Age gap

[Shootingstar1111]

I’ve recently joined hinge after 3 years of being single. Before that I was in a very toxic relationship for 9 years which took me a long time to get over..
a guy “liked” my profile and first look he looks lovely, handsome and going off his bio really funny. Then I saw his age 27!! I’m 37!
I replied saying I was flattered but the age gap feels too much.. he’s been lovely and said age is just a number etc and would love to take me out.
My profile makes it clear I’m only open to dating, I have 2 children and a full time job so a relationship is not something I want but company is, someone to go for meals with, cinema dates etc. He is the same as his long term relationship finished in December and he has a daughter so doesn’t want anymore kids either.
My friend thinks I should go and have some fun and if neither of us are looking for long term then it doesn’t matter but the age gap freaks me out and I don’t know why! If he was 10 years older than me then I wouldn’t care!
what would you do?

I don't think it is a big deal if he's 27 and you're 37 especially if you're not after a long term relationship and just looking to date casually. Your choice of course though

I agree with your friends, just go for it! I don't think a 10 year age gap is bad, why not go on a date with him and see how you feel?

27 to 37 really isn't that big a difference unlike 17 to 27 say

He’s 27 not 17!
I’d be cautious if he wasn’t already a father, but as he is, go for it!

I've always gone by half your age +7 for what is acceptable.

37 -> 18.5 -> 25.5.

You're good to go!

You are only agreeing to a date, not to shack up with him for life.

I think it's a good idea to have a lot of first dates as it gets you practice at learning the right sort of questions to ask to find red flags early on. Not every first date needs to be around trying to start a relationship.