5 relationship firsts
There are some special moments in the early days of the relationship. Some can set the tempo for a budding romance, while some can become treasured memories a couple can eventually tell their grandchildren about! However, they can also be hurdles to a relationship if they don’t go well. So, whether they met in a bar or online dating UK couples should always watch how they work their way around these five relationship firsts:
The first date
One of the biggest firsts is, of course, the first date. And it’s just as daunting if you met on a Sheffield dating site as it is if you were introduced by friends. A first date should be relaxed, friendly and not too stressful – but if it goes well, you’ll also have an impossible-to-define feeling of chemistry.
Afterwards
It’s important to stay cool about your first date. Even if you feel it went great, you don’t want to scare your date off. Instead, send a brief text the next morning telling them you had a great time, and asking if they feel like meeting up again soon.
The first night together
Spending your first night together can be magical. Of course, you need to respect the other person’s boundaries and self-esteem to make the experience great for both of you.
Afterwards
If you’re both comfortable, this shouldn’t be too big a shift in your relationship. Remember that the other things you two do together – talking, walking together, eating out – are still just as important.
The first gift
Gift giving is an important thing in every culture. In the modern dating world, it shows you’re thinking about the other person and you want to share with them.
Afterwards
Tell the other person you appreciate the gift and ask them what made them choose it. You’ll find out a lot about their tastes and opinions, as well as their perception of you.
The first time you meet the parents
Parents-in-law are the staple of much comedy fodder – but meeting the parents doesn’t have to be a nightmare. After all, these people produced your sweetie, so they can’t be so bad! It’s important, the first time you meet parents, to set a tone that you want to last throughout the relationship.
Afterwards
Stay polite and friendly, and go with the flow. Tell your other half what you like about their parents (not what you dislike!), and a few days later, send them an email saying how much you enjoyed yourself.
The first fight
This isn’t a pleasant one, but it needs to be dealt with. Mature adults shouldn’t break up over the first fight.
Afterwards
Admit fault. No argument is one sided, so there’ll always be something you can apologise for – even if you think the other person was in the wrong about some things.
Getting to know someone is one of the most wonderful things about life. Try to relish the firsts, whatever they are.
