I’m THRILLED to be partnering with the fabulous ladies behind the brand new book, Should I Scoop Out My Bagel? (and 99 other answers to your everyday diet and nutrition questions to help you lose weight, feel great, and live healthy). Ilyse Schapiro and Hallie Rich have dug deep into the most commonly asked questions when it comes to losing weight and healthy living, such as I have salads for lunch everyday, but I’m still not losing weight. What am I doing wrong? and I’m tired of feeling tired. What can I do to lose the urge to snooze? The book has been described as ‘Dear Abby’ meets ‘Sex and the City’ meets ‘Dr. Oz’ (which is funny because Oops! has been described as a ‘Sex and the City’ meets ‘He’s Just Not That Into You’).
While Should I Scoop Out My Bagel? and Oops! are, of course, very different, they both approach topics in a very real, raw, authentic, no bullshit way, and THAT is what makes them similar.
And, today, Ilyse, Hallie, and I have teamed up to bring you a post that answers a couple VERY common questions, all pertaining to the first date.
So, whether you’re single or not, enjoy our no BS take on a couple of the most important parts of the infamous first date (AND be sure to enter our giveaway at the bottom – one lucky person will receive a signed copy of BOTH books!)
First dates can be TOUGH. From figuring out what to wear (whatever makes you feel the best!), how to act (like yourself!), what to eat, what not to do, and everything in between, it’s not always easy breezy, ladies, so we’re here to break it down for you.
In terms of what to wear, let’s first discuss where you are going on said date. If it’s a sporting event, an activity, or out to a casual restaurant/bar, you can never go wrong with jeans, blouse, booties, and leather jacket or blazer. If it’s something a bit nicer, say a more formal restaurant or a cocktail party of sorts, opt for a dress or skirt and blouse or even nice pants, top, and heels. And, of course, add those accessories! Ultimately, you want to feel GOOD in what you wear. You want to be comfortable (not fidgety, fixing straps, pulling up the blouse, and so on) and let your confidence do all the talking.
It can be tricky to figure out how to still eat healthy while out on a date, without being ‘judged’ for your order. There are a few simple tricks of the trade to follow so that you have enough food to be full without ruining your awesome figure and fueling your body with energy for some fun activities after your meal
– As an alternative to ordering salad with dressing on the side or a soup that you have to slurp, try ordering shrimp cocktail, tomato and mozzarella, tuna tartar, or chicken skewers. These all are good sources of protein and they will help sustain you so you don’t overeat throughout the meal.
– Offer to share. It’s always fun to find foods you both like and nothing is healthier than portion control. So whether it’s the first course, main meal or dessert, look for things the two of you enjoy and can split (cue Lady and The Tramp moment).
– At Italian restaurants, pick pastas with a marinara sauce and try to include veggies and/or protein in it. If you tend to eat your whole bowl of pasta, try ordering a hard to eat noodle (like spaghetti). It will take you a little bit longer to eat and your brain more time to realize it’s satisfied, which will also give you two more time to get to know each other. If chicken or meat dishes are your preference, avoid those that are fried, breaded or have heavy sauces/cheeses.
– If you’re at an Asian restaurant and you’re not good with chopsticks, order edamame (which you can use your hands) and a teriyaki dish (where it’s totally acceptable to ask for a fork and knife). These options can actually be healthier than a bunch of sushi rolls that are often high in calories, sugar and sodium.
– Save corn on the cob, spinach, broccoli or any other foods that tend to get stuck in your teeth for another night. There’s nothing worse than having something in your teeth and your date has to tell you. Other sides to consider would be a baked potato, string beans, or roasted/grilled eggplant or zucchini.
– If alcohol is involved, go with a glass of wine or a mixed drink with one mixer or using lemon or lime for flavor. Remember the stiffer the alcohol the higher calorie content, so watch how many your order (which will also help you remember the night). Try not to get a dessert cocktail (mudslide, chocolate martini or grasshopper) as those are a full of empty calories. If you want something sweet, you would be better off sharing a dessert instead.
In terms of how to act, DON’T overthink it. You were asked on this date because this person showed interest in you and likes YOU. Just be yourself and act natural. It will be very clear to the person sitting across the table if you’re acting like anything but yourself. BE YOU.
And some DON’TS:
-Don’t bring up your ex
-Don’t talk about the future (hello, this is date #1)
-Don’t tell them you stalked them on Facebook and Google (even if you did, keep that one to yourself)
-Don’t drink too much and act like a fool. It’s pretty much the easiest way to ensure you won’t be asked on a second date.
-Don’t be rude to the waiters and waitresses; being rude is NEVER attractive.
-Don’t go home together on the first date. Let’s leave some mystery out there, shall we?
First dates should be FUN. It’s the most exciting time in a relationship, the ‘butterfly stage.’ Enjoy it and good luck!
xo, Hallie, Ilyse, and Julie
And now…the GIVEAWAY!
We are thrilled to give away a signed copy of each of our books (Should I Scoop Out My Bagel? and Oops!) to one lucky person. All you have to do to enter is make sure you’re following Hallie and Ilyse and Julie on Instagram, LIKE the above photo on Instagram, and for extra entries, tag friends in the comments on Instagram and/or follow/tag friends on Facebook (Hallie and Ilyse and Julie) who you think might enjoy these books! Winner will be announced Sunday night. Giveaway only open to US residents at this time. Good luck!