Blind Date: Danielle and Brandon have nearly a decade between them. Will their date prove age is just a number?

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Editor's note: Responses have been edited lightly for length and clarity.

First, let's get to know Danielle:

• She's 33 and a speech pathologist.
• Her hobbies and interests include reading, bowling, wineries, greenways, trying new restaurants and live music.
• Her perfect Charlotte day has to involve "walking to a cafe for a matcha or going to brunch. Then, spending the day at Veronét for a wine tasting.
• She describes herself as "an extroverted introvert who is genuine, thoughtful and adventurous."

Now, let's meet Brandon.

• He's 25 and works in education.
• His hobbies include hiking, playing guitar and writing.
• On his perfect day in Charlotte, he'd "go for a hike, check out a brewery, and find a spot for some live music."
• He describes himself as thoughtful, a good listener, and with a quirky sense of humor.

Here's how the date went, according to each of them:

How do you typically meet your dates?

Danielle: I would love to say I meet everyone organically like they do in the rom-coms, but that has not been the case.

• I typically meet people through dating apps.

Brandon: Typically through mutual connections or dating apps.

• This was the first time I've met someone on a blind date.

How would you describe your conversation?

Danielle: The conversation flowed nicely! I don't remember there being any awkward silences.

• If there were, I'm sure I filled them. He was very easy to talk to!

Brandon: The conversation hit a lot of different topics. Danielle asked a lot of good questions, which I appreciated.

How would you describe your chemistry?

Danielle: Gosh, that's tough. I would say that's pretty hard to gauge off of one meeting.

Brandon: Danielle picked the wagyu tartare as the first dish we'd share, and since I'd never tried raw beef, I was a bit hesitant, but I was glad that she pushed me out of my comfort zone.

• The chemistry was much the same — nerves at first, followed by what I found to be a great experience. I thought we got along well.

Did you feel that your age gap made any difference?

Danielle: Honestly, not really. I was most concerned about the age difference going into it, but if I hadn't known his age, I probably would've guessed he was older.

• He is definitely an old soul, which helped to close the gap.

Brandon: Yes, but not in a bad way. It was something to talk about.

• I don't think either of us would have necessarily sought out the age difference, but as the night and conversation continued, the connection became what mattered.

What are your thoughts on the date overall?

Danielle: I'd say the date went well. I think we both had a nice time!

• A first date is meant to be fun, and I think we accomplished that.

Brandon: I thought the date went very well!

• It was fun and interesting talking with Danielle, the food was amazing, and the restaurant had the perfect vibes for a first date.

What's next? How did you leave it?

Danielle: We did exchange numbers, so we will see.

• Regardless of what's to come, it was definitely a memorable experience to share.

Brandon: We exchanged numbers afterward and both said we want to see each other again.

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