Virtual Date
Mike doesn’t date meat eaters – lucky I’m a vegetarian! I tried to cut my hair before the date, but it went wrong
DATING PAST?
I was married for 13 years, but our relationship broke down 18 months ago. I live on the Isle of Man, where the dating scene is quite limited, as we have a population of just 85,000. It has given me the chance to learn who I am as a single woman.
PRE-DATE NERVES?
I was a bit nervous, and treated the evening like a proper date. I set the table and got dressed up in a sparkly top and heels.
I ordered a starter, main and dessert from a local Italian restaurant, and poured a glass of wine to settle my nerves.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS?
MIKE is attractive and came across as friendly and charming, although I was a little taken aback that he was dressed casually in a t-shirt. he had set his table for the date, so I just assumed he was laid-back.
EASY TO TALK TO?
we had quite a lot in common, although there wasn’t much banter between us. I’m a vegetarian and was interested to discover Mike runs a vegan pizza business. I’d love to move towards veganism, but find some aspects of it limiting.
Mike has travelled all over the world and I’ve seen a bit of europe, so we swapped stories about our favourite places. I had a really enjoyable evening.
EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?
I DON’T think there were any.
DID SPARKS FLY?
I NORMALLY know if I fancy someone instantly and, for me, there wasn’t a spark. we did chat about how we’ve found it difficult to meet a partner.
Mike wouldn’t date a meat eater, so that limits his dating pool. for me, as soon as you go on a date with someone in our small community, everyone knows and it can be awkward. But I love living here and I know it’s good for my son.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET HIM IN PERSON?
If he came to the Isle of Man I would definitely meet up with him. he could bring some of his vegan pizzas — though it would be even better if he brought a nice friend!
WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF YOU?
I AM so new to the dating game that I still don’t feel like I can read the signs. But I think he thought I was interesting to talk to.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO TAKE HIM HOME TO YOUR FAMILY?
yes. he would get on with most of my circle, as he is easy-going.
DATING PAST?
I was married for 20 years and we split up eight years ago. since then I’ve had a few steady relationships, but I have been more or less single for the past 18 months.
I use special dating sites for vegans, as I would prefer to meet someone who shares that philosophy.
PRE-DATE NERVES?
No, although I tried to cut my hair beforehand to make a good impression and I made a mess of it. luckily, it was only noticeable at the back.
I had a lovely vegan Indian takeaway, which arrived five minutes after the date started.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS?
as SOON as lian appeared on the screen, I saw that she had a nice, smiley face and was well presented. she came across as confident, relaxed and friendly.
she is pretty and had dressed up. I couldn’t tell you what colour her top was, but I’m not observant in that way.
EASY TO TALK TO?
we’re both good talkers. I was interested to hear about the Isle of Man, as I’d love to visit it.
we talked about veganism — she said she’d have a hard time giving up cheese, but I’ve found you can always find a substitute. we were able to laugh about a few of the same things, too.
I told her about some of my past dating experiences. I once travelled to america for a date and ended up getting married!
EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?
No, THANKFULLY. after we finished eating, I moved to the sofa and we chatted for another half an hour. It felt very comfortable.
DID SPARKS FLY?
although I enjoyed her company, I didn’t feel any romantic spark. sometimes you just can’t put your finger on why. I think she felt the same way, so we were both relaxed on the date.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET HER IN PERSON?
Not in a romantic way, but if she was in town, I’d meet for a coffee.
WHAT DO YOU THINK SHE THOUGHT OF YOU?
the same, I expect.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO TAKE HER HOME TO YOUR FAMILY?
Very much so — she would get on with most people.