How Much is Acceptable to Drink on the First Date?

Comedian Rodney Dangerfield once joked, “I drink too much. The last time I gave a urine sample, it had an olive in it.” Sure, most of us like our cocktails. In fact, I’m drinking a dirty martini as I write this post. But I’m in the comfort of my own home, and I’m not trying to impress any future baby makers. So ladies, how much drinking is acceptable on the first date? Well, let’s look at a few different factors.

Depending on your tolerance, which can vary greatly from woman to woman, I believe between one and three drinks is acceptable on a first date. If you rarely drink or you’re just super petite, go with one drink and sip at it on a full stomach. If you’re a beer pong champion who weighs 200 pounds, then I guess a few lagers with your prime rib won’t do much harm. If you’re a moderate social drinker, have a glass of wine and feel it out if you should opt for number two.

So say you’ve hit your drinking quota and said super hunk wants to continue with an after-dinner date at a pool hall or bowling alley? Don’t wuss out and go home. Just keep in mind that you don’t have to be doing Irish car bombs to stay in the conversation. Alcohol impairs our judgment — that’s why it’s best to make a pre-date alcohol rule with yourself and try your best to stick to it. Maybe even have a friend scheduled to call you with a “You don’t want to be that girl” pep talk.

Nobody likes a sloppy, slushy drunk girl on a first date. Falling down and having your dress fly over your head is pretty unattractive, even if said super hunk is really pushing the kamikaze shots or lemon drops. But don’t be so freaked out that you become a prude. Find a happy medium that works for you and your alcohol consumption comfort level, and do your best to stick to it. Slainte!