Sophie on Alex
What were you hoping for?
A chance to step out of my comfort zone, meet someone new and have a good meal.
First impressions?
He seemed a little nervous (so was I). Immediately friendly, cool guy.
What did you talk about?
Murder shows. Workplace drama. Sally Rooney. Travel destinations. Sunday routines.
Most awkward moment?
Nothing beyond the usual first date and blind date awkwardness. Although I did try to cut my steak with the wrong side of the knife … Embarrassing.
Good table manners?
Definitely. He was so friendly to the waiter, too – always a good sign.
Best thing about Alex?
He is very easy to talk to – he’d probably get on with just about anyone. He also has great taste in movies.
Would you introduce Alex to your friends?
If he wanted to meet them, sure.
Fancy a blind date?
ShowBlind date is Saturday’s dating column: every week, two strangers are paired up for dinner and drinks, and then spill the beans to us, answering a set of questions. This runs, with a photograph we take of each dater before the date, in Saturday magazine (in the UK) and online at theguardian.com every Saturday. It’s been running since 2009 – you can read all about how we put it together here.
What questions will I be asked?
We
ask about age, location, occupation, hobbies, interests and the type of
person you are looking to meet. If you do not think these questions
cover everything you would like to know, tell us what’s on your mind.
Can I choose who I match with?
No,
it’s a blind date! But we do ask you a bit about your interests,
preferences, etc – the more you tell us, the better the match is likely
to be.
Can I pick the photograph?
No, but don't worry: we'll choose the nicest ones.
What personal details will appear?
Your first name, job and age.
How should I answer?
Honestly
but respectfully. Be mindful of how it will read to your date, and that
Blind date reaches a large audience, in print and online.
Will I see the other person’s answers?
No. We may edit yours and theirs for a range of reasons, including length, and we may ask you for more details.
Will you find me The One?
We’ll try! Marriage! Babies!
Can I do it in my home town?
Only if it’s in the UK. Many of our applicants live in London, but we would love to hear from people living elsewhere.
How to apply
Email blind.date@theguardian.com
Describe Alex in three words.
Considerate, outgoing, active.
What do you think Alex made of you?
Not sure! Hopefully he thought I was funny and interesting. Maybe he thought I talked a lot and was very American.
Did you go on somewhere?
We grabbed a pint at the pub around the corner.
And … did you kiss?
No, we didn’t.
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
Maybe a bit more banter – it was definitely more of a platonic vibe. I’d also wear more comfortable shoes.
Marks out of 10?
7.
Would you meet again?
Yeah, I would do.
Alex on Sophie
What were you hoping for?
A good meal with someone interesting, or a fun story to tell.
First impressions?
Very well dressed and a great smile.
What did you talk about?
Our love of dark psychological thrillers. Sally Rooney novels. Workplace gossip.
Most awkward moment?
I accidentally stepped on her foot when we met.
Good table manners?
Excellent. She devoured her steak with ease and was happy to share starters.
Best thing about Sophie?
She was incredibly sweet to the waiters and lit up when talking about her family.
Would you introduce Sophie to your friends?
Definitely – she’d more than hold her own over a few beers.
Describe Sophie in three words.
Fun, kind, chatty.
What do you think Sophie made of you?
We got on pretty well, so hopefully a glowing review.
Did you go on somewhere?
To a pub around the corner for a quick pint. Then I walked her to the bus stop.
And … did you kiss?
No.
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
The food was great, but I think a sit-down meal was a bit too formal for both of us. Drinks at a pub would have been a bit more relaxed.
Marks out of 10?
8.
Would you meet again?
We’ve exchanged numbers, so we’ll see.
Sophie and Alex ate at Galvin Bar and Grill, London WC1. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com
English (US)