Preparing for that first date is one of the most stressful things a man or woman can do. There are a lot of things you want to remember. Below, you will find a list of the most common things that need to be accounted for when you are preparing for your date.

1: Shower before your date.

Neither men or women appreciate the smell of sweat, unless your date happens to be at a sport's event. Take a shower before your date, wash your hair, and make certain that you use deodorant.

2: Style your Hair.

Brushing your hair can go a long way to making yourself look as presentable as possible. If your hair is looking more like a rat's nest than styled, see a stylist before your date. A few dollars of investment can ensure you make the best impression possible. If you have a beard, your beard should be neatly trimmed.

3: Wear clean clothes.

Wear clean clothes well suited to your planned activity. If you are going to a high end restaurant, make certain your suit has been dry cleaned and pressed so that you look as sharp as possible. Ladies, pick a dress or skirt that you are comfortable in.

4: Beware the shoes!

For both men and women, wearing a pair of good, comfortable shoes can make a huge impression on your first date. If your feet hurt, you will not enjoy yourself as much. Wear shoes you are not afraid to walk in. Many dates involve unexpected strolls.

5: Brush your teeth.

Bad breath and dirty teeth are a major turn-off for many people. Dental hygiene is important on your date. Your date will notice your teeth, whether or not you want them to. If you have yellowed teeth, use teeth whitener several days before your date to improve the appearance of your teeth.

6: Don't drink before your date.

With the bar hopping scene quickly fading as the optimal dating locale, drinking while on a date usually does not go over well. If you are going to drink, limit yourself. A good date can be completely ruined through the use of alcohol.

7: Smoking.

If you are a smoker and your date is not, respect your date's wishes. Ask if they mind if you smoke near them before you light up. If your date does not like smoking, offer to smoke away from them. On the first date, you never know if your partner may suffer from asthma or other smoking related problems. If you are uncertain, it is best to avoid smoking for at least an hour prior to your date so you do not smell of fresh cigarettes.