Martha on Jack
What were you hoping for?
A fun evening, a free meal, a story and the fun of appearing in the Guardian. But deep down, to meet someone that I really want to be with.
First impressions?
Nice-looking, a bit nervous.
What did you talk about?
His birdwatching in Northern Ireland. University. Jobs. Friends and family.
Most awkward moment?
He tried to make a joke about reading Atomic Habits and The Diary of a CEO, which fell completely flat. Partly my fault as I hadn’t heard of the books so didn’t get the joke at all.
Good table manners?
Of course. I did have to teach him how to eat pani puri though.
Best thing about Jack?
I found him to be open and honest, which I appreciated, and he seemed like a caring and sensitive guy.
Would you introduce Jack to your friends?
I think he might be a bit overwhelmed. It would be like meeting nine of me.
Describe Jack in three words
Thoughtful, sensitive, caring.
What do you think Jack made of you?
He said I was confident, independent and sure of what I wanted, which I took as a good thing. Although I think he wasn’t sure if this was right for him as a potential partner.
Did you go on somewhere?
No.
And … did you kiss?
Unfortunately not.
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
Cliche, but obviously I would have had more of a romantic connection.
Marks out of 10?
6.5.
Would you meet again?
Coming into this I said I didn’t want to give the “as friends” answer, so, honestly: no, probably not.
Jack on Martha
What were you hoping for?
To embarrass myself on the Guardian’s dime and get over dating app burnout.
First impressions?
Dazzling: a stunningly shiny outfit and she looked gorgeous.
What did you talk about?
My interests in photography and wildlife. Her fascinating India travel stories. Previous dating experiences.
Most awkward moment?
Silences that I felt the need to fill with too many questions and over-sharing.
Good table manners?
Excellent. She showed a deft and experienced touch with the pani puri.
Best thing about Martha?
She’s relaxed and self-assured. Plus, her commitment to her friends and family.
Would you introduce Martha to your friends?
I think they’ll all be too nerdy for her.
Describe Martha in three words
Sparkly, warm, intelligent.
What do you think she made of you?
I hope that I came across as a passionate person who was interested in her, and that she left thinking I’m sensitive and caring.
Did you go on somewhere?
She accompanied me further than she needed to so we could keep talking.
And … did you kiss?
We hugged.
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
I wanted her to open up a bit so I could get to know her more.
Marks out of 10?
7.5.
Would you meet again?
She was kind and friendly, but I am looking for a different kind of person.
Martha and Jack ate at Soho Wala, London W1. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com
