The JC blind date: ‘It felt more fireplace than fireworks’

I actually found it strangely refreshing to dive straight into a date, without any of the typical dating rituals.

Your first impression?

She was wearing a really nice black and gold top. It suited her.

What were you hoping from the evening?

I was hoping for great conversation and the chance to connect with someone new.

Did you discuss matters Jewish?

We chatted about Jewish dating and about our shared frustration of how few communities there are for secular Jewish adults to meet in social spaces, outside of synagogues and religious organisations.

Did you discuss matters Israeli?

Charlotte shared with me a funny story about a school trip to Israel and a visit to an Israeli vineyard that went disastrously wrong.

What was your favourite dish?

The beetroot-cured salmon was incredible.

Would Charlotte get on with your friends?

She’s super easy to chat with, so I’m sure she would.

Did you discover people in common?

We realised early on that we went to the same school - but not in the same year group, so we didn’t know each other in school. It was nice to reminisce about former teachers who left us both with fond memories.

Did sparks fly?

It was really easy flowing conversation with lots of warmth. To me, it felt more fireplace than fireworks.

Any no-nos?

She liked Busted, I liked Fightstar. So I don’t know if this can work.

Plans to see each other again?

Probably not romantically, but I’m always happy for new friendships.

Charlotte in three words?

Kind, intelligent, confident

What do you think Charlotte thought of you?

I shared with her my fascination with weighted blankets, so she might think I’m a sleep nerd.

Charlotte, 33, works in finance

CharlottePhoto: Gary Manhine

 

Pre-date jitters?

So many! I was very nervous and apprehensive. This was my first ever blind date.

Your first impression?

He was handsome and had a lovely smile which made me feel relaxed.

What were you hoping for from the evening?

To have a nice evening talking to someone new and see where it goes…

Did the conversation flow?

Yes, it flowed easily. We talked about all kinds of things, from what we do in our spare time to taste in music.

Did you discuss matters Jewish?

A little bit. We talked about how hard it is for Jewish people our age to meet and talk.

Did you discuss matters Israeli?

Yes. We talked about how much we both loved it there and wished we could go back very soon.

What was your favourite Kapara dish?

It was all delicious and the cocktails were amazing, but definitely the mushroom and aubergine pate.

Would Leor get on with your friends?

I’m sure he would. He’s very easy to talk to and has had so many incredible life experiences to talk about.

Did you discover people in common?

It turns out we both went to the same school and were a year apart. It was really fun to reminisce about old teachers and things we’d both forgotten until now.

Did sparks fly?

I’d like to think so! From me at least….

Any no-nos?

None at all.

Plans to see each other again?

I’d like to see each other again.

Leor in three words?

Adventurous. Chivalrous. Easygoing.