SAN DIEGO -- Millions of people watched the conclusion of the television show "The Bachelor," Thursday night, but for most people getting to marriage takes some work -- and there are definitely some things you shouldn't do.

This is where Wendee Mason enters the picture. Mason teaches a seminar called DateSmart, specializing in the 10 dating don'ts of a first date.

"They're essential, because have you ever married somebody that you never went out on a first date with?" Mason said.

About 50 single people who signed up for Mason's seminar feel the same way. Mason usually starts the class with dating and dressing tips.

"Accessorize," Mason told her class. "Don't spend money on a wardrobe, spend money on an accessory that gives a man an excuse to come up to you."

During the nine week course, class participants even get to practice date on each other. But to get you started, here are Mason's 10 Dating Don'ts:

1. Don't Plan A First Date At Night
"The psychology behind that is that it's safer. And people will take advantage of you in the dark," Mason said.

2. Don't Pick Up Your Date At Home
"You meet at one of your homes, are we going to do that anymore?," Mason asked her class. "No. Where are we going to meet? At the walk and talk location."

3. Don't Take Too Much Time
Keep the date short. Generally you want to keep your date between 30 minutes to two hours, Mason said. The goal is to leave them wanting more.

4. Don't Spend Too Much Money
After all, Mason says, it may not work out.

5. Don't Tell Your Life Story
This falls in line with Don't #3. It's difficult to leave anyone wanting more after they've been subjected to the unpleasant details of your last trip to the doctor.

6. Don't Talk About Past Relationships
"Talking about past relationships is something that people often do. There is probably nothing productive about it," Mason said.

7. Don't Confuse Looks With Personality
"The worst dating mistake is that we mistake chemistry for compatibility," Mason said.

8. Don't Kiss Too Soon
"Kissing to soon; no way. Sex; no way. There is no way that I am ready for sex without a committed relationship. I've had a good relationship. I want that again," said smart dater Bonny Aday.

9. Don't Be Afraid To Say No
This goes hand-in-hand with Don't #8. Never be afraid to stand your ground. If the person your dating doesn't agree, you probably don't want to be with them anyway.

10. Don't Fail To Secure The Next Date
"Being more assertive in your dating, coming up with specific plans, time, and also spelling out up front who's paying, by the way" is important, Mason said.

Many of the people in Mason's DateSmart class have taken it before and say that they like the idea of dating in a controlled environment.

To find out more about DateSmart, click here.