The first date is where you make your impression. You can go with generic ideas, but after enough first dates, you’ll start to get bored with these. Here are some ideas for ways to spend that first date.

First Date Tip 1: Go for a picnic on an island. You could easily drop big money on flying the two of you out to one for a romantic time, but you can also do this cheaply.

First Date Tip 2: Go sample things from multiple restaurants. You’ll get a more varied experience, more things to talk about, and the chance to break away from the dating norms.

First Date Tip 3: Do a wine sampling. Plenty of small wineries are around where you can sample very good wines from all of the places you may not live in. Just make sure your date likes wine, as it is an acquired taste.

First Date Tip 4: Learn a new skill! It might seem like a strange idea, but I had a friend who took a girl to a cooking class, and they both enjoyed it.

First Date Tip 5: Go look through the stores. Head down to the mall and just cruise around. You get to learn what the other person likes, and it could be useful information someday.

First Date Tip 6: Play a game. Truth or dare is always a good one. Especially in public places, this game can get risky and bring out the guts in both of you. You’ll get to know each other and loosen up a bit.

First Date Tip 7: An active sporty date is fun. Find a sport or physical activity you both like and do it together. It’s not a normal first date, but it gets the blood flowing and you’ll feel good.