Emma (pictured, 40) is a dog-groomer who has been married for seven years.
EMMA, 40
What is your relationship history?
I don’t go for brief flings. My marriage ended at 21. I then divorced and was single three years to raise my son.
I was in a relationship for ten years and then had my second boy. But, since then, have been living alone. I’ve been online dating for seven years, so nothing surprises me any more.
Pre-Date Nerves?
It was something I really looked forward to. This was a volunteer job that my mum gave me, and she was much more anxious than I.
First Impressions
Nick was all I could have hoped for when it came to company. He was friendly, warm, and funny. His arrival was a first for me. He was dressed in a nice jacket and jeans which is a good thing because not all men put the same effort.
His smile was beautiful and his eyes were gorgeous. However, I like muscular men. We had a great time and he was always up for a good laugh. He was kind and polite, which I appreciated.
It’s easy to talk with?
Both of us have the same sense of humor and often joke about each other. The experience of being blind-dates was funny and we shared some online dating nightmare stories. Our shared love of camping and the outdoors is what we both enjoy.
His smile was beautiful and his eyes were bright. But I prefer more muscular men.
He was also very ambitious in his work which I find important. I enjoyed the compliments he gave me about my business. Importantly, he was comfortable in his own skin, which is something you can’t put a price on.
What are embarrassing moments?
No. It was just laughter.
Sparks Fly!
He seemed to be open to a second date, and I was able get the feeling that he wanted. We exchanged numbers.
If our paths crossed I’d definitely meet up with him for a chat, but I didn’t feel any sort of spark which is a shame, as I think he’d be a wonderful partner.
Are you open to a new friendship?
Perhaps for a romantic hike, not romance.
How do you imagine he felt about you?
His impression of me was that I was easygoing and fun. With good body language and eye contact, he was very engaged during our conversation.
Are your friends and family like him?
As he is a great company, yes.
Nick (pictured), 47, is a director who was single for three consecutive years.
NICK, 47
What is your relationship history?
After 16 years of being in a relationship, we parted ways. Since then I’ve tried online dating, but it’s quite painful trying to find the right person.
Pre-Date Nerves?
Non, my job is in sales and I enjoy meeting new people. So I chose to wear a jacket and a shirt because I wanted to look smart.
First Impressions
Emma came to me as I am always the first one on dates. Her beauty was amazing. The blouse she wore was elegant, as was her white pants. She was also warm and friendly.
It was surprising to me that we got along well and there was no awkwardness. I was amazed she’s been single for a long time.
It’s easy to talk with?
Yes. We share so many commonalities. I love that she’s interested in camping and hiking, and has even bought a camper van which is right up my street. It’s a great place to walk, and I am located at the Peak District.
It was her birthday on the actual date, which meant that we had probably had some more drinks than usual.
The waiter suggested that a candle be placed in a cake. She found it quite funny. We laughed about the fact her mum had put her forward for the date — I thought it was sweet.
It was funny to her that I had ordered a candle for her birthday in a cake.
What are embarrassing moments?
None.
Sparks Fly!
It’s hard to tell because I’m a man and not good at spotting this kind of thing, but I certainly felt a connection. She was beautiful to me. That’s all I know.
After the dinner, she had an acquaintance who was meeting her so we exchanged numbers and ended the evening with a kiss on each other’s cheeks. On my way back, I sent her a funny message to make her aware of how costly the wine was. We had a lot.
Are you open to a new friendship?
I’d certainly meet again to see if there is something there.
You wonder what she thinks of you.
I think she enjoyed herself, but it’s hard to tell if she thought there was any chance of romance.
Do you think your family would like her?
Yes. Emma would be a good fit for my friends, who like to go outside.
Would you like to share a nice meal with someone who is single and eligible? You might also be interested in playing cupid for another person. Email your — or their — details and a photo to blinddate@dailymail.co.uk