as:
- What was the last book you read?
- What’s your favorite childhood memory?
- If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
This will keep the date fun and memorable. Asking the right questions will help you know your date better and prevent awkward silence.
8. Listen
Take the time to listen to what your date has to say without interrupting them. Let your date know you are interested and engaged in the conversation by nodding your head and making direct eye contact.
9. Don’t Talk About Your Ex
Talking about your past relationships can give the impression that you have not moved on. Your date is not interested in your past relationship so do not talk about it.
10. Avoid Controversial Topics
We recommend avoiding controversial subjects like politics, religion, or topics that can create unnecessary tension or discomfort. Instead, you should focus on light, engaging conversation that will help you get to know each other better.
11. Watch Out for Red Flags
While enjoying your time together, it’s important to stay mindful of any red flags such as being rude to the waiter. Paying attention to warning signs early on can help you avoid getting into a toxic relationship.
12. Be Yourself
Authenticity is key to forming a genuine connection. Trying to impress your date by being someone you’re not will likely backfire in the long run. Being yourself allows your date to see the real you.
13. Follow Up After the Date
After the date, a thoughtful follow-up can leave a lasting positive impression. It might be a text to say you enjoyed the time you spent together with them or an invitation for a second date. This gesture shows interest and helps to keep communication open.
Conclusion
It is important to leave a good impression on the first date. You can do so by getting an appropriate gift and following the first date tips we mentioned above. Things can go wrong pretty quickly if you do not get the right gift, so we recommend taking the time to learn about your date’s likes and interests.
