Lydia, 29, (pictured) is an account director who has been single for 18 months
LYDIA, 29
Dating Past?
I was in a four-year relationship, but we broke up 18 months ago.
I’ve got a good group of girlfriends who are all still single — we don’t understand the rush to settle down. Plus, I find the dating scene strange. I’m afraid I don’t like the apps at all. I prefer to meet people through friends or when I’m out socially.
I’ve only been on one blind date before, when I was taken to an all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet. I thought it was an odd choice, and I was really hoping this one would be nicer.
Pre-Date Nerves?
None, I am someone who genuinely enjoys meeting new people.
First Impressions?
We met at Taka, a contemporary Japanese restaurant in Mayfair, London. Will was already there when I arrived — I came straight from work. He is handsome with a lovely smile, and I thought he was nicely dressed.
Easy To Talk To?
Will is very chatty. He’s a wonderful raconteur and he regaled me with stories from his life, mainly about how he splits his work between London and Los Angeles, in the U.S.
It didn’t put me off; I rather fancy the idea of being with someone who travels so much.
Embarrassing Moments?
None that I know of.
Did Sparks Fly?
Yes, they did a bit. There was some chemistry between us and I guess I did flirt a little with Will. It was a nice date, so who knows what could happen next?
Will is definitely boyfriend material. There was chemistry
We had a lovely evening together — and, luckily, Will didn’t mind waiting 20 minutes for the chocolate fondue I had ordered for dessert.
We only said goodbye because Will had to get back to his home in Surrey.
Did You Kiss?
Not in the romantic sense, kisses on both cheeks only. But Will is definitely boyfriend material.
What do you think he thought of you?
That I love beer. I couldn’t resist ordering a couple of Japanese beers. I don’t think he thought it was unusual.
Would your family like him?
They would like Will because he’s a lovely man. He’s definitely the sort of guy I would introduce to my mum. She’s very easy-going anyway when it comes to accepting people — you would have to be a hardened criminal to get on the wrong side of her.
Will, 37, (pictured) is a PR and events director who has never married
WILL, 37
Dating Past?
I do ask myself why I haven’t been snapped up yet. I’ve had two long-term relationships: one ended badly after seven years, and the second ended when our careers took us in different directions.
I’m confident around women and my female friends are protective of me. Anyone I get involved with will have to accept that and enjoy their company. Some women find this hard to deal with, but I’m never going to change.
Pre-Date Nerves?
I was a little nervous. I prefer to plan a first date and do my research about what food she likes and what we should do together.
First Impressions?
I got there first — that’s the way it should be. Lydia looked good but I knew immediately that I wasn’t attracted to her. We had sushi and finished with a chocolate fondue.
Easy To Talk To?
Yes — Lydia has lived in Cambodia, and I offered stories about life in LA, where I spend a lot of time. There weren’t awkward silences, but I might have dominated the conversation a bit.
Embarrassing Moments?
I was a little surprised that Lydia ordered beer. I prefer wine, but I ordered a beer, too, so she didn’t feel bad having it on her own.
Did Sparks Fly?
There wasn’t a spark for me. I’m black and white when it comes to attraction — it’s there or it’s not. I don’t think we flirted.
I do ask myself why I haven’t been snapped up yet
I date more in LA as there are more singles out there, but LA girls tend to want a guy who can financially provide for them. I’m a romantic and still believe in flowers and surprising a girl with a candlelit dinner. Such gestures work better in the UK.
Did You Kiss?
We did a double peck on each cheek and exchanged numbers. I texted her afterwards and said what a lovely night I’d had and how nice it had been to meet her.
What do you think she thought of you?
That I’m a gentleman and a nice person.
Would your family like her?
My family would get on really well with Lydia. She isn’t someone who would be overwhelmed by my lifestyle. They would also like the fact that Lydia wouldn’t freak out about pictures of me online hanging out with attractive girls.
Would you Like us to find you a Date? FANCY a posh meal with an eligible single like you? Or would you like to play cupid for someone else? Email your — or their — details and a photo to blinddate@ dailymail.co.uk