Got a hot date this weekend?  Our first ever guest blogger and local dating wizard the lovely Annie Boyd has her top tips for a successful first date

Hi, I’m Annie and I’m here to share my dating wisdom with you. What qualifies me for this role? Well, I run The Beluga Club, Scotland’s online dating and events company. I’ve also had at least my fair share of dates and understand the excitement, nerves and disappointment that can go with them.

There’s the good dates where you laugh your head off, manage not to get any food stuck in your teeth and the chemistry is sizzling from the moment you meet.

And then there are the bad ones where your date talks with their mouth full, doesn’t let you get a word in, is rude to the waiter, or keeps trying to put the lips on you when your body language is screaming ‘no way!’

Then there’s the blind dates where you meet online or your friend has set you up. These are possibly the most exciting and nerve-wracking of all dates and I regularly get asked for advice.

Here are my top tips for first dining dates

Book a table – ask your date what kind of food they like (or really don’t like) and make a reservation. This is Scotland after all and walking in the rain for ages trying to find a restaurant is not a good start

Choose somewhere that allows you to talk without shouting over the music.  Earsplitting pumping techno does not always go hand in hand with good dinner conversation.

Dress to impress – but be comfortable. If your new shoes are crippling you or your shirt is a bit tight you won’t be able to relax

Don’t drink too much – let’s face it, being blind drunk on a first date is just not sexy

Have a believeable exit story – hopefully you’ll have a great time on your date, but if it’s not going to plan don’t fake an emergency phone call!  Make a polite and believeable excuse for why you have to head home early

Follow these simple guidelines and then all you need to focus on is having a good time.   And if you’re stuck for venue ideas my personal recommendations for first dates are:

If you’re a bit nervous…

La Tasca (Glasgow & Edinburgh) – rain or shine La Tasca’s décor makes you feel like you’re on holiday. The orange walls and comfy cushions help make this is an informal and relaxing environment. If you’re a bit nervous tapas is brilliant for a first date because sharing food is a great icebreaker and the staff here are so friendly. Importantly they are never in any hurry to get your table back so you can chill and get to know each other.

If you’re  a romantic…

Amarone (Glasgow) – This Italian restaurant is very romantic, with its low lighting and dark wood it’s comfortable and inviting.  If your date loves Italian food then this is a definite winner. I’d suggest leaving the spaghetti bolognaise until the 2nd date though!

_If you’re looking for somewhere relaxed but still stylish…_

Gusto (Edinburgh) – This stylish restaurant caters to all tastes and budgets. It’s got great cosy booths, which are perfect for an intimate chat, and an extensive menu (the desserts to die for) so you’re sure to impress. There’s a broad cocktail and wine list too and the service is excellent and understated.

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If you’re reading this and wishing you had a date then it’s your lucky day! You’d be welcome to join us at our next event on 21st August 09 at Corinthian or take advantage of 5pm’s great membership offer to our club.

Hope to see you soon,

Annie