You can't design and control the whole date, obviously, but here are some suggestions to help you through meeting any new person. And remember-even with a blind date recommended by a friend, always exercise caution.

1. Blind dates should be in a public place.

You don't know this person yet, so supply your own transportation. And if you get a funny feeling about him, (or her,) pay attention to it and excuse yourself early. We have our own built-in alarm system that tells us when something is not right so don't override it.

2. Blind dates are not good dinner dates.

Blind dates should be structured to be short. If you don't like your date, life will be easier if you planned a coffee date. If you do like each other, you can sit and keep talking. But it is difficult to chew and talk and endure a long meal when you are uncomfortable with someone.

3. Wear something comfortable on your date that you know you look good in.

A blind date has never seen you before so you don't need new clothes. Never wear anything too tight, even if you do want to deny those last few pounds you have gained. You'll feel miserable and self-conscious. Wear flattering clothes appropriate for the date that you have worn before.

4. Choose a safe activity for your first date.

Blind dates should not be planned around a dangerous activity. Unless you were both in the U.S. Special Forces, swimming with sharks, bungee jumping off a bridge, jumping out of airplanes, or alligator hunting are not a good idea. Don't feel pressured into doing anything risky. I know a guy who took his blind date out in a small boat. The boat tipped over and she got soaked in a dirty pond. It was their first and last date.

5. Do something easy and familiar.

A blind date should be a comfortable activity. Being challenged to do something you have never done before can turn into a bad date that you can't fix. One of my friends went bowling on her blind date. She considered herself a good athlete. However, what she discovered was that she was NOT a bowler. When it was her turn to throw the ball, it went in the air and landed in other people's lanes. She was mortified. And there was nothing her date could say (between his stifled laughs) that could make her feel better.

6. Think about the following before your date:

*Do not talk about your exes or you will be throwing a cold bucket of water on your time together.

*Pay attention to any nervous tics that you have been told you have. By now, you probably have developed some skills to manage any of the following: nail biting, twisting a piece of your hair, vigorously shaking your leg or foot, drumming your fingers on the table, picking at your nail polish, chewing gum, or crunching ice. Any of the above has the potential to irritate your date.

*Turn your cell phone off unless you have asked a friend to call you and check up on you. Do not talk on your cell with anyone else.

*Conversation is mutual, so be sure you let your date talk. Also, listen to what you are saying. Do not brag about your position, money, cars, things, or who you know. Trying to impress someone is the worst way to try and impress someone.

7. Do some positive visualization before your date.

Visualize yourself on your blind date. You can't "magic" your date to be someone other than who they are, but you can imagine yourself having a good time no matter who you are with. Don't go out on a blind date in a bad mood. You deserve better and so does your date.

Find your sense of humor before you go out. Think of times in the past that were really funny and be prepared to tell one of those stories. The more you smile and laugh, the more attractive you become, which makes you -an unforgettable blind date.