So, you’re rounding the corner to the third date. You like each other, but what happens now? How can you make the third date special?
A third date isn’t just any old date. It’s actually a thin line that can determine the direction of this potential relationship. Sure, a third date can be a fun one on the path to more casual dating. It can also be the beginning of something a bit more romantic.
If you’ve been on two dates with a special someone, and both of you are still keen to see each other again, it’s definitely a good sign.
At this point, you like each other to some degree. Do you want to take things to the next level? Maybe you just want to make this date a little more special. Whatever you want out of this, there are some tips to make the third date the best it can be. [Read: 10 third date ideas you’ll have so much fun on]
Why the third date is important
By the time date number three comes along, you know if this is someone you enjoy or not. Maybe you see them as a friend. Maybe you’re attracted to them. But this date tells you if you want to pursue things and in what way.
The first date tests the likeability. The second confirms that, but the third is something a little more. You don’t have to be official. And you certainly don’t have to confess your love. But, by this time, you should have at least a vibe of how you’re feeling.
Making this date a little different than the first two can help if you aren’t there yet. [Read: What does the third date mean?]
Tips for a great third date
The third date may not be the beginning of a relationship, but it may lead to one down the line.
If you want to ensure that it’s a romantic success, you’ll want to bring things up a notch. Instead of coffee or dinner, try something else. Be a little more creative with your plans.
Doing something out of your comfort zone, teaching them something, or just being a little more open can strengthen your bond.
From there, who knows what might happen? Either way, you want to have a great time, so why not put in a little more effort?
1. Don’t go over the top
Be casual and fun on the third date. Be the real you, like you were spending a lazy day with your partner doing anything that both of you love. You don’t need to spend a lot or make some big romantic gesture. Speak about your goals and passions and maybe your future. [Read: Things to keep in mind to have a perfect date]
2. Make it longer
The best third date is when both of you free up an entire day to be with each other. Okay, maybe not the whole day, but extend the date beyond an hour or two. Drive to someplace about an hour away from the city and spend an afternoon picnic in a romantic spot. Whatever you choose to do, try to spend more time with each other.
The longer you’re together, the most comfortable you’ll feel and be able to open up.
3. Kiss when you meet
If you’ve kissed already and share great chemistry, it’s completely acceptable to kiss each other when you first meet for this date. You may have missed them or have been anxious to see them. You don’t need to make out, but a quick kiss to greet each other is sweet at this point. [Read: How to kiss passionately and romantically]
4. Do something fun
Amusement parks are a lot of fun. They have loads of fun things to do, and every scary ride would only get the adrenalin pumping, increasing the chemistry and sexual attraction between you.
You can also go mountain climbing or do something else a little less generic. Changing things up gets you to be a little more vulnerable. It forces you to be yourself and really get to know someone in a setting that isn’t a coffee shop or restaurant.
5. Tease each other
You might be extra polite for dates one and two, but teasing is wonderful by date three. Teasing is a great way to build banter and tension between you. It is silly and fun and makes you feel like a teenager again.
Flirting isn’t just for before a date, but during dating too. Sure, you can be romantic, but teasing makes everyone smile. Just keep it light and be sure not to hit below the belt, so to speak. [Read: 15 clear signs they are flirting with you]
6. PDA
Hold hands while walking around. Cuddle each other if you see a show or at a concert. Kiss each other when you have a few seconds of alone time in the parking lot. Bring out the fun teenager in you, and you’ll create a date that’s both romantic and sexy.
On the first couple of dates, you are still figuring out what they are comfortable with and how you feel. On the third date, you can put your arm around your date in public, and it shouldn’t be a big deal. If you’re unsure, ask first.
7. Open up
Don’t hold your questions or doubts back. Talk about anything. You can open up about your past relationships, your family, or your dreams. Be vulnerable and willing to answer their questions. It is also a good idea to have a few of your own at the ready as well.
You still have loads to learn about each other. Don’t let the comfort you may feel with them override that you still need to learn more.
8. Try to bond
Take pictures together or buy something for each other when you’re out shopping. If you’re at an amusement park, win something for each other. No matter where you are, look for ways to have fun and create memories with each other.
Having sweet moments like this will clue you in to how you feel. Do you want a photo with them, or will you just toss it? This can let you know how far you want things to go. [Read: How to be romantic without being cheesy]
9. Do regular things
Reveal more about yourself through doing more casual things together. Cook them dinner at your place. Head to your favorite local spot or even run errands together. It may not be sexy, but being a little more personal with each other can show you how far you’re willing to take this.
Do they make mundane tasks more fun, or do they complain about lines and service workers? This is a good time to find out the answers to questions like this because you can’t really ask that. If you did, they’d probably lie.
10. Be as physical as you both want
Sure, lots of people have a third date rule when it comes to sex or even kissing. If that is you, good for you. If not, also good for you.
The third date can be whatever you want it to be. Head back to their place or yours. Or hug them good night if that is your pace. Try not to focus too much on this aspect just yet, whether you’re down or not.
You can enjoy yourself and maintain respect for yourself, or you can stick to hugs and kisses on the cheek and still have fun. [Read: 10 reasons why the third date rule works so well]
11. Share your expectations
By the third date, you may want to clue your date into what you have in mind. You don’t have to have the “what are we” talk, but try to let them know what you want before you two get any closer.
Do you want a friend with benefits, are you looking for something casual, or would you rather be exclusive?
12. Change up the plan
Do something a little spontaneous. This is totally up to you, but changing the plans at this point can help you see how they deal with sudden changes. At first, you make a date and stick to it, but now maybe you heard of a different restaurant at work and would rather try that than where you originally decided.
Planned just for dinner? Ask if they want to go for ice cream or go dancing after. See if they are down for whatever or if they prefer a strict plan. [Read: 10 romantic and spontaneous moves men should try]
13. Do you like them?
Stop worrying so much about if they like you. You can get so swept up in that question that you forget to pay attention to whether or not you like them.
Think about any jokes they made. Did something make you uncomfortable? Were they rude to the waiter? Did they comment on a stranger’s looks? It is easy to brush those things off when you want something to work out, but before getting in any deeper, really pay attention to if you like them.
14. Are your schedules aligned?
This can be a huge issue if you plan on seeing this person more regularly. Maybe you planned out some dates when you both had time off, but now, how will this work? Do you live far apart? Do they work nights while you work days?
Talk about this. It may seem boring and not romantic, but it can make things complicated fast. Nailing out these bumps in the road now can save you a lot of trouble later, even if you want to be casual. [Read: 60 get to know you questions for a new romance]
15. Bring up things you’ve talked about already
Show your date that you remember and pay attention. Bring up something they mentioned. Was it their mom’s birthday last weekend? Did they have a big presentation at work? Ask how those things went.
This shows that you care and really listen to what they have to say.
16. Tell them how you feel
It may not be time to confess your love, but it is time to let them know if you like them. If you don’t want to say that, let them know you’re interested. By the end of this date you should be able to let them know if you want to see them again or not.
[Read: 13 warning signs to look out for on the first few dates]
The third date is a little more substantial than the first or second, but they aren’t quite official either. Make a third date all your own with these tips and tricks.
