Evening Latte

I attended the beautiful wedding of a friend and teammate a few days ago. A while into the reception, I needed a little break from socializing, and I also wanted to peek at the caterer’s setup. I used to shoot weddings as co-owner of a photography business, so seeing the back-end logistics of one is always fun.

As I approached the small alley where staff members were entering and exiting the main building, one gave me a smile and asked, “Looking for something?”

“Nah, just taking a walk. But thanks.”

“Oh, there’s a path over there with a great view for pictures. Same stairs you used earlier, first right.”

I thanked them and headed that way. The path ran parallel to one side of the venue and was a little above it on the side of a hill. I could hear the general sounds of the reception, but it felt quiet. On a whim, I kept walking on the path and went through a small wooded area before turning back.

Passing above the venue again, I had to admit it was a good view. I wanted my “real” camera, but after fiddling with my phone, I got a couple that were close to what I had in mind (one is the featured image of this phone), then rejoined the reception and had a lot of fun.

Later, as everyone was exiting, I saw the caterer I’d spoken to earlier. I walked over to show them the pictures and thank for them for the recommendation. “No problem. A lot of people need a break during stuff like this, and it’s quiet up there.” I thanked them again before heading out.

That person both recognized I needed some recharge time and sort of disguised their help as a photo spot recommendation, which avoided all the potential awkwardness of a stranger asking/making expressed assumptions about my mental state.

It was a kind and thoughtful gesture that made an already fun day even better. It was also a reminder that I should always be looking for opportunities to make someone else’s day a little better.