Holly, a 42-year-old horticulturist, was paired with Graeme, a 47-year-old forest manager, for the Guardian’s Blind date column. The couple ate at the Palmerston in Edinburgh before heading out for drinks.
Graeme on Holly
What were you hoping for?
Graeme said his expectation before meeting was simply “a fun night with minimal awkwardness.”
First impressions?
He described Holly as “a very positive, engaging lady with a beautiful smile.”
What did you talk about?
The pair discussed growing food, the joys of seeds, birdwatching, what Graeme called the failings of young people when it comes to proper raving, epigenetics and breaking generational cycles.
Most awkward moment?
Graeme nominated an incident in which Holly crushed an aphid that had landed on his forehead with her thumb. He noted that the insect was not inside the restaurant but outside a different venue with hanging baskets.
Good table manners?
“Impeccable,” Graeme said of Holly.
Best thing about Holly?
Graeme said Holly was “incredibly easy to converse with” and that her assured nature and wide range of interests made her a joy to be with.
Would you introduce Holly to your friends?
“In a heartbeat,” he replied.
Describe Holly in three words.
“Nuanced, sparkling, niche.”
What do you think Holly made of you?
Graeme said he reckoned she was “hugely impressed” that he could name every species of bird she had tattooed on her leg.
Did you go on somewhere?
Yes. The couple visited a nearby pub and then a small nightclub.
If you could change one thing about the date, what would it be?
Graeme said he would tone down his oversharing.
Would you meet again?
“I’m hugely looking forward to doing so,” he said.
Holly on Graeme
What were you hoping for?
Holly said she wanted to meet someone interesting and fun.
First impressions?
She described Graeme as warm and confident, adding that he quickly made her feel at ease.
What did you talk about?
The conversation covered their mutual nerves about the evening, the joys of working outside, forestry management for biodiversity, rural living and the importance of dancing.
Most awkward moment?
Holly said she got overexcited about the menu and ordered a lot of food, noting that the extra salad was not needed.
Good table manners?
Holly rated Graeme’s table manners as excellent, saying he kept their glasses topped up and was open to sharing dishes.
Best thing about Graeme?
She said he has “a very curious mind” and is a great listener.
Would you introduce Graeme to your friends?
Holly said he would get along well with them.
What do you think Graeme made of you?
She said she hoped he thought she was easy to talk to.
Did you go on somewhere?
The couple did, seeking out music and dancing in the city, Holly said.
If you could change one thing about the date, what would it be?
“Nothing,” Holly replied, saying she had a really fun evening and describing Graeme as a lovely guy who is very easy to talk to and up for a laugh.
Would you meet again?
Holly said they live quite far apart, but added: “we’ll see.”
Blind date runs every Saturday in the Saturday magazine in the UK and online at theguardian.com, pairing two strangers for dinner and drinks. The column has run since 2009. Prospective daters must live in the UK and can apply by emailing [email protected].
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