How much touch belongs on a date

There is no universal amount of touch that makes a date successful. Some people want a hug hello. Some want to sit across a table and talk. The right amount is the one you both welcome.

Start where they start. If they step back, stay there and keep the conversation going. If the hour has been easy and you want to move closer, ask. Can I sit nearer? Would you like a hug goodbye? A yes is a pleasure. A no is a complete answer.

Keep the first meeting public so either of you can leave. Join free and write to someone whose pace you are willing to learn.

What should you do with your hands?

Start with the table between you. A drink, a menu, and a question you actually wait to hear are enough for the first half hour. If you want to move closer, name it. Ask whether you can sit on the same side, or whether a hug at the door would be welcome. The answer can be a nod, a joke, or a plain no, and a no ends that idea for the evening.

Watch the small things rather than a chart of poses. If they lean in to hear you over the room, that is attention. If they tuck their hands under the table and talk about the bus home, stay where you are and keep the conversation going. A goodbye at a busy stop is a complete date. You can write first on We Love Dates, and a plan is what opens their reply.