The first few dates often set the scene for the (possible) relationship to follow. Though you can't solely rely on them for a great relationship and experience. They do contribute to how much you connect with the person, the fun you have, and what you think about long after the date ends. Here are things you should aim to include if you want to make those first few dates stand out and shine.

Equal Parts Activity and Talking

Have you ever been on the 'Movie' cursed first date? The kind where you drive to the movie together, watch the movie and then go home. Where you finish the date even more confused than when you started. If you are anything like me it leaves you confused. Did you actually connect? Did you learn anything meaningful about them? Did you get any hints at what they feel about you?

On the other hand, have you gone on a dinner date where you stare across a pile of spaghetti at each other and don't know how long to look them in the eyes? Or where you find yourself searching for things to talk about? Dates that I have been on that resemble things like that often leave me feeling so-so about the person, and, once again, confused.

If either of these things has happened to you, have no fear! These feelings happen when for those first few, crucial dates there isn't balance. It's hard to carry a strong conversation when you don't have any shared experiences to build on or when you don't have the chance to actually hold a conversation at all. There is often the idea that if we don't match up from moment one with a never-ending conversation, they aren't worth the effort of figuring out if there is something more.

FALSE! Think about one of your best friends, who you can talk forever and ever with. I bet if you were meeting them for the first time tomorrow, had no idea what they were like, how they thought, or what to talk about it would be hard to carry a good conversation over a two hour dinner without walking away kind of exhausted. It happens on dates even when in fact they might be great potential partners!

In conclusion for this part of the recipe, find activities that balance the two parts to give you the best chance to get to know this special someone without suffocating the conversation. Some examples would be a painting or cooking class, mini golf with a picnic, a comedy show with a late-night snack afterward, or even a canoe trip down the river. Start brainstorming.

Something New

To make the night memorable, the ideal situation includes something unique. This helps make the night less of one date of many and more into an experience. When making something novel you don't have to go overboard and make every aspect of the date different. It can be one small part. For example, maybe the playlist you listen to on the way to where you are going is super incredible and includes songs both of you haven't really heard before. Or maybe you order something neither of you has tried before for dessert. You could go someplace new, do an untraditional first date, or randomly get a flat tire that turns into a great story. Get out there and do something different!

Good Food

The last ingredient in this very simple, three-part recipe is good food. Food is a large aspect of social experiences. It often unties, surprises, entertains, and bonds people. It's magical! Now, this doesn't mean you have to have a food date, but it does mean that it isn't a bad idea to incorporate some tasty food into some part. For example, if you go hiking, bring some delicious trail mix or a fresh apple. If you are going out to dinner find a restaurant that is highly rated to ensure good quality. Buy ice cream, grill out, or munch on popcorn. It's simple math; good food equals a great time.

There you go, you now know the secrets! Wield these three aspects with power and get ready for some amazing first few dates! But, the most important part of any date, is being your authentic self. Good luck!