5 Tips for a First Date After Meeting Online

The world of dating is not for the faint-hearted. It comes with a rollercoaster of emotions — two of the most common being excitement, juxtaposed with anxiety.

Throw in dating with a disability, and it adds a whole other layer of emotion. If you’ve met someone online and have a legitimate connection, meeting in person on your first date is a profound moment.

Being nervous is all part of the process. Check out this blog on tips for a first date and how to leave a lasting impression.

1. Keep It Brief and Meet in Public

Like it or not, you’re always taking a little bit of a gamble by meeting someone online, then choosing to meet in public.

It’s no secret that the online world comes with its fair share of pitfalls and phonies. That’s why your first meeting should be short and in a public place. Pick a popular restaurant or coffee shop to meet up.

Keep in mind that the person you’re meeting is a stranger, even if you’ve been talking to them online for months. You always want to err on the side of caution.

Plan your date for the middle of the day, such as a lunchtime date. This way you can set aside an hour or so for the date, and not feel tempted or pressurized into staying too long.

A first meetup is not necessarily a ”romantic” date. It’s just a chance to get to know this new person, in the flesh.

2. Put Your Best Foot Forward

There’s nothing shallow about wanting to present the best version of yourself on your first in-person date.

While looks aren’t everything, it doesn’t hurt to make a good first impression. Not only will this help to leave a lasting impression, but it can also help you to feel confident in yourself — however that looks or feels to you.

Top tip: if you’re using a mobility aid, don’t forget to freshen it up too. All it needs is a quick wipe down, wash, or polish to look presentable.

3. Plan Ahead and Account for Extra Travel Time

Being late for a date is a major red flag (for either party). Don’t be ”that person”. It doesn’t make you look good, especially if the other party is on time and left waiting. If you’re running late, have the courtesy to let them know.

It’s super important to account for delays and plan ahead of time. Traffic is an everyday reality, even if you plan to meet in the middle of the day. If you’re using public transport, account for bus, train, ferry, or tram delays, too.

Remember to carry enough money with you to pay for extra travel expenses, should they arise.

4. Be Open and Honest About Your Disability

While it’s important that you’re honest about your disability and how it affects you, take your time when bringing up the topic.

There is no rush to dive right into it, if you’re not comfortable doing so. On the other hand, you might want to talk about it right away in order to proceed with the rest of the conversation. This could be the case if your date is unaware of your disability before meeting in person.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. There are no real ”do’s and don’ts”.

When explaining your disability, talk about how it impacts you, rather than simply offering a generic ”diagnosis” explanation. This will help your date to understand you better, and that’s the most important thing.

5. Show Interest and Ask Questions

Believe it or not, your date is most likely just as nervous as you, if not more so. Especially if you’ve formed a real connection online and have feelings for one another.

Don’t make the common faux-pas of talking about yourself the entire date. Even if you aren’t the conceited type, it can come across this way if you forget to show interest in your date!

Yes, sometimes talking about yourself is a matter of rambling due to nerves. You might not even realize you’re doing it.

But remember to take a deep breath, relax, and ask your date some questions. Give them an equal opportunity to speak and ask questions in return.

Before you know it, you’ll establish a good rapport with one another and start to feel comfortable.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Make Assumptions

It’s always difficult when you think you have a real connection with someone, only to never hear from them again after your first date. It might feel like a crushing defeat.

This is not necessarily a common reality, but it can happen. In this case, try not to make assumptions about how your date feels about you. Living with a disability does not define you. It’s simply part of your life, it’s not the whole picture.

If your date does not contact you after your first meeting, it could come down to myriad reasons and have nothing to do with your disability. And remember to never settle!

Looking for More Tips for a First Date?

Looking to join an exclusive community that puts your needs first, while trying to find your ideal partner? This is where Special Bridge has you covered.

As a private dating site and online community, you can find tips for a first date, and helpful, friendly support, in a safe setting. The online world of dating is daunting — but we’re here to help you out!