GETTING IN THE MOOD

FIVE TIPS TO SET THE MOOD:

#1.) LIGHTS AND MUSIC. Everyone looks better . . . and feels less self-conscious . . . with romantic lighting. Turn off any fluorescent bulbs and light some candles to create soft mood lighting. Keep the music low enough so you can talk to your date.

--If you're going out, choose a place with low lighting, good food, instrumental or jazz music and a relatively quiet atmosphere conducive to conversation.

#2.) SCENT. Scent plays an important role in attraction, but subtlety is key. You want your date to catch a whiff of something good when he or she gets close, not smell you from across the room.

#3.) FOODS. Stick to food that smells good, looks good and won't spill or create a mess. A simple cheese, fruit and cracker plate alongside a good bottle of wine is all you need for a romantic snack.

#4.) HOME. If you plan to end up at your place after your date, make sure it looks and smells clean. Flowers and aromatic candles are good. Your place doesn't have to be spotless, but at the very least, it should be free of clutter and vacuumed.

#5.) TOUCH. Body language does A LOT to set the mood for an evening . . . so make lots of eye contact and hold hands while you're walking.

And don't forget the power of a compliment. If you love your date's smile or sense of humor, don't be afraid to tell them. (Happen Magazine)