20 Rules For Your First Online Date

Welcome to Online Dating Bootcamp: Day 7! Today is all about the first date with your internet match, featuring advice from YourTango Experts Jenn Burton & Dina Colada. (Wanna brush up on Bootcamp Days 1-6? Start here.)

Let's face it, if you aren't nervous before a first date, you probably don't have a pulse. There's so much pressure. What if he doesn't like you? What if you don't like him? What if you say the wrong thing? Sure, you've been hitting it off over email and on the phone, but a face-to-face encounter is a whole other ball of wax. Take these tips from our experts to ensure that your next first date goes flawlessly.

More from YourTango: 10 Surprising Things That Turn Men On

1. Safety first. I love a chivalrous man, but it is absolutely necessary to take your own ride to a first date with an online suitor. Also make sure that someone knows where you are and who you are on a date with as well. Be sure to give your friend his phone number and email address. —Jenn Burton, Have Him Your Way

2. Be yourself. When he asks where you would like to go, don't say "wherever you like." Tell him where you would like him to take you. Sharing one small suggestion like where to go on a date gives him a clue about how to adore you. It also takes an enormous pressure off of him. —Jenn Burton

3. Do something fun. Long-term attraction is determined by how much fun he has with you ... but here's the catch: it's not just about what he thinks is a great time. He also wants to know what lights you up. A great idea for a first date is an activity date, like rock wall climbing, an amusement park, an outdoor concert, batting cages, billiards or bowling Toss aside the standard dinner and movies. Instead, ease the tension and increase conversation by inviting him to something you love or have been dying to try. —Jenn Burton

4. Wear something comfortable. Wear something you feel comfortable and pretty in. Make sure your outfit makes you feel fabulous but doesn't render your night miserable because you are adjusting it the whole time. Wear clothes that fit you and flatter your curves. Dressing hoochie mama isn't sexy. —Jenn Burton

More from YourTango: 5 Signs He's Definitely Into You (From Actual Guys)

5. Be positive. Not every first date you have is going to be an immediate chemistry connection, but chemistry can develop over time. Don't count him out just yet. Give him the whole date with your full attention to pique your interest. Start by turning your cell phone off. Pay attention to him. All men have something attractive about them, and chemistry is more likely to develop when you quit obsessing over everything you think is wrong with him and find out what is right. —Jenn Burton

More online dating advice from YourTango Experts:

• YourTango Experts Presents ... Online Dating Bootcamp!
• Is Online Dating Really Worthwhile?
• Which Online Dating Site Is Right For You?