Should you ask someone for a first date on Valentine’s Day? You’ll likely encounter a fair amount of trepidation, according to a survey of 2,378 single people by It’s Just Lunch, a company that arranges first dates.

More than 40 percent of men reported that they would not ask a women out on a first date on February 14; 62 percent of women, on the other hand, stated that they would go on a first date on Valentine’s Day, whereas 26 percent of females felt it would be too much pressure.

Jacquie Brownridge, managing director of the Vancouver franchise, told the Georgia Straight in a phone interview that New Year’s Eve is still seen as the toughest night to be without a date, according to 36 percent of men and 35 percent of women surveyed.

“Valentine’s Day was not far behind; 26 percent of men and 33 percent of women find February 14 the toughest day to be dateless,” Brownridge said. “Only eight percent deem Valentine’s Day as their favourite night to go out.”

It’s Just Lunch interviews clients at its downtown Vancouver office, and then matches them for lunch or after-work dates based on likes and dislikes, relationship histories, lifestyles, and expectations. Company staff pick the restaurant and make reservations by first names only. There are no on-line photos, and It’s Just Lunch keeps copies of driver’s licences to verify ages.

“When they get to the restaurant…they only know the other person’s first name and a few bits of information about them—enough to get a conversation going,” Brownridge said. “But not enough so that if they decided not to see the person, the other person would have all of their personal information.”

She recommended that if people go on a first date on Valentine’s Day, they should avoid “conversation killers”, such as marriage, ex-partners, politics, dieting, and body image. And turn off your cellphone or BlackBerry.