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You finally got to go on your first date with that person! But how long should a first date be? Let’s find out together.

 

First dates can sometimes feel like magic. When you meet someone and they're just as charming, cheerful, and conversational as you expected.

Image credit: priscilla du preez - Unsplash

 

Or, sometimes it's just a total mess, and you're stuck in an awkward conversation, wondering how to get out of it.

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How long should a first date be?

Should a first date end with a simple coffee, or should it last for hours? The truth is, it should last long enough to really get to know the person. Whether it’s one hour or three, the important thing is to plan a fun time where you can connect with each other.

 

Some people say a 30-minute meeting is good, while others say two hours is just right. Here's a quick guide to help you out.

 

1. It should be long enough to get to know each other.

The first date should be long enough to get to know the other person. Believe it or not, people form first impressions in seconds! You don’t have much time, so give the other person a chance to really shine. Don’t end it too early.

 

2. It should be short enough to escape when you feel awkward.

Planning fun activities is great, but you also need to have an easy way to get away. A four-hour boat cruise might sound like a dream, but it can be a nightmare when things don’t go your way.

 

Tip:  Tell your friend to call you back in 30 minutes. If the date sucks, you'll have an excuse to escape, and if it's going well, you can ignore the call and keep having fun!

 

3. Don't drag it out too long

Dates can range from a 30-minute coffee break to a 5-hour marathon. But if they drag on too long, the mood can start to fade, especially when you run out of topics to talk about. Keep it fun, but not too intense.

 

4. Don't follow other people's rules.

Some people like coffee dates because they are casual and low-pressure. If the date falls through, you can just get out of it after the coffee. But if sparks fly, you can continue the relationship by going out for a meal or taking a walk.

 

If you prefer night dates, you can sometimes talk until late and get to know each other. Just go with the flow and have fun!

 

Tip:  The first date is all about making sure there is a connection. Whether it’s 30 minutes or a few hours, give yourself enough time to get to know each other, but don’t let it ruin the mood.

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Things to Consider When Deciding How Long a First Date Should Be

Image credit: Jason Leung - Unsplash

 

Here are some important things you might not have thought about!

 

1. The longer the date, the more expensive it is.

If you're paying for the date, think about the cost. First dates can add up quickly, especially if you're on a budget.

 

Once you get past an hour, the expenses start to add up. If you do drink, cocktails are expensive, and the longer you stay together, the more you drink and the more you may want to eat.

 

And if you have another date scheduled for the week, your wallet will take a hit. So if there are no sparks, keeping the first date short can save you money.

 

2. Dating time affects perception

Depending on how long your date lasts, it can affect how others perceive you. For example, if you spend hours together, you might seem like you take your time too easily.

 

If the date goes on too long, the other person might think you don't have other options or that you're not busy. People like a little mystery, right?

 

However, on the contrary, if the mood is good and you are both enjoying it, it is okay to continue without worrying about the time!

 

3. Long dates can get uncomfortable

First dates can be difficult, especially when you don't know the other person very well. After the initial conversation, it can get a little awkward when the conversation stops.

 

Dating can start to feel more like a job interview than a fun encounter. When you're being bombarded with questions and the conversation isn't flowing well, the mood can get heavy.

 

If things aren't going well, you'll find yourself wondering how to end things after seeing the time. Keep it casual and light to avoid awkward goodbyes!

 

4. A first date that is too long can kill the mystery.

Dating is supposed to be fun, right? It's fun to get to know the other person little by little.

 

But if a first date goes on too long, you might start to feel like you already know everything. Of course, that's not always a bad thing, but it can make you less excited for the next date.

 

This is also why it's a good idea not to talk or text too much before meeting. You might end up creating a connection that may not be real. You think you know the person, but you've never actually met them!

 

And what if the other person doesn't look like the picture, or there's no chemistry? It could be a little awkward.

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conclusion

There's no perfect rule for how long a first date should be.

 

If it's fun, keep having fun! If you're losing focus, it might be time to cut it short. Give it an hour or so, and if it doesn't work, you can politely leave.

 

After all, dating can last as long as you both enjoy it. If you're both having fun, it's okay to go until the sun comes up!

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Also read:

 

First Date Questions

What to talk about on a first date

First date conversation

How to calm your nerves on a first date