ANNIE, 27
Single for five months, no children.
Dating Past?
I was with someone for seven years (and engaged for three of them), but that ended two years ago. Mum would love me to meet a guy, but she prioritises me being happy. And I have a cocker spaniel, Bella, who takes up my time.
Pre-Date Nerves?
No. In my job, I meet new people all the time.
First Impressions?
Bhumik had made an effort – not all men do – and was wearing a shirt with a nice blazer. He looked smart but not too flashy, and has lovely chocolate-brown eyes and a big, friendly smile. He seemed nervous when I hugged him. But after he joked about the swivel chairs at the bar spinning out of control, he seemed to relax.
Annie (pictured), 27, has been single for five months
Easy To Talk To?
Yes. Bhumik noted I was vegan and said he was happy to join me in not eating meat. I didn’t feel like he was judging me for my diet, which a lot of men do. We bounced off one another. I’ve got a quick sense of humour and not many guys match my energy, but he did.
Embarrassing Moments?
My dog Bella is a real flirt. She’d fall for his charm
When I went to the loo, the tap was a bit over-excited so I splashed water all down my dress. I had to jokingly reassure Bhumik that I am toilet-trained.
Did Sparks Fly?
There was definitely chemistry. I’m flirtatious and Bhumik seemed relaxed, although I couldn’t tell if he was flirting back or not. We were together for six hours, and I would have stayed longer if I hadn’t had to get back to my dog.
See him again?
I’d like to see Bhumik again. I’m a slow-burner but I feel there is potential. I was the one to ask for his number and we’ve texted one another since.
Annie is looking to meet a kind, funny, adventurous man who’s not selfish, rude or lazy
What do you think he thought of you?
I hope he liked me. He did tell me I looked lovely and that he loved my dress. Apparently, the team at the photoshoot had told him I was gorgeous. I couldn’t resist asking him if it was true, and he said: ‘Massively!’ We had a hug goodbye at the station.
Would your friends and family like him?
YES. My dog Bella is a big flirt and I know she’d fall head over heels for Bhumik’s charm.
BHUMIK, 37
Single for a year, no children.
Dating Past?
I’ve only had three relationships and none of them involved us living together because, for my family, that would be the equivalent of getting engaged. My last relationship ended in April 2024 and was the closest to getting to the next romantic level.
Pre-Date Nerves?
Yes! When Annie arrived she enveloped me in a hug. I think she noticed I was nervous so I made a joke about the swivelling bar chairs, which made her laugh – so I knew we’d have a good time.
First Impressions?
Annie is delightful company. She wore a sunny yellow dress and it really suited her. She looked better than I did.
Bhumik (pictured), 37, has been single for a year
Easy To Talk To?
Yes. Annie is bright and caring. She was touched that I was happy to eat vegan, and we also covered religion. We’re agnostics and were both brought up in our parents’ religions. Annie’s background is Russian, Polish, Ukrainian and Irish, while mine is Indian. Despite all that, we had a lot of touchpoints.
Embarrassing Moments?
When Annie came back to the table from the loos, she made a quip about the enthusiastic taps and I joked: ‘I can’t take you anywhere.’ We both laughed a lot.
Did Sparks Fly?
I thought so, but on first dates I don’t look for chemistry and I don’t flirt. A first date, for me, is a get-to-know-you opportunity. But it was easy to get along with Annie.
See her again?
I hope to, yes. I messaged her after our date saying: ‘By the way, I got home safely. You can stop worrying.’ She immediately replied: ‘I was about to send out a search party.’ Our humour is very similar, which is always a good sign.
Bhumik is looking for a glass-half-full woman who is respectful and deals with others graciously
What do you think she thought of you?
She said she was nervous about asking for my number and you wouldn’t do that if you didn’t want to see someone again, would you? I’d like to think I made a good impression. The date ended with a hug – I don’t kiss on a first date. I’m not sure if that’s normal!
Would your friends and family like her?
Yes, as we’re both optimists. Annie will always leave someone feeling better about themselves.
ANNIE’S VERDICT: 9/10
Liked? I loved Bhumik’s wit.
Regrets? None that I can think of.
Coffee or cab? Coffee.
BHUMIK’S VERDICT: 10/10
Liked? Annie’s charisma.
Regrets? I didn’t have any regrets.
Coffee or cab? Coffee.
