Laura (pictured), a 31-year-old registered veterinary nurse, has been single for the past four years.
LAURA, 31
What is the Dating Past?
At 23 I lost my heart. After that, I was single for several years and I’ve not dated properly since 2018. In the pre-pandemic era, speed-dating was something I enjoyed, but it never led to anything.
Pre-Date Nerves?
The night before the date I developed the most horrendous toothache and had to get an emergency dental appointment — it turned out I had an abscess. I almost cancelled, but I’m glad I didn’t.
It was my goal to have a great time on the date. Besides, we’d both taken the day off work for it. But the stress meant I didn’t have time to be nervous.
First Impressions
Sam was already sitting at the table by my arrival. I was surprised to see him smile at me after he saw my face. His navy suit was on him, while mine was a black floral print dress. He looked amazing.
Are you easy to communicate with?
Sam guessed that, because of my job, I didn’t eat meat and he was correct. He requested a vegetarian dinner menu and was thoughtful enough to ask if I were okay about him eating chicken.
Sam is a participant in World War II reenactment weekends, and it was interesting to hear about his experiences. I also got to see pictures of the dogs and cats he’s had over the years, which got a big tick from me.
Sam has traditional values – he even carried my bags
Are You a Hostess for These Embarrassing Moments
No, except after our date Sam accompanied me to London’s St Pancras station to catch my train home. He’d never been there before and was overawed by the building.
Sparks Fly
Sam said he’d like to see me again. I didn’t know what to say. In the end I said ok, but on a friend level… for now. I’d hate to get his hopes up when I’m not sure.
Seen him again?
I feel like we need to meet again to know if there’s any chemistry between us. We absolutely get on, though — our outlook is similar.
You think that he was thinking of you.
His gentlemanliness was admirable. He told me how beautiful I looked, and asked me to come back. Sam must have liked me.
Is he a good fit for your family?
Yes. Sam is a traditionalist and he even carried my bag across London. We had a drink while waiting for my train and he wouldn’t hear of me paying or going halves.
Samuel (30, pictured), who is single for 2 years, works as an IT analyst
SAMUEL, 30
What is the Dating Past?
I met my first love at 19 and we were together for more than a year, but it didn’t work out. My first love was at 19 when I met my best friend. However, the relationship ended four years later.
Pre-Date Nerves?
When my father told me about the restaurant, I was inspired to go out to buy a jacket and shirt.
Nerves? Yes, there were some. It can seem daunting to meet someone new for the first. However, ten minutes into meeting Laura, those feelings had completely gone — she made me feel comfortable.
First Impressions
With hugs, we greeted one another. Laura was dressed in a beautiful, flowery gown that looked stunning on her. She loved it and I was happy to tell her.
Are you easy to communicate with?
We immediately began to discuss the menu. I’d already had a look and politely checked to see if she was a vegetarian. My instincts were correct, but fortunately Laura didn’t mind what I ate, so I went for a chicken dish.
Laura was kind enough to offer me her dessert. But she finished it first before I got a chance! The shortbread and boring ice cream was so good that I just sat down and enjoyed it.
I’d love this to be the first of many dates. She would be a great choice for my Nan.
Laura is charming and has a great personality. I can tell that Laura’s job is important to her. Laura is a caring person who takes care of all sorts of animals, and unfortunately has to deal with some heartbreaking situations when it comes to sick animals. If there were more of her kind, the world would be a much better place.
Are You Embarrassed by These Moments?
I dropped the menu — that was it.
Sparks Fly
Yes, I’d like that to be the case. I’d like this to be the first of many dates with Laura. After saying goodbye, we swapped numbers.
You can see her again.
Laura is a truly special woman. It was a pleasure to have met her, and I look forward to our next meeting. We’ve been exchanging messages.
You wonder what she thinks of you.
Laura must have been surprised that I was so insistent on acting like a gentleman. She also seemed a bit shocked when I offered my help with carrying her large bag.
Is she someone you would want for your family?
Yes, Laura’s values chime with mine. She would be loved by my family, especially my Nan. She is so resilient and kind.
You want a fancy meal? An eligible Are you single? Or What would you like? Play cupid You know someone else? Email your — or their — details Take a picture blinddate@dailymail.co.uk