Blind date: ‘I’ve given up trying to understand the male psyche’
Laura on Paddy
What were you hoping for?
No expectations, I just thought it would be a fun thing to do. Anything for a good story!
First impressions?
Things got off to a rocky start. Our date was at 6.30pm, but Paddy didn’t show up until 7pm, so I thought I was being stood up. Turns out we were given different times (sabotage from the Guardian!) (He had the email evidence), but he was super apologetic. Plus he’s tall.
What did you talk about?
Our parents’ relationships. Television and film. The TV show on the creative industry he wants to write. How we both hate dinner dates.
Most awkward moment?
I couldn’t tell if he was into me despite the nice evening we’d had, and the “romantic” lighting of Liverpool Street station was definitely not the place for a goodbye kiss, so we just had a hug and went our separate ways.
Good table manners?
Only one faux pas when he spat his wine out when I jokingly called myself “a Central line girlie”.
Best thing about Paddy?
He’s a delight.
Blind 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
Would you introduce Paddy to your friends?
He claims to like strong women so I think he’d handle my friendship group.
Describe Paddy in three words
Charming, easygoing, interesting.
What do you think Paddy made of you?
I’ve given up trying to understand the male psyche.
Did you go on somewhere?
We stumbled upon an outdoor salsa class when leaving the restaurant, but Paddy had to be up early for work.
And … did you kiss?
Alas, no.
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
The arrival time issue.
Marks out of 10?
A solid 8.
Would you meet again?
I would. He asked for my number so we’ll see.
Paddy on Laura
What were you hoping for?
Interesting chat, great company – and an opportunity to frame this article and hang it in my toilet.
First impressions?
Lovely smile, well dressed.
What did you talk about?
Bit of everything. Family. Careers. Travel. And she gave me a few funny stories about fashion celebs.
Most awkward moment?
When Laura told me I was 30 minutes late, and I had to prove my innocence by showing the email with the meet time.
Good table manners?
It was tapas, so easy peasy, but yeah, didn’t see any bad manners.
Best thing about Laura?
Her infectious laugh.
Would you introduce Laura to your friends?
Absolutely, she was great company.
Describe Laura in three words
Warm, charismatic, funny.
What do you think Laura made of you?
Hard to say but think she’d agree we got on.
Did you go on somewhere?
No. I was up at 6am that day so it was time to call it a night.
And … did you kiss?
No. It didn’t feel flirty or romantic between us, although we really got on.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
We said we’d never go for food on a first date, so maybe a cute pub with good lighting, and a game of pool.
Marks out of 10?
7.
Would you meet again?
Romantically no, but we don’t live far from each other, so if I bumped into Laura I’d happily catch up.
Laura and Paddy ate at Barrafina Coal Drops Yard, London N1. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com
