A dating journal for the curious, FirstDate is a resource for those in pursuit of extraordinary connections. Because first dates should be easy. And fun.

Woman pursuing intentional dating

All, Dating

Bare Minimum? Barely Interested.

Modern daters are done with uncertainty. They’re over the guessing games. What they want now is intention. Something that feels deliberate, not default … Read On

Unpaid dinner check

All, Dating

Should You Split the Bill?

In modern dating, the bill isn’t just paper. It’s a Rorschach test. And your reaction to it says more about your choices than your Instagram bio ever could … Read On

Woman in lime-green jacket

All, Dating

Dating a High Achiever

It’s easy to get dazzled by someone who seems to sprint through life. That intensity can be thrilling, but not everyone moves at the same emotional speed … Read On

Couple on a blanket in the park

All, Dating

Making Magic Happen

The best first dates don’t just unfold—they seem designed to resonate. Not with forced charm or overt displays, but with emotional transparency and purpose … Read On

Couple in a field of lavender

All, Dating

Tell Me

What’s the one question you should ask on a first date? It’s not “What do you do?” or “Where do you see yourself in five years?” It’s more revealing. … Read On

Smiling couple texting each other

All, Dating

Textual Chemistry

You matched, swiped, flirted. Three dots flash, then vanish, then reappear… Here’s why text compatibility is just as important as physical attraction … Read On

Woman drinking coffee

All, Dating

Benched! What Now?

You’re seeing someone. Not exclusively, not seriously, but consistently. You’re not moving forward, but you’re not ending it. You might be benching them … Read On

Couple hugging, but on their phones

All, Dating

The Playtionship

The Playtionship – modern dating’s ambiguous middle ground between “just hanging out” and “definitely exclusive.” It’s exciting, confusing, and relatable … Read On

Couple holding hands in field

All, Dating

The Subtle Science

A first date can feel like you’re in a poker game—you’re both playing it cool, but signals are flying. The key to winning? Learning to read body language. … Read On

ABOUT

FirstDate stands out from other dating journals by focusing on journeys of self-discovery and reflection rather than merely recording dates. It encourages users to engage with their experiences, fostering a unique blend of introspection and curiosity about their romantic lives. 

Exploring the myriad wonders—and potential pitfalls—of the initial dating encounter including social activities, travel, culture, and other interesting topics, FirstDate celebrates successful connections and quality of life. FirstDate is a leading dating lifestyle authority with a dynamic mix of content and connects a global community of professionals from New York to New Delhi.

JOURNAL

Editor: Henrik J. Klijn

Art Direction: Julianna Lacoste

Art Direction: Susie Ramirez

Content Manager: Brett W. Campbell

CATEGORIES

NEW JOURNALS ON FOOD

All, Food – Travel

See and Be Seen

From Mexico City to Cape Town, these top-tier restaurants deliver unforgettable vibes, impeccable menus, and an air of exclusivity for a first date … Read On

Couple having dinner

All, Food – Local, Places

How to Order a Cocktail Without Sounding Basic

A thoughtfully chosen cocktail on your first date isn’t just an order; it’s a declaration. It says you’re willing to engage and open to shared discoveries … Read On

Couple drinking cocktails on a first date

All, Food – Local, Places

Dream On: Dinner Date Puerto Vallarta

Forget run-of-the-mill tacos and margaritas—we’re embarking on a gastronomic journey into the crème de la crème of the local Puerto Vallarta dating scene … Read On

Couple Dining Overlooking the Ocean

All, Dating, Food – Local

The Guerrilla Picnic Invasion

For first dates, a fine line exists between the memorable and the mundane. The guerrilla picnic is the perfect compromise of creativity and spontaneity … Read On

Picnic Spread on the Grass