Dora on Jago
What were you hoping for?
To meet my soulmate, of course. Failing that, a funny story to tell.
First impressions?
I was early and Jago was there already so my first impression was that he was prompt. He seemed friendly, if nervous.
What did you talk about?
So much! We both care a lot about what we do so there was work chat. Also films, music and favourite European countries. And our shared suppressed dream of doing standup comedy.
Most awkward moment?
Two desserts arrived and we both swore we’d ordered the chocolate semifreddo, not the dessert wine and biscotti. We politely shared both.
Good table manners?
Yes, definitely. We both ordered pasta (not the most graceful thing to eat on a date) but I felt very at ease.
Best thing about Jago?
He can hold an interesting conversation which isn’t just about himself.
Would you introduce Jago to your friends?
They would definitely get along – and be weirded out by how similar we are.
Describe Jago in three words.
Smart, sweet, funny.
What do you think Jago made of you?
Hopefully that I was interesting, and not a terrible person for giving up my vegetarianism.
Did you go on somewhere?
To a very nice pub for a pint.
Q&A
Fancy a blind date?
Show
Blind date is Saturday’s dating column: every week, two
strangers are paired up for dinner and drinks, and then spill the beans
to us, answering a set of questions. This runs, with a photograph we
take of each dater before the date, in Saturday magazine (in the
UK) and online at theguardian.com every Saturday. It’s been running since 2009 – you can read all about how we put it together here.
What questions will I be asked?
We
ask about age, location, occupation, hobbies, interests and the type of
person you are looking to meet. If you do not think these questions
cover everything you would like to know, tell us what’s on your mind.
Can I choose who I match with?
No,
it’s a blind date! But we do ask you a bit about your interests,
preferences, etc – the more you tell us, the better the match is likely
to be.
Can I pick the photograph?
No, but don’t worry: we’ll choose the nicest ones.
What personal details will appear?
Your first name, job and age.
How should I answer?
Honestly
but respectfully. Be mindful of how it will read to your date, and that
Blind date reaches a large audience, in print and online.
Will I see the other person’s answers?
No. We may edit yours and theirs for a range of reasons, including length, and we may ask you for more details.
Will you find me The One?
We’ll try! Marriage! Babies!
Can I do it in my home town?
Only if it’s in the UK. Many of our applicants live in London, but we would love to hear from people living elsewhere.
How to apply
Email [email protected]
And … did you kiss?
No.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
Maybe more of a romantic spark but we definitely connected so I’m not ruling anything out.
Marks out of 10?
8.
Would you meet again?
We’ve exchanged numbers and a second date is in the works.
after newsletter promotion
Jago on Dora
What were you hoping for?
A pleasant evening involving interesting conversation.
First impressions?
I was shocked to see how much we had in common, and her fantastic smile.
What did you talk about?
Everything from art and English comedy to the Labour party.
Most awkward moment?
Me not remembering any of the bands playing at the festival I’m going to in the summer.
Good table manners?
Yes, she handled herself very well, whereas I spilt ice-cream on the table.
Best thing about Dora?
Her passion for east London.
Would you introduce Dora to your friends?
Certainly, though she may want to keep her opinions on The Office to herself.
Describe Dora in three words.
Intriguing, funny, beautiful.
What do you think Dora made of you?
I’m not entirely sure. Probably vaguely shocked to find someone as passionate about English brutalism as she is.
Did you go on somewhere?
Yes, a lively pub for chat about French cinema, Edward Hopper and family.
And … did you kiss?
No. But I felt we could have.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
I’d have ordered a coconut margarita, not the cherry pomegranate mojito.
Marks out of 10?
10.
Would you meet again?
Yes, we are discussing which French film we should go and see together.
Jago and Dora ate at Ida, London W1. Fancy a blind date? Email [email protected]
