Top 3 Dating Tips from It's Just Lunch Matchmakers

Okay, you've got a date. Great! You mustered up the courage to suggest an outing and got a "yes."  Feeling good?

It's perfectly normal to be nervous about looking good, anticipating conversation topics and wondering about post-date etiquette. What if it doesn't go well? What if it does?

Hold on. The truth of it is - dating is way more simple than all that. In fact, dating is about getting to know someone better. You're only goal is to discover whether you want to see them again. That's it.

There are thousands of blogs, articles and websites dedicated to the rules of dating. When it comes down to it, there are three things to keep in mind on your first date with that special someone:

1) Be on Time!
You know what it feels like to wait in a doctor's office. The nerves, tension and anxiety. Imagine adding the fact that maybe the man in the white coat has stood you up and no one is going to call your name. It feels like that. First dates are stressful enough as it is. Make a point to show up on time. If you are delayed, let your date know at the earliest convenience so she/he can adjust their schedule to avoid the "sit and wait" scenario.

2) Dress as You Would an Interview
The goal of an interview is to get on the short list of hire potentials. Dating is like that. You want to present your best foot forward for two reasons. The first is that a presentation of our best selves will leave a good impression on our date. The second is that by looking your best, you will feel your best. If you feel empowered and confident, that will be transferred to your date.

3) 50/50 Rule of Conversation
Spend some time talking, but equally important…. Spend some time listening! Engage in the conversation- ask questions and follow-ups. Be prepared to answer questions with more than just a yes or no.

That's it. The rest of it is enjoying yourself, learning about the other person and seeing where the connection will take you.

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What Are You Dressing As? Approachable Vs Sexy Costumes

From lavish costumes to the electric vibe of the evening, it is easier than normal to approach that special someone on Halloween.

Turns out that while men and women are more attracted to singles in sexy costumes (no surprise, there), they feel that potential matches in funny costumes are much easier to approach. The disparity between attraction and approachable comes down to something I like to call the "in."

The "in" is the tiny token that someone can use to break the ice, further conversation and take a chance at winning you over. It's more than noticing how hot the man dressed in navy uniform looks. It's more about being able to notice something and use that as the launch pad to engage you in conversation.

An "in" doesn't have to be extreme. It's just a way to take your costume to the next level to encourage the approach of interested suitors. Think of Little Red Riding Hood's basket. If Little Red handed out candy to people as a way of starting a conversation,it would also double as an "in" for anyone seeking to talk with her.

The key here is to tone down the sex appeal while giving your outfit a bit more "umph" in the approachable area. What can you do to add a bit more interaction to your costume?

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Dating Post Break-Up: Have Your Story & Make It Short

It's been a long road but you're finally ready to take on the singles' scene after a divorce and the termination of a long-term relationship.

When it comes to discussing your marriage and former spouse, less is more. No matter the circumstances surrounding your divorce, talking about it will only paint you in a bad light. If your ex left you, anything you share could be misconstrued as an unwillingness to let go of your marriage. Conversely, if you instigated the divorce, discussing your departure may make you appear callous. Either way, your date will likely see red flags waving.

The key here is to focus on connecting with your date and letting them get to know you rather than feeling you need to explain your status or setting the record straight on your first marriage.

However, if your date prods you with repeated questions about your marriage, respond vaguely and concisely à la, "We married too young and grew apart" or "Our lives just started moving in different directions." Then change the topic immediately. To divert additional questioning, politely add, "Thanks for your interest, but I'd much rather spend our time getting to know you."

If you continue to see each other, further discussion about past relationships will likely ensue but initially, daters should concentrate on their potential future together as opposed to excavating their pasts.

Place your past firmly behind you by stepping away from your old life and moving enthusiastically toward your new one!

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