It's because I want to drink it!

If I'm seeing a lady that I've seen a few times or have chatted with a good bit on-line, I'll often bring some music or a book. I like giving gifts that people truly appreciate.

I also like wine.

Wine does not work on a first appointment.  Lots of reasons.  If you don't have the first 3 things that you talked about, envelope, clean and safety, a gift won't help.  I have only had one bad reaction to flowers.  She had too many of them.  So, 9 times out of 10, flowers work.  But, never underestimate how much a Lady loves flowers.  It helps with that third item you mentioned, safely.  She feels more wanted and comfortable with you.  So, yes, the appointment goes better.  Makes a big difference.  The same thing goes for fruit or chocolate.  

I tend to bring a small gift (chocolates or a candle -- I'm allergic to a many of flowers) to indicate respect and appreciation immediately upon my arrival - especially if it's someone I've never met before.  (Guys, if you aren't respectful and appreciative, you might as well stop reading now.)  

Usually I'm told that this is the first time she's gotten a gift, or she very rarely gets gifts, and it sets a positive tone for our encounter.  My impression is that this tends to result in a better time for me.  And I've learned that if she isn't appreciative of the gift it's probably not going to be a good visit.  (I haven't yet had the nerve to say something to the effect of, "well, since you're not appreciative of my consideration of you, I probably can't expect you to have much consideration of me," and leave before handing her the envelope....  but that's becoming more likely.)

Bottom line:  A small gift can hep you show that you think of her as a person worthy of respect and appreciation.

that I don't HAVE to think of the little things.  I'm paying for the privilege of something being completely about me.

That being said, I have given small gifts a time or two, and while ymmv, my mileage was greatly increased.  But it's nice to enter into an arrangement where gifts aren't expected, and therefore, they're more greatly appreciated.

Helps me

I try to get to know who I am visiting before I go and attempt to get a gift that is appropriate.  I get an idea if we are compatible very early by giving a gift.  Most of my gifts are very small in terms of money spent, but is a sign of respect, an indicator if we are a good match, and a fun way to start out a "date".

I don't expect a huge reaction, but it makes me feel good and isn't that what this is all about....for both us and our date?????????????

I have never given gifts on a first visit, but on Outcalls, I always make sure that I have some wine or chilled water available.  That is just courtesy.  A few ladies I have seen many times, I have given gifts brought from europe or gift cards to Vicky Secrets, but those gifts are for my future benefit.   Every so often, I have a satin blind fold and a rose, but those are only props to one of my stories