29 June 2006

First date ideas for single Boomers

Finally, all the hard work on the online dating sites, working your social network, or just plain getting out and about has led to you to meet a potential significant other. Congratulations! Now you get to plan your first date. I’m sure each of us has done the old standby “meet for coffee”, but there are plenty of first date ideas that are simple but just different enough to make this initial date special.

In her article Fun First Dates for Single Seniors author Sharon O’brien shares ten great first date tips for singles over 50. A few of my favorites:

Spread a Blanket. Nothing is more romantic than a picnic in a beautiful spot. Make it even more special by shopping together to choose the food and wine that will fill your basket. It’s a great opportunity to share some of your favorite things with someone you’re just getting to know.

To Market, To Market. Check out a farmers market or flea market in your area. Browsing among the stalls and having so many different things to see and discuss will help keep the conversation flowing.

Fruit of the Vine. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or have trouble telling Cabernet from Merlot, visiting a local winery or attending a wine tasting together is a great way to get to know each other while learning something new and sampling one of life’s true pleasures.

As I was reading the list it also occurred to me that these first date tips would also work well to add a little variety to long-term relationships as well. Variety is the spice of life!