Blind date- ‘We agreed that neither of us has good table manners and that neither of us cared’

**Interview with Julia and Isabella: A Blind Date Encounter**

**Setting the Scene: A Recent Blind Date**
We’re joined by Julia, 25, who works in fundraising, and Isabella, 24, a Master’s student focusing on data and AI ethics. They recently went on a blind date on Saturday, September 14, 2024.

**Julia’s Perspective on Their Meeting**
*What were you hoping for?*
“I just moved to London from the US, so I was hoping to meet someone fun. Plus, my mom is a huge fan of ‘Blind Date,’ so I felt like I was doing this for her as well.”

*First impressions?*
“She was beautiful and incredibly friendly.”

*What did you discuss?*
“We covered a lot of ground—books, writing, and we even reminisced about ‘Legally Blonde.’ We shared our not-so-exciting summer experiences and talked about the benefits of walking, biking, and cold-water swimming.”

*Most awkward moment?*
“The usual back-and-forth over who would get the last bites of our shared appetizers was a little awkward.”

*Good table manners?*
“We didn’t really comment on that, but I’d say yes!”

*What’s the best thing about Isabella?*
“She’s incredibly intelligent and has such a wide range of interests. Our conversation lasted three to four hours and was both easygoing and enjoyable.”

*Would you introduce Isabella to your friends?*
“Absolutely.”

*Describe Isabella in three words.*
“Engaging, sparkly, ethicist.”

**Isabella’s Take on Their Date**
*What were you hoping for?*
“I was looking for an exciting story, some good food, and hopefully a new connection.”

*First impressions?*
“Julia was right on time and made me feel instantly comfortable.”

*What topics did you cover?*
“We jumped into discussions about Jia Tolentino and Zadie Smith, touched on bisexuality and accents, shared our passion for snake plants, and talked about musicals, aging, and our ‘brat summer’ experiences.”

*Most awkward moment?*
“There wasn’t one at all. I felt at ease as soon as she sat down.”

*Good table manners?*
“We both admitted that we didn’t have the best table manners, but it didn’t matter to either of us.”

*What’s the best thing about Julia?*
“She’s a fantastic listener.”

*Would you introduce Julia to your friends?*
“Definitely! I think they’d really click.”

*Describe Julia in three words.*
“Charming, engaging, relaxed.”

**Reflections on the Date**
*What do you think Julia thought of you?*
“At first, she probably thought I was American, but then realized that my accent was a bit confusing and might have been disappointed.”

*Did you go anywhere after?*
“Just to Baker Street to catch the tube.”

*And did you kiss?*
“Nope.”

*If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?*
“I wish we had bigger appetites to finish the food!”

*How would you rate the date out of 10?*
“I’d give it an 8.”

*Would you meet again?*
“We’ve exchanged numbers and are planning to meet up again, but more as friends since neither of us felt a romantic spark.”

Their dinner took place at Opso in London W1. If you’re interested in trying a blind date, you can reach out at [email protected].