She's agreed to a first date. Where should you go? What should you do?

Of course, the objective of a first date is to see if there will be a second. Allow time for that, but not too much time, in case the date's a bust. And for now, focus on the present. Here are some great ideas for first-date outings:

1. Some prefer an activity. Hitting golf balls, playing miniature golf, or strolling around a large shopping mall, with its variety of activities -- restaurants, drop-in eateries, places to sit and talk or to listen to live music, or even window shopping -- will fill the time.

2. Group events will show how your date interacts with others. Picnics rank high; they're casual. If the date gets boring, go kick a soccer ball.

3. Local events such as street fairs, festivals, and concerts-in-the-park are often free and will keep you busy. County fairs teem with activities. Guys, be aware -- she may ask you to swing the hammer and ring the bell. Added plus: corn dogs and cotton candy.

4. A casual dinner in a fun, relaxed environment can be intense if the only distractions are the menu and the quality of food and service. The music must be low enough so you can hear each other. Watch how she treats the restaurant staff, and check out her table manners.

Look Nice. This doesn't mean you have to wear a suit or tuxedo, but you also can't show up wearing nice jeans and a t-shirt. Wear a nice button up shirt open with a shirt underneath. This looks much better when not tucked in, and can be done with a blazer jacket or without. Don't wear dress pants. Slap on your favorite pair of jeans, as long as they're not all ripped up or covered in dirt.
Don't wear anything with bad jokes on it. Bad jokes are definitely a big no-no but words on a t-shirt is more than fine, especially if its a unique piece/vintage/not seen in most chain stores. It makes you stand out as someone who cares about their casual clothing and isn't just a slave to fashion labels.
Mind your manners. This is a key ingredient for a successful date. No girl likes a guy who's rude and obnoxious, but don't be too formal either.
Have good table manners. Chew with your mouth closed, don't slurp your drink, don't talk with your mouth full, burp, fart, or do anything that could be perceived as disgusting. If you do this, then the date will be OVER!!!
Make a decent departure. Hug each other. Kiss her on the cheek if you want to, but don't go into deep and intimate kissing. And if she gives you her phone number, always call her within 2-3 days afterwards. When you leave a message don't say why you called but just say to call back and leave your phone number even if she has it.

A first date is any type of initial meeting between two individuals whether or not previously acquainted where an effort is made to ask, plan and organize some sort of social activity. Dating can vary between cultures, lifestyles, religion, gender, and sexual orientation. In many countries and cultures it is the process that romantic relationships are developed and future spouses are found. Often, people are set up on dates by their friends, or they meet the individual at work, a party, or in class.

Purpose of a date
The purpose of a first date is the same as the purpose of any date. Because they often set the tone for the relationship, first dates are highly important. As the study by Mary Claire Morr Serewicz of the Department of Human Communication Studies at the University of Denver, and Paul Mongeau of Arizona State University, states that first dates "represent an important early event in the development of dating relationship." For example, if a date doesn’t go according to one's standards, the couple might choose to only be platonically involved, which means having no romantic relationship. However, if the date was successful and both parties’ goals were accomplished a second date might be lined up. First dates represent potential relational turning points in an individual's life.

Components of a date

Mongeau's research shows that the term "date" can be condensed into four subcategories:

1. Dyadic: The purpose to which the date is occurring between two individuals.

2. Date cycle: Includes the major behavior components of a date.

3. Positive interaction expectancies: Implies that dates allow each other a chance to get to know one another in a comfortable environment.

4. Sexual overtones: Refers to the part of the date where romantic relationships may develop and/or include sexual attraction or expectation.

These components are the basis of a date, making up its structure and providing the involved a starting place from which to begin the dating process.