You're about to go out on your first date. Exciting, isn't it? It all comes down to this one moment, so you have got to make sure that the first impression is a lasting one. You want your date to walk away thinking not only how much fun he had, but also how much fun he could have... if things were different. The following dating tips are guaranteed to give you an edge in romance! 1) Always Go For Dinner! Probably the most common first date idea, the dinner date can take up more of your time but definitely sets the mood for eye contact and talking. "Going out for a nice dinner [gives you] the opportunity to share the dining experience while getting to know each other," Greer says. 2) Leave Your Phone In Your Car! We all have that little thing in the back of our mind that is telling us to 'check up on life'. We consider it, we rationalize it and then when we look around... yup... everyone else has their nose buried in a phone too. Fight off your urge by "leaving [your] phone in [your] car," Schwartz suggests. "It allows [you] to focus on the person at hand instead of what's happening elsewhere." 3) Don't Over-Plan Everything! Be spontaneous -- together! It helps create an element of romance and shows that you're not afraid to take a risk or two, especially when it comes to dating. "Go with your gut," Schwartz says, "and don't over-plan." 4) Be Spontaneous! It's OK if you're not the most romantic guy in the room. The best dating ideas are usually mundane and everyday occurrences -- so break out of your shell! Make sure you do whatever it takes to make your date feel appreciated. Apple picking, bowling or even a local museum are all great ways to spend an afternoon... 5) ... But Not Too Spontaneous! Remember what we said about being spontaneous? Use it as a dating tool, but remember that there is such thing as too far. Keep the spontaneity rolling by doing fun activities that both of you will enjoy, though do not go out of your way to perform any grand gestures. These dating tips are meant to help you, not turn you into a complete fool! "It's OK to show that you're thinking about someone else, but don't be overly romantic -- it might scare them away," Schwartz warns. "The dating world is fairly straightforward, so have fun with it!" 6) Look Good... Feel Good! We all know the saying 'you only get one chance to make a first impression' -- this dating advice holds true for both ends of the spectrum. Whether you opt for chic or casual clothes really depends on who you are as well as who your date is. Just remember that there isn't anything sexier than dressing to impress, so stay sharp! 7) Don't Forget The Basics! Manners are essential in dating... you might not think so at first glance but they are. When using any dating ideas that involve meeting for the first time or even just on a regular date remember to shake hands, look into your date's eyes and say their name when greeting them. Manners have an amazing way of letting someone know that they're important enough for you to take notice! 8) Make Your Date Feel Special! Everyone is looking for someone who will make them feel like they are the only person in the room. Whether this comes naturally or by force you need to make your date feel special -- it will make both of your evenings more memorable and enjoyable. "Make sure that you're giving your date your undivided attention," Greer says, "and that they believe you're interested in what they have to say and find them interesting." 9) Don't Only Converse About Yourself! Everyone likes to talk about themselves... even if it's just a little bit. Too much of the dating advice out there is about keeping up with the discussion centered on you and what you like or don't like. Much like dating itself this dating tip isn't about breaking the rules as much as it is about understanding how things really work: dating will be more enjoyable for both people when there is a balance between talking and listening. 10) Always Keep An Open Mind! Look at dating as an experience, not a competition. As fun as dating can be it's easy to get wrapped up in the idea of winning, but dating isn't a game and there is no award for coming out victorious. Be yourself and relax -- dating was meant to be enjoyed by all! 11) ... Sometimes You Have To Compromise! Some dating ideas will work really well -- but sometimes they just won't have that 'spark'. When you're dating it's hard not to stick to your guns on certain things, especially if you've been together a long time or feel strongly about one option over another. However, remember that dating rules are set up with the aim of creating a good time for both parties involved -- dating will be more fun if the rules are adhered to! 12) ... But Sometimes You Have To Stand Your Ground! When dating is involved you need to remember that you're only dating one person. Though dating is about compromise it's also important not to lose yourself in dating rules and etiquette... this includes your interests, personality and identity. "You want them to realize that you're an individual with your own thoughts and ideas," Greer says, "who has a lot of respect for themselves." Remember: dating should be both parties getting the most out of their time together -- what works for someone else isn't always right for you so do try to keep an open mind when dating but never forget who you are or what it