At Maclynn we recommend the following when you are arranging your first date:
WhatsApp Profile Photo: Consider updating your photo to the one they have already seen of you for consistency.
Treat the first meeting as a chemistry check – a low-pressure way to explore if there’s potential for more.
If you live in different countries, we recommend a video call (Teams, Facetime, Zoom, etc.) as an initial step before arranging an in-person meeting.
If you’re in the same region, pick a location roughly equidistant.
If you’re in different countries:
Remember, this is a moment to genuinely get to know someone, so make sure you are showcasing the real you but also that you’re judgement isn’t impacted.
Put your phone away, make eye contact, and listen attentively.
Speak kindly, respect boundaries, and be considerate of differing views.
You don’t need to overshare but aim to be authentic and emotionally open.
Stay curious rather than critical. Not every match will be “the one,” but every interaction is an opportunity to grow.
While it might be tempting to have a drink or two to calm your nerves, we strongly advise against getting drunk on a first date. A glass of wine or a cocktail can help ease into conversation, but excessive drinking impairs judgement, disrupts connection, and often leads to regret.
We recommend a maximum of 2 drinks, or none at all if you feel more grounded that way. Remember, this is a moment to genuinely get to know someone, not to blur the lines.
Let the conversation flow naturally. Keep it light, engaging, and playful. You’re not conducting an interview – we’ve already done that part. Your role is to explore connectedness and shared values.
“Lovely weather today!”
“I work in design”
“I think creativity is underrated in business”
“I felt nervous coming here, but this has been really lovely”
Use these as inspiration – not a checklist. Choose one or two that feel natural:
People often go on first dates expecting to be entertained and impressed by their match. If you both adopt this mindset, you risk creating a really inauthentic experience.
Instead, adopt this mindset: you are there to ‘host’ your match. Your focus should be towards making sure they are comfortable, enjoying themselves and feeling heard. When you both lean into each other in this way, the date is more likely to be a success.
No fireworks? No problem. Unless there’s a clear reason not to, a second date can give you further perspective. Remember, most people aren’t really able to show the best of themselves over just one date.
Oversharing sensitive, negative or vulnerable information about yourself too soon. By showing interest and warmth, you invite your date to do the same.
Gentlemen: If you value chivalry, offering to pay is a welcome gesture.
At Maclynn, we generally recommend that men offer to pay on the first date. It is not about tradition for its own sake, but about leading with care and creating a sense of emotional safety.
A large study of more than 17,000 adults found that 58% of women report that men pay for most date expenses, and many feel more positive when this happens. For many women, it is not about outdated gender roles, but about feeling respected and taken seriously.
Ladies: Be prepared to pay for yourself. If he offers to cover the bill, accept graciously or offer to reciprocate (“I’ll get the next round”).
Same-sex couples: Alternate rounds or agree in advance.
It’s not about money – it’s about appreciation, thoughtfulness, and comfort.
Be kind and clear. Let your date know within 24 hours if you’d like to see them again.
If you’re unsure, a simple message to say “thanks for a lovely evening” is a good holding pattern.
Don’t overanalyse speed of replies or worry about seeming too keen – a single follow-up is kind, not needy.
