The Art of the Self-Date…Modern dating for Modern women

I never waste my time waiting for the phone to ring in hopes of a date. When there aren’t any desire-able prospects in the horizon, I like to take myself out on a Self-Date. Not only is it fun and empowering, it also gives me ample opportunity to meet someone new! In all honesty, some of the best dates I’ve ever been on have been with me! There is no need to worry about someone else’s happiness, if you’re going to be stood up, or if you’re going to be compatible. Also, you get to make the plans and/or change your mind and go somewhere entirely different depending on where your mood takes you. I love sitting at the bar of a great eatery and treating myself to a fabulous meal.

Sitting at the bar allows for more interaction with other patrons because you’re not at a table and separated. I find it amusing to listen in on some of the unavoidable to hear conversations that go on at the bar and get a glimpse into other people’s lives. I have to admit, I have laughed out loud sometimes at some of the bizarre and odd things I’ve overheard!

So, how do you plan your Self-Date? Here are some of my suggestions to making it a memorable night. But I warn you, you will have so much fun, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do this before!

My 3 tips for a successful Self-Date

1. Location, Location, Location: You want to either have a go-to local spot where you already know the bartender/staff. This makes the entre into an unfamiliar spot avoidable and less daunting. Knowing the bartender is always a good move, because you’ve already established a relationship. She/he can suggest new wines that are close to your liking etc.

I personally like to go somewhere new. This I find gives me a fantastic opportunity to try a new menu and also to scope it out for a possible date location with someone else. No matter where you choose, some place familiar or new, shed your insecurities, saddle up to the bar and prepare to wine and dine yourself!

2. Attire: Just as where you will go on your Self-Date is important, what you wear will also be just as important. For example, you do not want to wear something too flashy, like a sequin dress, or something too revealing when dining out solo. For one, you do not want to draw unwelcoming attention to yourself. Two, you want to attract the welcoming glances from potential dates as well as approving nods and glances from men and women alike. Three, dressing appropriately always puts you in a flattering light and makes you look inviting while giving you self-confidence.

3. Enjoy yourself and have FUN!: The whole point of a date is to spend time in the company of someone you like, appreciate and find adorable. You already have those in the bag. So relax, be your effervescent self and enjoy the moment. Sometimes I find that finding myself outside of my comfort zone, brings out the best in me. And since no one knows you, you have the perfect opportunity to put your best self forward and meet some new people (something which you really can’t easily do on a date with someone else).