Alex on Ellie
What were you hoping for?
To meet someone kind and have an enjoyable evening with someone I maybe wouldn’t ordinarily choose for myself.
First impressions?
Pretty, with great style, loads of personality and a really relaxed energy.
What did you talk about?
Work. Travelling. Shared Bristol connections and an unexpected link to a nightclub in Swindon. Her new personal training side hustle. Probably a bit too much about my cycling, in hindsight.
Most awkward moment?
I managed to make a bit of a mess with some crackers that were a lot more brittle than I expected.
Good table manners?
She had really nice table manners.
Best thing about Ellie?
Her smile and infectious laugh.
Would you introduce Ellie to your friends?
Absolutely.
Describe Ellie in three words
Warm, easygoing, fun.
Q&AFancy a blind date?
Show
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
What do you think Ellie made of you?
I’m not entirely sure. She was very honest at the end and said she didn’t feel romantic chemistry, which I respected. Aside from that, I hope she found me decent company.
Did you go on somewhere?
Nope.
And … did you kiss?
Only a friendly peck on the cheek.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
Probably I’d talk a little less. I think I got a bit carried away once the wine kicked in.
Marks out of 10?
7.5.
Would you meet again?
I’d definitely meet again as friends. I really enjoyed her company.
Ellie on Alex
What were you hoping for?
I try to have not to have too many expectations, but was hoping for good chat, laughter and alfresco dining.
First impressions?
We were both nervous and early, but as soon as I met him I was at ease.
What did you talk about?
Japan. Our lack of wine knowledge. Favourite fitness things.
Most awkward moment?
A piece of food fell out of my mouth as I was talking. But he nearly knocked his wine over, so I think we were even.
Good table manners?
Yes. Mine were worse, due to the above.
Best thing about Alex?
He has a really welcoming, warm vibe.
Would you introduce Alex to your friends?
Yes, but I can’t fully imagine us in each other’s social circles.
Describe Alex in three words
Warm, humble, intelligent.
What do you think Alex made of you?
I’m not sure. I think he agreed we had fun, but the attraction wasn’t there.
Did you go on somewhere?
No.
And … did you kiss?
Only the cheek.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
Some chemistry might have been nice.
Marks out of 10?
8.
Would you meet again?
I don’t think so, but I had a wonderful evening getting to know Alex.
Ellie and Alex ate at Pasta Ripiena in Bristol. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com