Double blind dates often feel like a big gamble, but they can pay off in ways that you would never expect. Small talk can be a real challenge when you're talking to someone you haven't been acquainted with before, so having a friend with you allows you to support each other and ultimately have fun. While planning isn't at all spontaneous, doing so will increase the likelihood that your double blind date will go well, even if it doesn't lead to anything romantic.
Keep an open mind
Don't stress about hitting it off right away with your date. You'd be surprised how often a blind date can lead to nothing romantic at all. But still, keep things fun and you may earn yourself a good friend or potential business contact while you're at it. Also, your buddy might like his date so it doesn't help to whine about your date when you realize there isn't much potential between the both of you.
Inspire conversation
Plan your date and make sure there is always something to talk about. Avoid places that are quiet and boring. Try going to a stand-up comedy bar so everyone is in high spirits. Make the evening exciting by meeting somewhere fun like a seaside fair or arcade. Places with great views are also ideal and gives you a chance to show your passionate side.
Strategize
Get your buddy to agree on a time window for the whole date. Before going out, come up with a specific time to evaluate how the evening is going.
Let's say the date starts at 6 pm. You can step out at 9 pm to see if both you and your friend want to stay out until the end of the date. If one of you wants to stick around, be a pal and stay another two hours before calling it a night. It is unadvisable for one of you to head off and the other to remain, that is unless both parties are hooking up. It's pretty awkward if one person breaks off from a double blind date, forcing one person to be a "third wheel".
Keep it familiar
Stay at places you are familiar with, like a restaurant that has your favorite food or a lounge with great waiters. Stick to ones that have a comfortable atmosphere with crowds that aren't overwhelming. Avoid clubs. There is nothing more frustrating than waiting in long lines just to get into a crowded club on a first or second date. Get creative and put your heads together to find places that are fun and comfortable so everyone is loosey goosey throughout the night.
Have your friend's back
Be the ideal wingman for each other. When your buddy steps out to the bar, make sure to say something nice about your buddy if he gives the signal that he's interested in his date. Body language is everything, especially when you're in a loud setting. Make sure to avoid looking restricted with your movements, and smile.
Don't touch your phones
Don't be glued to your phone the whole night. It gives off the impression that you are not interested. If you absolutely must reply to a text or an email, do it subtly and check back when you're heading to the bathroom. If you are not having a good time, don't be tempted to text other people. Instead, talk to your buddy! He is with you on this double date after all.
Everyone just wants to have a fun time, so plan ahead when you intend to go on a double blind date with your buddy. Just as with many things in life, planning can really turn things around for the better. So keep these tips in mind and have a great double blind date!
Ever been to a blind date? Share your experiences in the comments below!
