Sometimes a first date can be a double date too when a couple do their best matchmaking thing and ask two friends to join them in the hope they’ll hit it off.
Sometimes a first date can be a double date too when a couple do their best matchmaking thing and ask two friends to join them in the hope they’ll hit it off.
It can be a great idea as you’ve then got four potential conversations, four ideas of where to go, four different drinks or dinners to choose.
We chatted about this in the office and agreed that when we double date we tend to go and eat somewhere, and ideally somewhere that by its very nature encourages you to share the food. I’m thinking tapas, or mezze or even something middle eastern if you have it near you like a Lebanese. In all of these all the food comes as small amounts of flavour packed dishes that are ideal to compare and contrast. It ends up getting a bit messy and it a lot of fun.
The messy food can be even more fun if you all go to a film together first – then you’ve an immediate topic that will get you talking, and it’s hugely unlikely that you’ll all have the same opinion. Probably better to go and see something fun though rather than anything too serious or gory!
What about a trip to a theme park? I don’t think I’d be that keen on going to Alton Towers or Go Ape! as a couple, but if there were two couples, or more then it’s a whole lot better, especially as my girlfriend wants to go on rides that frankly I’m just too scared of, but there’s always someone who’ll join her then.
Cooking dinner for four at home, or one of the other homes means that there is less need to be thinking about entertaining your date as there’ll be three people bantering away happily – just make sure you don’t miss out on the fun! If you live in a modern house or flat then chances are the kitchen will be part of the dining space anyway which makes it easier.
There are a couple of things to think about with double dating, especially when you’re out. You’ll feel a little as if your couple has dated the other couple and you’re likely to almost compare notes about how you felt when you get home. That’s only natural.
Try to agree a few basics up front, like how you’ll split the bill. Some people just don’t drink much (I sometimes wish that was me) and they may resent paying half the drinks bill if the others have been knocking it back. Likewise if you’re getting taxis it may seem awfully formal, but it’s worth agreeing up front how you’ll split the cost.
Double dating should be twice the fun for a change now and then. We hope you have a lot of good times, and maybe you’ll want to share your ideas with us.
