No matter where, how or why you've come across this new love interest, the prospect of a first date is always exciting. Whether it's a friend of a friend you met a house party, someone you shifted in the wee hours of Coppers, or a Tinder match, this one meeting has the potential to change your life. And that's always a little bit thrilling.  Here's our take on expectation vs. reality when it comes to going on a first date. And you can trust us when we say we've been on our fair share of them. 1. The nerves Expectation: Cool, calm and collected are your middle names. You've been on plenty of dates before. What's there to be nervous about? Reality: The jitters start in the hour or two leading up to the date. And before you know it they turn into full-blown nerves. What if he's awful? What if he's the one? What if you're not sure? The stress is real. 2. The first impression Expectation: Instant chemistry. Your eyes will meet across the bar, you'll both smile, and make each other laugh within the first few minutes. Then you settle in for an evening filled with scintillating conversation and sparkling banter. Reality: It's awkward. Really awkward. He's nervous, you're nervous. You go in for the cheek kiss, he goes for the handshake. You need a drink. Stat. You've only just sat down and you already know it's going to be a long night. A really long night. 3. The levels of attraction Expectation: Fireworks! Fireworks everywhere! You can't stop staring at eachother. The tension is palpable. It's the stuff of epic love stories. The sparks are real. Reality: You were obviously suffering from a case of the vodka goggles in Coppers. A serious case. 4. The height situation Expectation: His online profile says he's six foot. So naturally, when you meet for the first time, he'll be six foot. Reality: He's nowhere near six foot. You try to hide your disappointment, but it's a struggle. 5. The conversation Expectation: You'll ease straight into glittering, hilarious banter. Obviously. You're the most charming person you know. Reality: You find yourself rambling. And rambling. About the first thing that comes into your head. That primary school tour to Athlone was pretty great, in fairness. He needed to know about that. 6. The sense of humour Expectation: He'll make you laugh until you cry. Reality: He's not funny. He's actually not funny at all. And why doesn't he get your sarcasm? What's wrong with him?   We've all been on our fair share of first dates that don't live up to our expectations. But when you do find the one you want to keep dating, you'll know, because reality will meet your expectations. You can take our word on that! Sprite, the truth is refreshing.