Preparation is the key to a great first date. And a little preparation can go a long way! When you need a little help, look to our guides, and make your first date a smashing success.

These are some helpful suggestions that will send you on the date of your dreams:

* Don't schedule your first date to far out.

The less time you have to worry about all of the minor details, the better off you will be. You don't want your patience to be taxed by the time the big day arrives, this just adds to the stress of the situation.

You will feel excitement at first, but if you are forced to wait to long, then doubts and fears will start to creep into your mind. It's much better to get the first date over with in a more timely manner.

* Choose an informal location.

A first date should be a time where both parties feel comfortable. A better idea would be to pick a less formal place that is more fun. Keep in mind that a formal location can actually hinder the "getting acquainted" process, because you and your date will feel more of the social pressures of the situation.

Thus, you'll be less focused on getting to know each other, and more focused on acting and saying the right thing for the setting in which you find yourselves.

* Try making the first date a lunch date.

Lunch dates can be the perfect first date opportunities. They give you enough time to leisurely get to know one another, with out the pressure of trying to beat the clock. And keep in mind that you can still find that romantic touch in the daylight.

After your first lunch date, you can then schedule dates during evening hours.

*Concentrate on the person and not the place.

There is so much pressure in the details - where to go, what to eat, and what to wear. These are not so important, and the added pressure they can cause is unnecessary.

If you allow this to happen, the pressure may get to you and overshadow the real reason for the date. Which is to have a good time with another person.

* Casual venues can still be nice places.

You can dress casually and still appear clean and attractive. Don't show up to your first date all scruffy and unclean. What kind of impression would that make? You want to appear presentable, and informal all at once. ( Not dirty!)

* Your financial status is not a good topic for first date conversation.

Find something fun and interesting to discuss; do NOT brag about money and possessions. By introducing a less-than-pleasant topic of conversation, you may put a damper on the remainder of the date. Remember, people who tend to be more humble get more dates than those with big egos.

If you follow through with these tips, you'll end up with a great first date experience. This day can be made special in your own way, of course. All you need to do is consider the other person, and try to have a great time with them.