How to Suggest a Double Date Without Making It Awkward

The Art of the Casual Double Date Proposal

Let's face it—suggesting a double date can sometimes feel like navigating a social minefield. Will they think you're being weird? Do they even like your mate? What if they say no? But double dating can be an amazing way to keep things fun and low-pressure, especially in those early dating stages. Here's how to suggest a double date without making everyone cringe.

Why Double Dating is Worth the Ask

Before we dive into the how, let's quickly touch on why double dating is brilliant:

• Creates a more relaxed atmosphere
• Reduces those awkward first-date silences
• Gives you a confidence boost with your mate nearby
• Shows your date a different side of your personality
• Makes planning activities easier (4-player board games, anyone?)

Read the Room First

Before you suggest a double date, consider:

• How well do you know your potential date?
• Have they mentioned enjoying group activities?
• Do they seem socially confident or more reserved?
• Have you been on a one-on-one date with them before?

Sometimes a double date works best after you've already established a bit of rapport. Other times, it's perfect as a first-date ice-breaker.

The Casual Approach

The key to suggesting a double date is keeping it casual and giving them an easy out. Try these approaches:

The Activity-First Method

"My mate and I were thinking of checking out that new mini-golf place on Saturday. Would you and a friend want to join? Could be a laugh!"

This works because:

• It focuses on the activity, not the dating aspect
• It presents the double date as something already happening
• It feels more like a fun invitation than a loaded question

The Mate-Mention

"My friend Jamie has been wanting to try that new pizza place. If you've got a mate who's up for it, we could make it a foursome?"

This works because:

• It provides context for why you're suggesting a group
• It sounds spontaneous and casual
• It gives them the option to choose who they'd bring

The App-Assisted Suggest

"Have you heard of Tandem? It's this app where you can date with your mate. I'm on it with my friend Alex—maybe you and your mate could join and we could match?"

This works because:

• It introduces the concept of double dating as a normal thing
• It uses technology as a buffer
• It gives them time to think about it without pressure

The Follow-Up

If they seem hesitant, don't press the issue. You can always say:

"No worries if that's not your thing—just thought it might be fun! We can always grab a coffee just us two instead."

This gives them an easy out while still keeping the door open for a one-on-one date.

Picking the Right Mate

Not all mates make good double date partners. Choose someone who:

• Is sociable and good at keeping conversation flowing
• Won't compete with you for attention
• Understands their role as support, not main character
• Complements your personality
• Is genuinely fun to be around

Double Date Ideas That Reduce Awkwardness

Some activities naturally reduce the pressure of a double date:

• Escape rooms (working together breaks the ice)
• Bowling or mini-golf (the activity fills silence)
• Pub quiz nights (built-in conversation topics)
• Board game cafés (structured interaction)
• Food markets or festivals (walk and talk at your own pace)

When to Use Tandem Instead

If suggesting a double date in person feels too awkward, Tandem is literally built for this! With Tandem:

• The expectation is already set that you'll be dating as a pair
• The matching happens between duos, not individuals
• Everyone's on the same page about the double date format
• The group chat feature makes planning easier

Bottom Line

Suggesting a double date doesn't have to be awkward if you keep it casual, activity-focused, and give everyone an easy out. Double dating can actually reduce awkwardness once you're on the date itself—the trick is just getting past that initial suggestion.

And remember, if someone's not up for a double date, it doesn't mean they're not interested in you—some people just prefer one-on-one time to start. Be flexible, read the room, and most importantly, keep it fun!

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