8 Ways To Have More Fun On A Date

You’ve got the adorable bae. The cutest outfit. The perfect place. But you’re still nervous that it’s all gonna be a little awkward. Here’s how to nix those nerves and actually, you know, enjoy yourself on the big night out.

Stash the phones.

THE SITCH: When the convo goes silent, it’s easy to rely on digital devices—to simply show your date some pics from your family's ski trip or the TikTok meme you heart that, somehow, they haven't seen. But, once the eyes go to the screen (or the "btw, have you seen..." starts), it can be hard to get back to, well, real-life face time.

THE FIX: From the first “Hey!” to the goodnight kiss, keep your phone in your bag—and your attention on your date. If the chatter goes quiet, think about what you’d ask a friend you’d just met. Sure, a BF or GF is different, but you’d still wanna know Marvel vs. DC, what it was like to be in the school play or whatever other interests you two might share.

Bring your BFFs.

THE SITCH: You’ve got a crush in mind, but you're not quite ready to do dinner just you two. The phrase “group date” might make people groan, but it’s a surefire way to show you’re interested without committing to too much solo time. So suggest the cutie joins you and your friends for open skate at the ice rink.

THE FIX: To make your point that you’re starting to think of this person as more than just a friend, peel away from your besties a bit during the group hang for some one-on-one time. Ask if they want to join you for a cocoa or challenge them to a skate-off. Oh and before the outing? Make sure you let them know your friends are gonna be there... and mention they might bring some buds, too, so they’re not surprised when your whole squad shows up.

Pass on the ex talk.