14 Steps Men Should Take To Become The Best Valentine's Day Date Ever, From A Man's Perspective

Valentine’s Day, my second favorite holiday, is right around the corner. A lot of men may hate it, but it's the only day when we’re allowed to be truly cheesy without having jealous onlookers roll their eyes.

But years down the line, when conversation may arise during brunch about the best and worst dates you've ever had, you’ll be happy you did everything in your power to be on someone's "unforgettable" list.

Men should spend a bit of money to communicate that they’re happy to spoil their women. Still, Valentine’s Day can be extremely successful without breaking the bank.

Your date already agreed to join you — that was the difficult part. So, now it’s time to create a memorable night. Show this lucky woman that she made the right decision to spend February 14 by your side.

Whether you’re in the very beginning talking stage, the first few dates or it’s already been several years, nobody is forcing her to be there, so make her feel like she’s one-of-a-kind.

1. Plan and Prepare

Plan ahead and do not improvise. This refers to the location and appearances — make sure you look impeccable. If you’re meeting at your place, do more than the usual — spell out her name with rose petals and create arrows that point to a glass of wine.

2. Notice her

She just spent at least an hour getting ready. Most likely, she knew what to wear a couple of days in advance or went shopping for the occasion. Pay attention carefully to her hair, her nails, her outfit and accessories. Tell her how breathtaking she looks.

3. Dance

This is a must whether you are a great dancer or have two left feet. Try to go for something different, like meringue, salsa, tango or even some regular dancing at a nice local bar to break it down.

Show her you are one of those fun guys who isn’t concerned about what others think. If not, figure out her favorite song, have it ready on your iPhone, stop her and slow dance somewhere unexpected. I can guarantee nobody has done that for her previously.

4. Listen

Open your ears and retain the words. It does not matter if she wants to talk about changing the world or can’t wait to see Juan Pablo give out a rose next Monday night on “The Bachelor.” She will feel more comfortable once you give her undivided attention.

Remember the conversations and revisit the topic on your next date. Find out more about her, but do not make it an interview. Go for statements instead of questions every now and then. Let her speak.

5. Embrace

Luckily, the cold weather is in your favor. Human beings crave contact, but do not be a creep. Let the night determine your approach. If you are literally lighting up the restaurant with sparks, go ahead and kiss her. If the mood isn’t there yet, hold her hand, spin her and make her laugh first.

6. More Than One

Your date should have more than one activity. Don’t stick to “just dinner” and please skip the movies. Get to know her in more than one location; whether it’s a long walk, going to a different venue for dessert, a picnic or painting while drinking, keep it moving to give her another reason to spend more time with you.

But keep the multiple locations surprises.

7. Eye Contact

Keep your eye contact on her. Yes, there will be dozens of gorgeous women all around looking glamorous — but they aren’t your dates, so don’t worry about them. Devote yourself to the woman in front of you. Make her smile. Actually, making her smile should not be enough; make her cheeks hurt from happiness.

8. A Gift

Make sure you surpass her expectations for the night. Whether it’s flowers, chocolates, a teddy bear or jewelry, a gift shows consideration and spontaneity. Don’t go for anything fancy, but make sure you offer something she’ll remember. Besides, it’ll help you stand out from the crowd.

9. Call, Don’t Text

You are a grown man, so act like it. Call her to let her know you are close or that you are outside waiting. If you’re picking her up, get out of the car to open the door.

If you don’t drop her off or end up on the subway going separate ways, ask her to text you when she gets home safely. Distinguish yourself from the rest and give her special attention; she is the lady you are taking out, not a buddy who needs a quick game update. Call — she will certainly appreciate it.

10. Little Things

Yes, the little things! Realistically, most of us won’t be able to take a lady on a helicopter ride to pop Dom Perignon, so stick to the little things.

Be attentive and take advantage of the signs. If she bites her tongue when she is nervous, let her know how adorable you think it is. Kiss the back of her hand, hold her hand while driving, spin her while dancing, hold her tight, give her warmth, move her hair behind her ears and whisper how lucky you feel.

11. Pay

You are paying and that’s it. If she is one of those girls that wants to split it, that is cool, just tell her maybe next time. You do not want to be known as the guy who split the check on Valentine’s Day.

12. Close

I hate using this terminology, but you need to close. However you decide to define this is up to you. Kiss her — she wants to feel desired, and don’t ask, just go for it. Do it when she is not expecting it — do not get nervous, but be respectful.

13. Thank Her

This gorgeous lady could have accepted another invitation or could have been drinking with her girlfriends. Thank her for her time, for her company, for dressing up, for allowing you to get to know her better, and thank her for what she is worth.

14. Focus, Don’t Rush

Do not rush nor ruin this great night by trying to get lucky immediately. If that is what you want, and it happens, perfect. If not, do not worry at all. Give her time to get comfortable, be sincere and don’t pressure her.

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