T'm trying to ask this girl out but first i have to get 2 know her but i'm wayyy to nervous!!?

theres this girl i have in my mind right and i really want to go on a date with her before my friend does. I get so nervous though when i try to talk to her and when i'm around her. I have to talk to her first and ger 2 know her.How to i talk to her without being nervous. My friend is a fruit cake and he says dumb stuff to her, so i think i have a chance with her cuz i'm not like me dum friend what do i say to her when i approach her i need advie to get 2 know her become friends with her and take her on a date. I DO NOT!! want go date someother girl this girl is one of a kind so i can't move on helpp mee!!!