Charlotte, 43
Single.
Dating past?
I’ve been single for three months after a couple of long-term relationships, which were each about five years long. It’s been hard to find the right man because I’ve changed jobs often and never put down roots — I guess I’ve been distracted by my career.
Pre-Date Nerves?
I was nervous as I’ve never been on a blind date before. I wanted to feel good so I dressed up in a pretty, long orange dress and ordered a tea to calm myself on arrival.
First Impressions?
I thought he looked like an attractive children’s TV presenter. He had a big, welcoming smile and childlike blue glasses. He was wearing quite jazzy clothes — a sparkly multi-coloured jacket — and was so friendly and gregarious. I thought at least he wasn’t going to be boring.
Easy To Talk To?
He’s very talkative and came across as touchy-feely and in tune with his emotions, which is always a good thing. We talked about so many things, from our careers and travels to philosophy and the state of the world.
Charlotte (pictured), 43, is single. Her current role is an analytical technician in a chemistry lab
We both agreed that workplaces are often geared towards men and not women, especially in my field. He asked me what I was looking for in a romantic partner and I told him ‘a gentle person’. He said he liked that. He was intelligent and kind.
Embarrassing Moments?
I didn’t tell him he had cream on his nose from his hot chocolate, but I thought it was sweet.
Did Sparks Fly?
There was no wild flirting but we were very engaged in our conversation. It takes a while for me to build up a spark, so there is still potential for romance if we get to know each other better. He left it to the very last minute to leave, so I think he enjoyed my company. As we parted, he gave me a kiss on the cheek and ran for his train.
See him again?
Yes, he lives about two hours away but suggested we meet up. Since then, we’ve been messaging and he’s very kind and affectionate in his texts and always adds a little kiss.
What do you think he thought of you?
He complimented my dress and hair, and he seemed to enjoy my company.
Would your friends like him?
Yes — he would definitely be invited around for a family gathering.
Lee, 38
Divorced with two young children.
Dating past?
I was with my wife for 11 years but we grew apart and divorced last year. I haven’t been doing any kind of dating since then. This blind date was my first foray.
Pre-Date Nerves?
I do a lot of public speaking but I was still nervous because you never know what to expect. I wore a peach shirt with a blazer and smart jeans and trainers. I have an interesting style, as I like to wear bold colours. For too long, my look was overly corporate, so I put more effort in now.
First Impressions?
Charlotte was already at the bar, and I noticed her lovely dress. She greeted me with a big, bright smile. She has lovely eyes and although I could tell she was nervous (as I was) she was engaging.
Lee (pictured), 38, is divorced with two young children. He is a founder of a wellbeing and training business
Easy To Talk To?
The chat flowed so well that the waitress had to come back three times to take our order. It was a great conversation because Charlotte is clever and thoughtful. We talked about our travels and places we’d been. We’re both a little introverted and we found travelling to be a great way to push our boundaries. We also had a deep conversation about our careers, science and the world around us.
Embarrassing Moments?
Only when I realised I had to stop talking in order to read the menu.
Did Sparks Fly?
There weren’t big sparks… more like little flickers. The way we both saw the world resonated with each other, and there was definitely a connection. But I was probably a bit more reserved than usual because I was trying to be respectful and not force anything. It was a lovely start and we exchanged numbers.
See her again?
It’s a case of when, not if. I would have liked to stay longer but because of the train strikes I had to get a taxi to the station. We didn’t have time for dessert but squeezed in some coffees. I was so keen to stay that I only just made the last train.
What do you think she thought of you?
It’s never easy to tell, but we were definitely on the same wavelength and enjoyed each other’s company.
Would your friends like her?
I think they’d say she is a good match for me. She’s a lovely person to be around.
CHARLOTTE’S Verdict:
7/10
LIKED? I felt comfortable.
REGRETS? We had no time for dessert.
COFFEE OR CAB? Coffee.
LEE’S Verdict:
9/10
LIKED? How caring and bright she is.
REGRETS? Not at all.
COFFEE OR CAB? Coffee.