You had a great first date and now the night comes to an end. Of course you want to leave on a high note. So how do you end this first date?
Should you wave, shake their hand, hug, or even kiss?
Of course this depends on the vibe you’re feeling and how the date went, but this blog will give you 7 tips on how to end a first date well.
Just to be clear: you shouldn’t follow these tips to the letter, but rather have them in mind and adapt them as the date comes to an end.
So are you ready to learn how to end a first date?
Then let’s get started!
1. Read the Vibe Before Deciding How to End the First Date
Most importantly, you need to read the vibe of the date. Did you hit it off great or were you having trouble connecting? Did you laugh or was the conversion rather dry and boring?
If you both had a great time, being more affectionate could be the way to go. A hug or even a kiss might work well.
If the date wasn’t that good, a simple “goodbye” might be appropriate.
Again, you need to gauge the mood before deciding the
2. Keep It Simple and be Honest
You don’t need to make this part harder than it already is. Keep it simple and be honest.
Don’t overthink it - that’s the key.
If you had a great time and want to see them again, tell them. I know this can be hard but honestly, what do you have to lose? Just tell them how you feel.
On the other hand, if you don’t want to go on a second date with them, tell them. A simple “It was great to meet you” can go a long way.
You see, ending a first date doesn’t have to be complicated or hard. Just keep it simple and be honest.
3. Body Language
Understanding how to end a first date is all about reading cues, and body language is a huge part of that.
Pay attention to how your date reacts as you’re walking towards the goodbye moment. Are they leaning in closer, keeping eye contact?
Those are signs that your date enjoyed your company. You could hug her or him or even lean in for a kiss. Also, you could plan the second date right away.
However, if they seem to be distant then leaning in for a kiss wouldn’t be the best option. Remember, it’s totally normal and okay that a first date doesn't lead to a second one.
4. The Hug, Kiss, or Wave Debate
This is where it can get a little nerve-wracking: deciding whether to hug, kiss, or just wave.
Remember the points we already discussed: how is the vibe? What about body language?
If you want to play it safe, a hug is perfect. It can be used for dates that went good and for dates that went okay.
But if you actually felt a great connection, why not lean it for a kiss?
And honestly, there’s nothing wrong with a friendly wave if you're just not feeling it. Don’t let the pressure of “the perfect ending” stress you out.
The key is to be comfortable and respectful.
5. Offer to Walk Them to Their Car or Ride
So the date comes to an end and you don’t know what to do. Then offer to walk them to their car or ride.
It shows that you care about their safety and leaves a positive lasting impression. As you walk them, you get some time to look at the body language of your date and to do some light-hearted conversation.
Also, tell them how you feel. Do you want to see them again? Tell them. Did you have a great time? Tell them
6. Avoid the Pressure of Making Plans Right Away
Don’t worry, you don’t need to plan the second date right on the spot. This avoids the pressure and you can arrange a second date late on over text.
For ending a first date, just be in the moment. Future plans can wait.
And I’ll say it again: be honest. Tell them how you feel, if you enjoyed the night and if you want to see them again.
7. Send a Follow-Up Text Later
What comes after the “goodbye”? Do you text them right away, 1 hour later or the next day?
Again, it depends on how the date went and what feeling you got.
Don’t overthink it - be you and text them that you want to see them again (if you do).
Conclusion: It’s All About Feeling Comfortable
Learning how to end a first date is a mix of reading the situation, being honest, and not putting too much pressure on yourself.
No matter what, try to stay true to what feels comfortable for you and the other person. Whether it’s a kiss, a hug, or a simple smile and goodbye, the key is to leave things on a positive note.
Ending the first date with good vibes leaves you both feeling respected and makes it much easier to reach out for a second date if you’re interested.
So, the next time you're wondering how to end a first date, just remember: honesty, respect, and comfort are your best tools.
And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the experience - after all, that’s what dating is all about!
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