Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian View image in fullscreen Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian Blind date Dating Blind date: ‘Most awkward moment? When she squished an insect that was on my forehead’ Holly, 42, a horticulturist, meets Graeme, 47, a forest manager
Prefer the Guardian on Google Graeme on Holly View image in fullscreen What were you hoping for? Really, just a fun night with minimal awkwardness was my fairly low expectation before the meeting. First impressions? A very positive, engaging lady with a beautiful smile. What did you talk about? Growing food, the joys of seeds, birdwatching, the failings of young people when it comes to proper raving, epigenetics and breaking generational cycles.
Most awkward moment? Holly destroying an aphid, which had landed on my forehead, with a firm thumb squish. I should make clear that the poor aphid wasn’t in the lovely restaurant; it was outside an entirely different place, which had hanging baskets. Good table manners? Impeccable. Best thing about Holly? Holly was incredibly easy to converse with. Her assured nature and wide range of interests meant she was a joy to be with. Would you introduce Holly to your friends? In a heartbeat.
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
Thank you for your feedback. Describe Holly in three words Nuanced, sparkling, niche.
What do you think Holly made of you? I reckon she was hugely impressed I could name every species of bird she had tattooed on her leg.
Did you go on somewhere? Yes, a nearby pub then a little nightclub.
If you could change one thing about the date, what would it be? I would tone down my oversharing
Would you meet again? I’m hugely looking forward to doing so.
View image in fullscreen Graeme and Holly on their date Holly on Graeme View image in fullscreen What were you hoping for? To meet someone interesting and fun.
First impressions? Warm, confident. Graeme quickly made me feel at ease.
What did you talk about? Our mutual nerves about the evening.…