5 BIGGEST MISTAKES MEN MAKE ON FIRST DATES

When it comes to the dating pool we are often expected to meet all sorts of unwritten criteria, most of which isn't jotted down in any kind of handy rule book, or on a sticky post-it note, oh no. Many men are just simply expected to not mess up with these things, and I know for one, that when I was free and single and ready to mingle (all those many years ago!) I was pretty damn terrible whilst constantly messing things up in the process.

Today let's take the pressure off a little and revisit some of the more common mistakes that we are all probably guilty of making at sometime or another, in the hope that we can learn a little somethin' somethin' moving on forward into the big pond of the dating world. As after all is said and done we stand as a nation of hopeless romantics continuously searching for love...

MAKE SURE YOU ARE ON TIME, MISTER!

First up, you have to make sure you start off on the right foot, and something as simple as having your timekeeping in check certainly plays the biggest part when it comes to making the right first impression on a person. If you turn up late not only does is instantly highlight your poor punctuality skills, but it is almost guaranteed to start the date on a soggy note right from the start.

If you have a genuine reason for turning out a little later than you had first intended to, give them a quick call to explain, or maybe a quick apologetic text, then explain your lateness once more when you do arrive to show your sincerity, that should usually solve any inconveniences.

DON'T TALK ABOUT ANY OF YOUR EX PARTNERS, NO MATTER HOW GOOD OF A STORY YOU HAVE!

Sometimes we get lost in conversation when we are having fun and enjoying ourselves, so lost in fact, that we might bring up fun and interesting stories from our past in the hope to raise a little laughter along the way.

But one of the biggest no no's has to be bringing up an ex partner in conversation to a possible future love interest. Even if you think it'll win 'story of the night', nobody wants to hear about another person you were once in a relationship with prior to meeting them, it's just a little awkward and uncomfortable, and might even be an indication that you are not ready to move on.

Sometimes during a date you might get asked questions about your past, such as your hobbies and interests. Your ex partner should NOT be one of them. Noted.

BE POLITE, SHOW INTEREST AND HAVE GOOD TABLE MANNERS!

Following good manners and good table talk skills will also make the most lasting impression upon a potential partner during your first date. More often than not when we settle into the date, we make little mistakes and out table manners may go right out of the window.

Just remember, you're trying to seek a potential partner here, a trusty side kick, a possible love interest, so burping out loud or talking with your mouth full of half chewed food won't win you any favours. Also, make sure you keep a napkin or those pocket sized wet wipes at hand to quickly remove any spillages you might find in your facial hair when you have eaten.

There's nothing worse than having your face fuzz full of crumbs and spillages from the smashing meal you've both just romantically shared together. As who's gonna want to plant a wet one on a crummy face, am I right?

FIX UP, LOOK SHARP!

So, you've hand selected your finest glad rags that you have, and shined up your favourite winning shoes, heck, you might even be secretly sporting your lucky underwear underneath it all, but make sure you brush up on you manly man skills, and groom that marvelous beard of yours neat and tidy. Splash on a helping of premium beard tonic and balm, sharpen up your freshly cut hair, splash on some sweet cologne and be the dapper gentleman that only you can be.

If you are packing a large beard you might find that a beard balm will give you better style and control of an unruly beard, then touch up as you go with a dab of TBS beard oil to seal the deal.

BE A GENT, OPEN THE DOOR AND OFFER TO PAY THE BILL!

Every potential date wants to meet the perfect gentleman. Either it's us blokes that strive to be the perfect date, or on the flipside we seeking our very own Mr/Mrs Right. So, remember to brush up and deliver whenever possible. Open the door for your date, pull out the chair from the table before you take your seat, the classic finer touches are always the most memorable and won't go unnoticed either.

Sometimes it is the little things that really matter and make all the difference.

So, that's today's blog thought up, written and posted for now my friends. If you feel you have a tip that you would like to add then please let us know in the comments section.

And until next time, Beard on Brothers, Beard on...