Reduced alcohol dating

Whether you’re going out on a nerve racking first date or you’ve already been out a few times with someone you really like, the situation can encourage you to drink more than you would with people you know.

While a little alcohol can help you feel confident and a little more relaxed, too much could make you say or do something cringe worthy. Not great if you are trying to impress someone you don’t know too well.

Take a different approach

Cutting back on the booze gives you the perfect excuse to get creative while planning a date. Rather than the usual restaurant or date down the pub, you could come up with something really special. Why not show your cultured side by taking your date to the theatre or to an art gallery, many of which are open late on at least one day of the week.

Keeping it local

If you’re a few dates in it might be time to start showing your new love interest around your local area - the chances are that they won’t have been to some of your favourite haunts, especially if they live in a different part of town. A walk in your local park, or maybe a casual lunch in your favourite caff - all alcohol free and things that will show them more of the real you.

For further suggestions of ways to have a good time without alcohol, check out our alcohol free nights on the town feature.

The true way to a person’s heart

The ultimate personal touch is of course your own home cooking. Being the host means you are in control of how much alcohol you want with the meal, which makes a refreshing change from waiters topping up your wine glass every five minutes. You could even champion a no alcohol meal for two – read our reduced alcohol dinner party feature to find out how. 

A quick guide to good dating…

Pace yourself. While a quick drink might help to hone your wit, you might be making far less sense after two or three. Alternating or replacing alcohol with soft drinks means you drink less, stay hydrated and keep a clear head throughout the night.

Stay safe. Out on a first date with someone new? Make sure a friend knows exactly where you are and can phone to rescue you if things aren’t going so well.

Know your limits. It might turn out that it’s your date rather than you who is knocking back the drinks all too enthusiastically. Don’t feel that you’ve got to keep up. Saying that you’re having a soft drink next will probably make them realise that they should be doing the same.  

Eat, drink and be merry. Whether you’re cooking at home for your date or heading out, a date is a  great excuse to indulge in foodie treats. Best of all, food slows down the body’s absorption of alcohol, so you can really savour your evening.

Page last updated by

Root User, 19 Apr 2010.

Page checked on

06 Feb 2009