Have you got an upcoming date? Dates can be and are a nerve-wracking experience for many of us, no matter how many we've been on in the past and no matter what age we were when we started our dating lives. It's natural to want to impress the other person with both your looks and personality.

To avoid date night stress and resulting clumsiness or awkwardness, there are a few things you can do to prepare for date night and calm yourself down.

Out and About

If you do have the time to venture outdoors before your date, treat yourself to a day of pampering and treats.

Start the morning with a visit to your favourite beauty salon for an indulgent treatment such as a body wrap or a massage. A simple manicure can also do the trick. Better still if you can bring a friend along so you can catch up on some gossip while you're at it.

Splurge on a lovely lunch or afternoon tea with your closest friends, a la Sex and the City style. Don't go overboard with the food though as you don't want to be bloated for date night. Choose something light like salad or soup and a non-alcoholic beverage.

If possible, steer clear of the date topic as this often brings up embarrassing date stories that could get you feeling really nervous for the night ahead.

Chances are you've already selected your outfit for the night. Buying one at the last minute isn't recommended anyway, however, why not invest in some new accessories? Pop into your nearest jewellery store to pick out some goodies to match your outfit.

At Home

Don't have the time to be out and about during the day? Or do you simply prefer being on your own before an evening spent in the company of a potential suitor? Stay at home and treat yourself to a spot of pampering on the spot. Alternatively, prepare yourself on the eve of your upcoming date night.

Get some music on the go which is sure to make you feel good and at ease. From cheery pop music to intense classical music, anything can do the trick. Then pour yourself a glass of your favourite beverage and treat yourself to a sweet treat or savoury snack. Mind it's not something with a strong smell, however, as a peck on the cheek and potentially more is bound to be on the cards that evening.

If you do have a bath and have the time to bathe, do so. Lie back in candle light as this has an intensely soothing effect. Soak, cleanse and moisturise your skin with essential oils, an exfoliating scrub and luxurious body butter. Make sure you have all these beauty products to hand!

Apply your makeup and outfit while rocking out to your choice of tunes. Spray perfume in the air and walk through the mist. This is the best way to apply perfume evenly.

As a finishing touch, don't forget to brush your teeth and renew that layer of lipstick or gloss. Now blow yourself a kiss in the mirror. Feeling relaxed and fabulous? You're good to go!