First "Blind date" Strategies

Dear Brenda,

I'm new to this online dating (like everyone else). A woman and I passed a few emails and she wants to meet me. This is great as it's the whole purpose for doing this! Though I enjoyed her emails and know a bit about her I feel like this is still a blind date. Are there rules in this? Do we kiss/hug/shake hands when we meet? How should I go about this?
- renegadenoodle

Dear renegadenoodle,

I think it will all boil down to the intital physical chemistry you feel when you both first set eyes on each other. If you're both very attracted to each other, then it might feel more natural to give a friendly hug at a first meeting. I would save the first kiss for a more meaningful moment. Build up some anticipation first. You could both feel very attracted to each other and then get nervous, so even a handshake might seem too much. I've heard that when you are near to someone that you are very physically attracted to, your eyes will water. (so bring a tissue along on your date, or some sunglasses).

If you've spend a few weeks getting to know each other via email and had a few telephone calls before the date, then you should be able to gauge how much you have in common and what subjects that you might want to discuss. I've always found that if you feel that you would be able to spend an hour with someone and have a great time based on what you know of their personality and conversational skills via email and telephone, then you'll have a good time on the date - even if there is no chemistry. If you can remember not to have too many expectations on this date (it's just a date), then you'll be in a calmer frame of mind when you do meet. Have a great time!

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