15 First Date Mistakes You're Probably Making Gallery

First dates are exciting because they open a world of possibility. This person that you maybe swiped right on, saw around the office, or even met in the deli aisle has the potential to be the love of your life. You want to present your best self to this person. You want to pick the best restaurant or bar, look great, smell great, and have engaging conversation. But you might be making a ton of mistakes on your road to discovering if they are "the one" — or even a "one."

That tasty-sounding garlic pasta you were thinking of ordering might make your date recoil from your breath. But if you're already bathed in cologne, they might be recoiling from the smell anyway. If you've forgotten their name or what they do for a living, you might want to consider actually listening to what they have to say. However, don't worry about it if you've spent the past 10 minutes checking your phone. They already know you don't care. You really should stop mentioning your ex, how much money you make, or the fact that you just had a colonoscopy — it's ruining your date.

Many of the little things you may not realize you're doing can be deal breakers to the other person and can scare them away from your potential lifetime of happiness. Before you go on your next date, make sure to avoid these 15 first date mistakes you're probably making.

Checking your phone while you're on a date signals disinterest. Put your phone away in your pocket or purse. If it's an emergency and you must have it out, let your date know — although you really shouldn't even be on a date if something that pressing is going on.

While it may seem impressive to take your date somewhere fancy, you can totally ball on a budget. Many chain restaurants have excellent happy hours. There's no need to take them to one of the most expensive restaurants in your state!

If you do plan on taking your date out for dinner or drinks somewhere incredibly popular or fancy, you should definitely make a reservation. Without one, you and your date might be waiting a long time for a table.

Think twice before ordering that double garlic hummus spread or onion and anchovy pizza. People in close proximity to you (for instance, your date) might not appreciate the smell — especially when you're leaning in for a goodnight kiss.

No one wants to have to shout "What??" every other sentence. Pick a spot where your date can actually hear you.

It's fine to mention a previous relationship, but talking too much about your ex can signal to your date that you're not over them or that there is some sort of unresolved history there. Either sort out your feelings or don't go on the date!

It's weird and off-putting to call someone you swiped right on or have seen around the office a handful of times a term of endearment. Don't call them "babe," "baby," "honey," "sweetie," or anything but their name. It's the first date!