Date #4: Bar 7

For my fourth date I headed to Bar 7 for the BMW Uptown party. This industry event was the perfect backdrop for the professional crowd filled with movers and shakers including my date “Mr. Creative”.  We met a few weeks prior when our eyes locked on the Metro, (I was exiting, he was entering) and, like a scene from a movie, he dashed up the escalator behind me to introduce himself. Usually I wouldn’t be so receptive to a stranger during my commute, but he had the most disarming smile and he was mad cute! After a quick conversation and flirtations, we exchanged digits and began the dance of “getting to know you.”

From the first hello, there was a spark. His easygoing nature and sense of humor made him feel like a long lost friend instead of a random guy I met on a Metro platform. We quickly discovered we shared a love of the arts, inappropriate jokes and family values. Our chemistry was evident and we decided that above all our budding friendship was something neither one of us wanted to lose. We made a pact that no matter what the outcome of our romantic efforts, we would try to respect the bond we were forming, but how do you do that without crossing certain lines? Do you ignore physical attraction?  And what happens if the other starts seriously dating someone else? Luckily for us, our story was just beginning and this was about the simple enjoyment of the first date……right?

On the day of the date, he sent me cute little messages to tell me how much he looked forward to seeing me, which I have to admit put a smile on my face. As I prepared for our evening out, my sister teased me for the extra effort I put into my wardrobe selection and my nervous primping before heading out the door. I have to admit, I was looking forward to seeing him.

My extra glam time payed off since nights at Bar 7 always feels like a red carpet affair, tucked away in the shadow of the Convention Center, this intimate, low-key lounge can be considered a hide out for the secret society of “pretty people”. Popular with the “in crowd” you never know who will be spotted chilling there. A who’s who list of professional athletes, actors, singers and celebrities like Trey Songz, Clinton Portis,  Lebron James and Wale, are just a few of the famous faces seen here but that night “Mr. Creative’s” smile was the star of the show.

We settled into our section and grooved to the music while snacking on a savory selection of Bar 7’s small plates. The Philly Wontons, (lightly fried and served with your choice of two homemade dipping sauces) and Shrimp and Plantains, (jumbo shrimp and South American plantains) were our favorite menu selections as well as the patriotic “Barack”, (Absolut, vanilla vodka, Godiva milk chocolate liquor, Godiva white chocolate liquor) their signature cocktail.

The event featured auto themed drink specials and guest interviews by April Jones, who served as the event’s hostess. As I was interviewed by the delightful diva about my dating adventures in D.C., Mr. Creative scored a few cool points for his patience. Since it was a “networking” event for me, I have to admit my attention was divided as I greeted friends and colleagues. I did my best to include him in conversations when I could but I think at times I was a little neglectful. To his credit, my date was a trooper. He blended in effortlessly with my friends during my busy moments and kept me smiling and laughing throughout the night.

Bar 7 has two levels and we took a moment to explore and discovered that the lower floor features a mirror clad dance floor and a second bar area perfect for private events and birthday celebrations. I fought back the urge to let my inner Beyonce free as I watched our reflections but instead made a mental note to return for one of the venues weekend club nights for a few dance battles. After all, this was a first date and I needed to maintain my cool so I settled for a subtle two step and occasional shoulder shimmy as we made our rounds in the club. By the time we said our goodbyes at the end of the night, I realized I had found a new hangout and best of all….. a new friend.

Things learned from this date:

1. There are still “good” guys out there but it’s like finding a needle in a haystack!

2. Networking events are not the best choice for a first date. It puts you in the awkward position of introducing someone you are not sure you like to important business contacts and the person may or may not be a good representative on your behalf.

3. Although it wasn’t planned, meeting my friends isn’t usually something that happens on the first date. Let the person earn the privilege to meet the VIPs in your world.

4. Lastly, go with flow. My date was great at keeping the evening pressue. I was able to enjoy his company without worrying about the what if's.

Also, for all my sexy singles: BAR 7 is hosting BE MINE VALENTINE SINGLES in the CITY on Monday, February 14th, 2011, an evening for singles to bask in the comfort of sexy décor while delighting in Valentine’s Day. The event will feature specialty cocktails, a complimentary chocolate fondue fountain and live music by Black Alley.