08/06/2026
I looked across the dance floor and locked eyes with someone that would become steadfast in my life.
But let’s wind it back first….
A few years ago I photographed this beautiful destination wedding for Laura & Mike, who travelled from New York - to France, for a weekend with family and friends at a lovely Chateau.
Guests travelled mostly from the US and Mexico for this day, Laura also surprised her guests with a traditional Mariachi band who came from Paris (and were honestly one of the best I’ve seen outside of Mexico!). As always I mingled with everyone, however on this occasion I particularly hit it off with one of the brides close friends, Ayla. Ayla also happened to live in Berlin, as I do! Which in itself seemed a wild coincidence. We exchanged details before parting ways but as always, the summer and wedding season kept me out of the city and I never used that number.
Months passed and one Sunday afternoon I fancied some dancing, I decided to make my way to one of Berlins clubs. I’m happy to go alone, but I remember thinking on this occasion a friend could be nice - Ayla crossed my mind, but having never even asked her for coffee….asking her to go dancing in a somewhat chaotic environment as our first one on one seemed a bit much. So I hopped on my bike, cycled to the club, made my way in to the centre of the dance floor, and about 5 minutes into the set - who should I run into, but Ayla.
It was a moment of serendipity like no other - the ultimate meet-cute. And of course since that moment she has grown into one of my dearest friends.
We have become so accustomed to apps, but people used to meet at weddings! Not just romantically, friends, new neighbours, colleagues. It’s like a room of people who have already passed a TSA-precheck by someone that you already adore. Don’t waste them, talk to everyone, push outside your comfort zone, switch tables, chat to someone new. A best friend could be waiting.
