‘He bought me a teddy that said “I love ya”. I was a bit surprised’: Find out if it’s a match for Kerry and Salim on this week’s Blind Date

KERRY, 36

Dancer and actor 

Dating Past?

I’ve been single for seven years after two five-year relationships. I tried online dating but I’m more of a ‘let the universe do its thing’ person and much prefer meeting someone in the cold light of day and knowing if there is a vibe.

Pre-Date Nerves?

Not really. I like to approach dates with a mindset of being myself and having fun. I want someone to like me for who I am, so there’s no point in getting worked up.

First Impressions?

salim had made an effort and was dressed in a smart suit, but I could see immediately he wasn’t my type. I don’t have a physical type per se, but he seemed very reserved. He stayed sitting down when I got to the table, which made it a bit awkward as we didn’t shake hands. I just said hello and sat down.

Easy To Talk To?

We are very different people. Salim is quiet while I’m a chatty extrovert — I felt like I was making the conversation for the most part. We simply didn’t have the same energy and, apart from a couple of movies we both liked, we had little in common.

Perhaps he was nervous and takes a while to come out of his shell. Salim seems like a nice guy and I’m a firm believer that there is someone out there for everyone, but we were just mismatched.

Embarrassing Moments?

Not really, but the conversation did go quiet while we ate our food.

Kerry has had two five-year relationships but has been single for seven years

Did Sparks Fly?

No. I can be flirty if I really like someone but there was nothing at all between us. Salim offered me his number, which I took, but I know he’s not for me. After the meal, he gave me a sweet little teddy which said ‘I love ya’ and some chocolates. The teddy did take me by surprise as it’s not something I’ve ever received the first time I’ve met someone. But who doesn’t love chocolates? Things ended with a cheery goodbye.

Would you like to meet again?

No, I don’t see any point as we weren’t a match. But I very much wish him well.

What do you think he thought of you?

He would probably think that I am a chatty person with a positive mindset.

Would your family and friends like him?

They’d know Salim wouldn’t be for me but I hope he finds the woman of his dreams soon.

SALIM, 37 

Retail sales assistant

Dating Past?

I’ve been single for ever. I’ve never had a proper relationship and never met anyone either at uni, at work or even through my local mosque who wants to go out with me. I don’t do online dating as I would rather meet people naturally.

Pre-Date Nerves?

Not really, as I just wanted to go and enjoy myself. I usually wear jeans but for a date I wanted to dress up so chose a smart blue suit.

Salim, 37, is looking for someone nice and respectful; and a partner who feels like a best friend

First Impressions?

I thought Kerry was gorgeous as she walked in. She has a fine figure and a nice sense of style — she was wearing a lovely dress. I didn’t initially feel anything special, but I believe romance comes partly when two personalities connect, so I wanted to see how we got on.

Easy To Talk To?

I was interested in her career as a dancer, and would love to see her perform some time. We chatted about music, too. Kerry prefers R&B, jazz and rap, while I prefer rock music.

We didn’t have too much in common, even in terms of the TV shows we watch. I love DC and Marvel spin-offs, and that’s not really her thing. We chatted about family and she was surprised I had five sisters. Sadly, they’re all too busy with their lives to help me on the romantic front.

Embarrassing Moments?

None, thankfully.

Did Sparks Fly?

It was more like friendship. I didn’t think she was flirting with me and it’s not my style to flirt either, so unless we keep in touch to see if something develops, there’s no romance. As we left, I gave her a gift bag with a teddy bear and some chocolates in it, so I might stand out and she’ll remember me. She seemed to like it.

Salim says he has been single forever but doesn’t use dating apps as he would prefer to meet someone naturally

Would you like to meet again?

Yes, it would be nice to see if something could develop. I’d love to be invited to one of her dance shows.

What do you think she thought of you?

I don’t think I impressed her. I gave her the gifts and my number, but I haven’t heard from her.

Would your family and friends like her?

Yes, my sisters love to talk, so they’d get on well with her!

KERRY’S VERDICT: 4/10

LIKED? He looked smart

REGRETS? Only that we didn’t match.

COFFEE OR CAB? Cab.

SALIM’S VERDICT: 8/10

LIKED? Hearing about her dancing.

REGRETS? None.

COFFEE OR CAB? Coffee.