Dating Tips for the Holidays

The holidays are a great time of the year to date. It's easier to meet friends of friends at parties, dinners, and holiday gatherings - which means more opportunities to expand your social network, or to meet someone special.

So what happens if you're at a party and you hit it off with someone new? It's time to make the best possible impression - and there are definitely ways to take advantage of the season. Following are a few tips for making your holiday dating a success - and possibly ring in the New Year with a new love!

Try something new. Instead of the tried-and-true dinner and drinks scenario, opt for more creative options for dates during the holidays. Try ice skating, a carriage ride downtown, a drive down that street where every house has elaborate Christmas lights, or even watching a marathon of holiday movies together. The holiday spirit can be contagious when mixed with a little attraction.

Don't get the family involved. While you might be tempted to invite your new love interest over for Christmas dinner with the family, don't do it. It's best to take things slow and leave the family out of it for the time being - why create added stress? Plan to meet him on your own for a drink or movie afterwards instead!

Curb the holiday spirits. It's easy to get carried away at parties with a few extra cocktails, especially when you're nervous and standing next to someone you're really attracted to. But don't overdo the wine and champagne so you can "loosen up." Pace yourself so you don't do something you'll regret later. Besides, your date will enjoy you more when you can hold a conversation.

No gifting for new relationships. If you've just started dating, there's no reason either of you should expect a gift for the holidays. It puts added pressure on a new romance and it also implies you might be more serious than you are. Leave gifts for later on in the relationship. Just enjoy getting to know each other right now.

Enjoy the season. Accept all of those party invitations and be sure to socialize instead of standing next to the bar waiting for someone interesting to talk to. Parties are much more fun when you make an effort to get to know people, and you may find you click with someone unexpectedly. Take some chances - introduce yourself and try a little flirting. It could lead to your next holiday date.

Happy holidays!