Dating can be stressful but first dates can be particularly painful and nerve wrecking. Follow my simple tips to getting ready for a date and before you know it you'll be breezing through first dates with you're only concern being what to wear on your second date.

1. Don't stress!
First of all, try not to stress yourself out. Tell yourself, it's only a date and if it doesn't work out, so what?

2. Easy on the wedding plans
You may laugh but don't start planning your wedding! We've all been there; dreaming that this could be the one, that you'll fall in love after a whirlwind romance and get married... and all before you've ordered your starter! Obviously, it's good to be positive but just take each day as it comes in the early stages otherwise you could be heading for disappointment.

3. Listen to music
Listen to some music whilst you're getting ready; whatever gets you in the mood for a night out and relaxes you.

4. Soak in a bath
If you have time, take a long soak in the bath with a small glass of wine to relax you. I emphasise the word "small"; you don't want to turn up drunk or smelling of alcohol.

5. Subtle make-up
Girls, try to keep your make-up subtle. The majority of men don't like to see make-up caked on and if you do happen to snuggle up to your date, he won't be too impressed if you leave make-up on his collar. As a basic rule, if you're going for smoky eyes, keep your lips natural with a lick of gloss and if you're opting for the red Monroe pout then keep your eyes natural.

6. Hair to go
You don't want a high maintenance hair style that has you running to the toilet every two minutes to check it's in place so stick to what you know suits you and what you feel comfortable with. Also, easy on the hair products in case your date decides to run his fingers through your hair and gets them stuck!

7. What to wear?
Don't wear anything too revealing on a first date as it could give out the wrong impression. Remember you can still look sexy without revealing all your goods; less is more!

Decide what you're going to wear in advance so you're not in a last minute panic with a bedroom floor covered in reject outfits. The main thing is to feel comfortable in what you're wearing so you look relaxed; fidgeting with straps and pulling down your hemline every few minutes doesn't look good.

Your choice of outfit will obviously depend on where you are going; if it's fancy restaurant then you can glam it up but if it's a lunchtime date or the cinema then dress it down accordingly.

8. Killer heels or comfy flats?
As for shoes, heels look great but only if you can walk in them so only wear shoes that you are comfortable in. Also, don't wear new shoes in case you get blisters on the night. Again, your choice of shoes will depend on where you are going so dress for the venue.

9. Fresh breath
Don't forget to clean your teeth and rinse with a mouthwash. It may sound obvious but so many people forget. Also, keep a packet of mints or chewing gum in your bag in case you need to freshen up later.

10. Aroma, aroma!
Once you're ready, don't forget to squirt a bit of your favourite perfume behind the ears and on your wrist (these are the strongest pulse points). Don't go overboard, the key is to have an aroma about you, not to overpower him with your scent.

11. Arrange transport
Book a taxi or arrange for someone to give you a lift so you get to your meeting place in plenty of time. I wouldn't advise accepting any offer to pick you up or take you home until you've got to know him.

12. Keep the conversation flowing
Give some thought to what you're going to talk about. Obviously, you can't plan it word for word but think about things you want to find out about him and questions you could ask to keep the conversation flowing. If you know a good joke, it's always good to throw that in at some point in the evening to lighten the mood.

13. A kiss goodnight - no more!
Don't feel pressured into going back to his place or inviting him into yours and certainly don't feel pressured into having sex! I think it's best to end the evening with a goodnight kiss so you both leave each other wanting more and more importantly eager to arrange that second date. If you can't trust yourself to resist his charm go unshaven in the nether regions so that way you won't be tempted to go any further than a kiss!

14. Watch your drink
Don't drink excessively! It's easy to drink faster and more than you would normally because of your nerves but try and pace yourself and if you do feel yourself getting more than tipsy, drink some water.

Also, if you don't know your date well take your drink with you when you go to the toilets; with so many drinks being spiked in bars these days it's better to be safe than sorry.

15. Tell a friend
Tell a friend or family member where you're going and who with and let them know when you've arrived home safe.

16. Have fun
Finally, don't forget to enjoy yourself and have fun!

About the Author
Alison Edwards runs http://www.freechatlinenumber.net/ a UK based dating site. SnappyDates.com is an active community where people of all ages meet looking for a relationship, friendship and even marriage!