Well, the ladies love me, so I think I can give you some advice (though not from the DC area).
The initial step is to flirt. Flirt like there is no tomorrow, but be cautious. If she returns the signals, that's your "in." Ask her out. And whatever you do, don't make any jokes about being a rapist/serial killer. This right here shows not only your nervousness, but that you may be a liar too. (she could think you are one of these horrible things.)
On your date, depending on how cold it is, take her for ice cream. And I'm not talking baskin robins here. I'm talking made up front, a little pricey, home made (not manufactured crap) ice cream. In Denver there is this place called "licks." Best damn ice cream around. Girls go weak in the knees for their chocolate flavors.
Then, take a stroll through a park surrounded by nice homes that has lots of lights. Show her the stars or hell, take her to an art gallery (be sure to stay away from thsoe GREAT PIECES OF ART, the paint splashes on canvas. These have no meaning and are for wannabe artists, people who struggle with everything else in life and think some paint splashed on canvas is a meaningful interpretation of their life).
If you follow these kinds of steps through three dates, I almost guarantee a victory for you. You can also tell a lot about a person by the contents of their wallet/purse. Start comparing these things (second date only). If she has birth control, that's a sign of 2 possible things. 1. She's a slut. 2. She's aware of the risks and she's not prude. Make sure you compare grocery store cards/credit cards, and ID cards not to look like a fool.
Last but not least, no woman likes her ear breathed in, licked, or kissed. Don't ever do this or risk being slapped!!!!
