Before you hop on that horse and gallop out into the sunset with your damsel, there will be a few key plays that you’ll need to be aware of that can greatly shift her perception of you.  One of these plays is early on is the first group hang out session: her group or yours.

Which should you do?  What’s the better move?  Did you have to eat chili for lunch?  All valid questions… let’s take a closer peek.

Your group

Pro’s - You want to go where everyone knows your name.  Go ahead, sing that Cheers theme song in your head… you can curse me later.  Playing at home is much easier, you look comfortable and feel like a rock star.  Your friends will all take turns asking her questions, so you’ll get a feel for whether she’s the type to take the challenge head on and befriend everyone, or be the quiet wallflower waiting for you to hold her hand.  Either way, it’s a great way to find out a little more about her.

Con’s - Remember the story where you woke up naked in your friends bed between him and his girlfriend?  So do all of your buddies.  Your friends may start digging out stories about you that you may not want to be public knowledge.  Whether it’s the secret alcoholism or the Star Trek convention that you attended last weekend, it’s all fair game to them because they love you for it.  One on one time will most likely be kept to a minimum as well.

Her Group

Pro’s - You get to see the interaction between her and her friends.  Are they chill and want to play board games at Gurthrie’s?  Are they having a classy night at Martini Park?  Or are they joining the mayhem that’s known as the Hangge Uppe at 4am?  You’ll be able to tell a lot of different aspects of her personality by how she acts around her friends.

Con’s - You’re going into the belly of the beast without a weapon except the clothes on your back.  Her friends could grill you until you crack, so you’re going to have to play it cool.  Every one of her friends will be eyeing you up and down.  From the way you talk, walk, and dress, every aspect of you is under scrutiny to make sure you’re good enough for one of their own.  The fact that you have no comfortable shoulder to lean on (which is why you ALWAYS bring a friend) could be devestating if they start talking about shoes and nailpolish while you’re stuck in the corner staring at flickering ESPN highlights.

For the first group hangout session, always go for home court advantage.  Tell your buddies to can the skeletons for a little while longer and sit back and relax.  If you are forced to go into the lion’s den, make sure you bring a buddy along.  That way you have a solid ally in case they box you out early on.  Only if you’re a very social person who doesn’t mind being out numbered and juggling multiple personalities should you venture out alone.  Saddle up and ride smart!