For Florence, 25, a political science master’s student, and Joe, 28 (eventually confirmed), a civil servant, this NY Times blind date was a meeting of minds, full of warmth, wit, and just enough awkwardness to be endearing.
Florence on Joe: “He even brought a spare tie”
Florence arrived expecting “at least a story,” and she got one – involving trade unions, grape fermentation, and an impressively dressed man who came armed with spare accessories. She described Joe as “warm, engaging and intelligent,” and admired his knowledge on virtually everything, even if he temporarily forgot his own age (which she didn’t let slide).
The only real regret? A liqueur coffee that kept her up late spiraling over possible conversational faux pas. Still, she gave the night a 7 as a date, 9 as an evening. The romantic spark? "Maybe not." But the conversation was fire.
Joe on Florence: “Top. Class. Lass.”
Joe had high hopes for a “sophisticated rendezvous,” and Florence exceeded expectations. He described her as “very pretty, polite and open – pure class”, and was clearly taken with her brains, beauty, and insights into nuclear annihilation (how many first dates go there?). Despite the momentary age-flub, Joe was riding high on vibes, calling it a textbook successful date and awarding a confident 10/10.
The kiss? A gentle cheek kiss at the station, right before he bounded away like a rom-com character catching his train.
Verdict: Plenty of intellect, a pinch of flirtation, not quite a love match
They clearly liked each other, with Florence appreciating Joe’s brainy charm and Joe openly dazzled by Florence’s class and charisma. But they both hinted that geography and a lack of romantic spark may put the brakes on a future pairing.
Prediction: Probably not star-crossed lovers, but mutual respect and fond memories all around. One for the “good story” files – and possibly the group chat.
