Every week, Femail asks two singletons to report back from their blind date.
Today, Rachanaa and Daniel recount their dinner.
Read on to find out whether they had chemistry…
Rachanaa, 42
Single for eight years, no children
Dating past?
I was married for seven and a half years but we split amicably. Since then, I’ve been on dates but no relationship has materialised. On a first date, I’m happy to let the guy pay – although I will go 50:50 if asked.
Pre-date nerves?
No, I was red-carpet ready. I had my hair curled and wore a floor-length red dress. Was it too much? Of course not. Even the heavy rain on the way there couldn’t put me off my stride.
First impressions?
I was a bit surprised. Dan is bald and men without hair don’t do anything for me. He’s tall which was a plus. He wore a colourful shirt and smelled lovely. Dan complimented my outfit and said I’ve got beautiful eyes (I have).
Easy to talk to?
Yes, we mainly exchanged awful dating experiences. Dan laughed when I told him I once drove two hours to Oxford to meet a guy who turned out to be ten years older than his profile picture. I did not stick around. Dan also shared his red flag encounters. We agreed you must have an iron-clad reason for cancelling within 24 hours of a date. I told him not to give women who do that a second chance. He can afford to be picky – there aren’t many nice guys like Dan around.
Embarrassing moments?
We ordered too much food. Dan had a Sunday roast and I had a spinach curry followed by a knickerbocker glory. I ended up taking some home in a doggy bag.
Did sparks fly?
I’m afraid not. A full head of hair is important to me. I will say that Dan was very attracted to me though. He complimented me a lot, and held my gaze too. He also asked me if I wanted children and what kind of partner I’d like.
See him again?
Yes, we exchanged numbers and Dan has invited me on his radio show.
What do you think he thought of you?
Dan liked me. I went on to an exhibition at Kensington Palace and he escorted me there.
Would your family like him?
Yes, although as long as I’m happy they will welcome any guy into our world.
Dan, 42
Single for four years, no children
Dating past?
I’ve had a couple of relationships, including one 15 years ago which lasted three years. We are still friends. I’m not actively dating at the moment though; I’ve taken a sabbatical in order to focus on my wellbeing.
Pre-date nerves?
No. As a DJ, I’m used to women approaching me to chat. I’ve started going to speed dating events too. The reception I get is usually positive.
First impressions?
Wow! I could tell Rachanaa had put a lot of effort into her wardrobe. As for arriving in a ballgown? Well, I think it’s important to go on a date in clothes you feel comfortable in. Still, one should compliment a woman when she’s gone to so much effort so I told her she looked great and had beautiful eyes. I didn’t get any compliments in return though.
Easy to talk to?
Yes, Rachanaa asked all about my career. She’s a singer – she performs Bollywood versions of Western music – and asked about opportunities on my radio station. We exchanged stories about bad dates and Rachanaa had a lot of anecdotes about nightmare men. Eventually, I had to redirect the conversation to her singing career.
Embarrassing moments?
Yes, Rachanaa’s knickerbocker glory. When the waiter brought her dessert over, it was about the height of a double decker bus!
Did sparks fly?
No, there were no sparks for me. At our age, we’re too mature to think that opposites attract. Even though this was my first date in a year, I knew after 15 minutes that there would be no kisses or hugs goodbye. We agreed that we’d be better as friends.
See her again?
Yes, if I was in London again. I walked Rachanaa to an exhibition she’d booked to see after our date and we exchanged numbers. We haven’t been in touch though.
What do you think she thought of you?
That I’m a passionate guy with my heart in the right place. I think she found me intriguing – women often say I am a bit mysterious.
Would your friends like her?
Yes, they’d find her alluring. She is a very passionate talker.
Would you like us to find you a date? Are you a singleton, or is there someone you’d like to send on a blind date? Email your details and a photo to blinddate@dailymail.co.uk
