Do wear something you’re comfortable in. Ol’ Willy nailed it on the head when he wrote, “to thine own self be true…” which applies doubly for blind dates. Not the suit and tie type? Don’t agree to meet your date at a fancy restaurant that will require you to wear them. Are you a natural beauty? Don’t pile on the makeup and perfume in a misguided attempt to impress. Your date wants to get to know you, not the image you’re trying to project. Besides, how can you possibly enjoy yourself when you’re worrying about your appearance instead of what your date has to say?

Don’t talk about your past relationships. Nothing kills a blind date faster than the mention of an ex. No one wants to autopsy your failed relationships with you over coffee or listen to your list of grievances against your former partners. First dates are a time for new beginnings, not reliving the past, a time to focus on what’s right in front of you, not what you left behind.

Don’t share too much. Although you may feel compelled to create a sense of intimacy on the first date, don’t unload too many personal details about yourself just yet. Your date will want to know the basics about you and get a sense of who you are. This can be accomplished without you sharing the sordid details of your multiple past lives or your habits in the shower. If you’re in doubt about whether or not to share something personal, err on the safe side and don’t. After all, you have to save something for the second date.