A blind date at Mamma Luca in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, brought together two singles, Jeremiah P., 42, an antiques business owner, and Victoria D., 35, a financial services analyst. Their evening, filled with laughter and candid conversation, showcased the unpredictable nature of dating in today’s world.
Both participants approached the experience with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Jeremiah, who admitted to watching episodes of The Office for dating tips, was eager to make a good impression. Victoria, on the other hand, expressed frustration with dating apps, noting that many people do not take them seriously anymore.
Arriving at the restaurant at 19:45, Victoria was the first to settle in, feeling a blend of nerves and anticipation. Jeremiah described Victoria as a “pleasant surprise,” complimenting her smile and youthful appearance. He remarked, “I’d say she’s my type, but that would be an understatement; she’s probably anyone’s type.”
Victoria had different initial thoughts. She noted that Jeremiah’s choice of attire, a large Carhartt coat, felt too casual for the upscale Italian setting. “It didn’t seem like he put in a whole lot of effort,” she said.
Despite their contrasting first impressions, the two quickly moved beyond typical small talk. Jeremiah mentioned that they bypassed the usual questions about marriage and careers after attending multiple speed-dating events. Instead, they found common ground, joking about their shared inexperience with blind dates and questioning if the concept of Cupid was merely a gimmick.
Their conversation flowed easily, covering serious topics as well as lighthearted anecdotes. Both expressed a love for travel and shared experiences about places they wished to visit. Jeremiah brought up his recent venture into pottery, while Victoria revealed her passion for arts and crafts.
The pair enjoyed a range of dishes, including mozzarella sticks and Margherita pizza, followed by Jeremiah’s choice of gnocchi and Victoria’s Bolognese. “The food was great,” Victoria noted, adding that they even shared dessert.
As the evening progressed, Jeremiah felt a connection but sensed that Victoria might not share his feelings. “I didn’t get the sense that she was feeling chemistry,” he reflected. Victoria, while enjoying his company, admitted that he was not her type and remarked on his messy eating habits during dessert.
When the date concluded, Jeremiah walked Victoria to her car. He contemplated suggesting a continuation of the night but ultimately decided against it, sensing that the moment was not right. They exchanged pleasantries and said goodbye, with Jeremiah expressing a desire to see her again, even as friends.
Victoria, however, felt differently. “I don’t think we have enough in common,” she concluded.
In the end, Jeremiah rated their experience a B+, while Victoria gave it a C. This blind date serves as a reminder of the complexities and varied outcomes that can arise from modern dating experiences.
Those interested in participating in a similar blind date can apply at bostonglobe.com/cupid.
