Does anyone else believe that since ALL first dates are so strange and sometimes stressful that we all need to consider meeting others as a second date?
I'm gender fluid, although not since I started taking derris scandens, a Thai herb that seem to blend my gender modes.
But back when I would swing from one gender mode to the other, I used to have to pretend pretty girls were boys to keep from getting so nervous around them when I was in "male mode."
My feet would suddenly seem huge, my brain would freeze, and I would forget how to talk, walk, or even drive my motorbike.
I'd force myself to see them as male so I'd calm down and be able to behave naturally.
I'm not sure that changing the name will do anything. If it's awkward it's awkward. I've had some fantastic first dates.
I think you should consider giving most people a 2nd date just to make sure you really aren't interested.