Gráinne on Alexander
What were you hoping for?
A giggle with someone I fancy!
First impressions?
I was quite nervous when I arrived but delighted to see a beautiful man waiting for me. Alexander greeted me with a cheeky grin and a hug.
What did you talk about?
We had a lot of laughs about how small the Guardian’s dating pool might be in Belfast, and the possibility of being set up with someone we already know.
Most awkward moment?
As the date continued, an opportunity for dancing presented itself. I was eager but realised Alexander wanted to escape in favour of a calmer bar. (I reckon he couldn’t handle my moves.)
Good table manners?
Excellent. He gave me the bigger half of the bao. He must have regretted this, because he then ordered another.
Best thing about Alexander?
Oh, I was charmed by him. I think what struck me the most was his passion for his interests and excitement to share that with me.
Would you introduce Alexander to your friends?
He hinted that he might bake for them. They should be so lucky.
Describe Alexander in three words
Charming, warm and captivating.
What do you think he made of you?
I couldn’t tell if he was swooning at the food or me. I hope it’s the latter.
Did you go on somewhere?
For a few more drinks and laughs.
And … did you kiss?
He bashfully asked for permission first. Swoons.
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
I wouldn’t change anything, but the shy side of me wishes I could have met Alexander without going to the lengths of being in a national newspaper!
Marks out of 10?
10.
Would you meet again?
We made a bet: whoever is quoted in the headline gets treated to dinner.
Alexander on Gráinne
What were you hoping for?
To meet a total babe.
First impressions?
Gráinne was a total babe.
What did you talk about?
We bonded over shared passions – vegetarianism, the outdoors and experimental music.
Most awkward moment?
I suggested that relatively few people read this column. Gráinne explained that maybe millions do. We needed our third cocktail after that.
Good table manners?
Yes. I’ve never had a negroni before and she won me over to them. But also no – she tricked me into eating a chunk of wasabi and laughed at my surprised reaction.
Best thing about Gráinne?
Gráinne has recorded a number of times for a Radio 3 programme I’ve liked since I was a teen. I was a bit starstruck.
Would you introduce Gráinne to your friends?
Oh, for sure, and they’d love her. I’d introduce her to my lovely rescue greyhound, too. I think we’d make quite the trio.
Describe Gráinne in three words
Confident, stunning and enthralling.
What do you think she made of you?
I thought Gráinne was a treat – I hope she thinks the same of me.
Did you go on somewhere?
We spent hours chatting over a couple of drinks in a couple of bars until closing time. It was very sweet, to be honest.
And … did you kiss?
Oh, absolutely.
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
Just to go back and do it again.
Marks out of 10?
11?
Would you meet again?
I hope so as I’ve spent this morning thinking where to suggest we go!
Gráinne and Alexander at Yugo in Belfast. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com
