Does double dating mean double the fun or double the trouble? If you do it right…it can be a lot of fun. Here are some tips.

Dating With A Second Couple

• Everyone Gets Along

You shouldn’t go on a double date with a couple you or your partner can’t stand. But what if your boyfriend can’t stand your best friend’s boyfriend but you still want to go out with them? Hmm…either ask your boyfriend to be civil or may be invite another couple along to act as the buffer.

• Suitable Game Plan

Whatever you plan to do on the date, make sure it suits everyone. So if its dinner, make sure you pick a restaurant everyone can enjoy. Or if you’re heading to the movies, consider whether the other couple would like your choice of action flick or can the four of you find common ground with the latest dance movie.

• The Budget

It’s okay to discuss how much you plan on spending before you go on the date, so neither of you end up spending too much. Also, knowing the budget can also help you decide a location that won’t burn a hole in your pockets. It’s always good to pick a spot both couples can afford.

• The Personal Touch

It’s a good idea not to reveal too many personal details on a date. You might know many intimate details of your best friend’s love life, but your best friend’s other half might not like it that you know so much; so don’t bring it up. Also, don’t give your friend’s secrets to their date – you wouldn’t like it if they did it to you. Personal details aren’t a good idea for conversation topics.

• Couple Signals

Develop some signals with your date so you can communicate during the date without exchanging dirty looks and obvious glances at the door. So scratching your head could translate to “Lets wrap this up” and drumming your fingers on the table could mean “Change the topic. Now!”

• Ditch the PDA

It’s embarrassing for the other couple if you and your partner decide to get all touchy-feely on a double date so don’t do it. If the other couple does, its perfectly fine to walk over to the bar and come back when they’re drunk or you could just drop some obvious hints that you don’t like it.

• Don’t Fight

Yes please, don’t. Can’t you save the drama of a fight until after a date? It’s embarrassing for another couple to watch you two fight and ultimately (and hopefully) embarrassing for you too. So don’t fight on a date or don’t make unpleasant remarks about your partner. It’s a date, you’re meant to have fun.

Double dates are great ways not only to make couple friends, but also to get to know your friend’s dates, your date’s friends, your colleagues other halves etc. So go out and have some fun!