Lennard on Sophia
What did you expect?
A nice evening with someone new. I was wondering what the evening would bring.
First impressions?
Very open and welcoming. I had been all day and needed time to get off, but he immediately put me at ease.
What did you talk about?
Sophia is a vocalist, life coach and a very lively person. I was curious about his way of living, traveling, and combining all of this. We talked about our professions, our music, our art, how we enjoy our lives, and our future. We talked about the way we interact with our families, our past relationships, and our common interests.
Your weirdest moment?
I have to go to the toilet three times.
Good table manners?
We ate with our hands, but the food we ordered had to be eaten!
The best thing about Sophia?
It’s very clear. He looked into my eyes as he spoke and did not joke. I really liked this.
Would you introduce Sophia to your friends?
Definitely. I can see them having good conversations and laughing.
Describe Sophia in three words
Energetic, passionate, open-minded.
What do you think he understands from you?
I think he enjoyed my company. I thought you were curious about my life. I had done my best to dress well and smell fresh. I couldn’t cut my beard because I lost my hair clipper. This might have made me look like a bum because I was a little tired too, but maybe she likes rough edges!
Did you go somewhere?
No, Sophia had to catch the train home and I think we both enjoyed catching up for dinner that evening.
And… did you kiss me?
No, we didn’t.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
I would try a few different dishes. And I looked at my cards more carefully. (I lost my credit card and driver’s license on the way home.)
Marks out of 10?
I would give it an 8 for the evening. We had a lot of fun, ate good food and went home a little drunk.
Will you meet again?
Probably. We could easily talk for a few more hours, so I could imagine us having another dinner together or going to a concert.
Blind dating is the subject of Saturday’s dating column: Every week, two strangers get together for dinner and drinks and then spill the beans to us by answering a series of questions. This is published in Saturday magazine (in the UK) and online every Saturday at theguardian.com, along with a photo of each appointment we took before that date. Working since 2009; You can read all about how we put it together here.
What questions will I be asked?
We ask about your age, location, occupation, hobbies, interests and the type of person you would like to meet. If you don’t think these questions cover everything you want to know, let us know what’s on your mind.
Can I choose who I match with?
No, this is a blind date! But we can tell you about your interests, preferences, etc. We ask some questions about; The more you tell us, the better the match.
Can I choose the photo?
No, but don’t worry; We will choose the most beautiful ones.
What personal details will appear?
Your name, job and age.
How should I respond?
Honestly but respectfully. Pay attention to how to read to your date and Blind date will reach a wide audience in print and online.
Will I see the other person’s answers?
No. We may edit yours and theirs for a variety of reasons, including length and may ask you for more details.
Will you find me Him?
We will try! Marriage! Babies!
Can I do it in my own city?
Only if in the UK. Most of our applicants live in London, but we’d also like to hear from people living elsewhere.
How to apply
Email blind.date@theguardian.com
Sophia vs. Lennard
What did you expect?
A night of good food and easy, flowing conversation and connection. I try to let things develop as they should.
First impressions?
We were both a little nervous but he was easy to talk to from the beginning. Really sweet and attentive.
What did you talk about?
Oh, so many things! The places we visited. Past heartbreaks. Family life. Our creative businesses. My puppy… We continued talking after the closing and probably could have talked for much longer.
Your weirdest moment?
It’s a bit shocking to suddenly go on a blind date with so much new information. I could tell he needed some time to settle in. Maybe he was stunned by my beauty! Who knows?
Good table manners?
He wanted to try my food, which was a risky move, but I appreciated it. I love sharing food. We tried many things: meatballs, duck, lamb, white wines… delicious!
The best thing about Lennard?
He’s a great listener. I live a pretty unconventional life and he seemed more intrigued than worried. I shared a few slightly sensitive things about myself and she was warm and open to everything. As a woman, you always notice when someone makes you feel safe.
Can you introduce Lennar?to your friends?
Definitely.
Describe Lennard in three words
Open-minded, creative and compassionate.
What do you think he understands from you?
He said he liked me and wanted to see me again. We have many similar interests. We both love traveling and warm climates. We both have tons of creative energy and love building communities around our passions.
Did you go somewhere?
No, I had to catch the last train to The Hague. Next time!
Relating to: Blind date: ‘I took a break for almost a minute after the blue cheese’
And… did you kiss me?
No, but we exchanged our numbers and had a nice hug.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
I had an appointment in The Hague so I wouldn’t have to return home at this time of night.
Marks out of 10?
10. Also a big shout out to Batoni Khinkali. Great Georgian food and the staff treated us like royalty. They have a liqueur called chacha That’s incredible.
Will you meet again?
Yes, I’m sure we will.
Sophia and Lennard dined at Batoni Khinkali in Amsterdam. How about a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com