Blind Date: Thomas and Erin both love fitness. But are they a fit for each other?
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Photo: Courtesy of Erin Bartley
We're back with another installment of our Blind Date series.
- This time, we paired Thomas and Erin.
- Ready to meet your match this year? Click here to apply for an upcoming date, and tell your single friends to apply. It's super easy!
Editor's note: Responses have been edited lightly for length and clarity.
First, let’s get to know Thomas:
- He’s 27 and a software engineer.
- His ideal day in Charlotte: A morning workout, a lunchtime hike, dinner in South End and an evening rave.
- When asked to describe himself, Thomas said he’s been compared to a golden retriever. (In the dating world, a golden retriever boyfriend is someone with an easygoing, “just happy to be here” persona — essentially the dog breed in human form).
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Now, let's meet Erin.
She’s 29 and works in HR.
Her ideal day in Charlotte: Sunny weather, a morning workout and “snacks and bevs outdoors with friends.”
Her hobbies include yoga, weightlifting, reading, food and cooking.
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With a shared appreciation for fitness and the outdoors, Thomas and Erin seemed like a potential match. So, we tested their connection over wine and spam musubi at HEX in Camp North End.
- I chatted with Thomas and Erin separately a few days after their date to hear how it went.
How do you typically meet your dates?
Thomas: Typically through dating apps, out at bars or through hobbies.
Erin: I don’t! I have been pretty busy recently, and dating has been very low on my list of priorities. I have a dating app, but I don’t use it.
How would you describe your conversation?
Thomas: It was enjoyable. We had a good amount of similar experiences and interests to talk about.
- It was playful at points and serious at others.
Erin: Super fun! Very easy and we had a ton to talk about.
How would you describe your chemistry?
Thomas: We had good conversations and it didn’t feel awkward. It’ll be interesting to see if the chemistry grows.
Erin: Not so sure we have immediate sparks, but I don’t know if that’s always the precursor to success.
What are your thoughts on the date overall?
Thomas: It was a fun and relaxed first date.
Erin: I had a really good time. I think Thomas and I are pretty different in our nature, but we found that we do have a lot in common and we definitely connected on those things.
Editor’s note: I texted Erin and asked if she thought Thomas had golden retriever energy. Her response: “He seems more interesting than most of the guys who claim themselves to be golden retrievers lol.”
What’s next? How did you leave it?
Thomas: I got her number. We were both interested in a second date, so I’m planning one for after the holidays.
Erin: I’d go out with Thomas again. He’s intelligent, and seems like he has a really good head on his shoulders.
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