The bad date. Chances are, if you’ve dated for a significant amount of time in your adult life, you’ve been there. And, if not, a word of caution: You’re not immune. Before a gal’s dating life is over (and she’s settled down with that perfect person for her), she will most likely encounter this dreaded dating scenario. Having been on a few, I just cringe. And if you’ve been there, you’re probably cringing too. It goes something like this…

You met online and everything seemed just fine. You talked on the phone and things went well. You finally agree to a lunch date/dinner plans/an afternoon adventure and when the guy shows up, he’s a toad. Or worse, a jerk. Or worse, a complete figment of his own imagination. Or worst of all, he seems perfectly fantastic except that he’s looking at you like you’re a toad/jerk/figment of your own imagination. And all you can think is “Get me out of here!”

Fear not, my fabulous single friends. Below are some time-tested ways to wiggle out of your next bad date.