How It All Began
Gina and Zac’s first date was on May 12, 2016. They met for wine on the outdoor lounge of Lagniappe in Miami, Florida where Zac arrived five minutes late or—as he likes to say—it ended up being just on time! During that period of life, Gina was actively transitioning from business consulting to a more fulfilling career. Zac was finishing his Master’s degree in Sport Psychology at Barry University. That night, on the outdoor patio lounge, Zac felt he had met an angel.
It’s amazing how pivotal moments can lead to extraordinary connections, but it is even more incredible how fate works its magic. Let’s rewind a year before that fateful first date:
Gina was on the fence about going out to Brickell with her friend Rob. He was persistent, and eventually, she agreed. That same night, Zac was hitting the town with his classmate Rob from Norway. Rob had one mission: Zac needed to talk to some ladies and make some friends.
Between Blue Martini and Fado, Zac was soaking in the music and the atmosphere. As he finished a drink outside of Fado, his attention was caught by a conversation with one of Gina’s friends. From a distance, Gina overheard Zac mention that he was from Indiana, which instantly piqued her interest. She jumped into the conversation, eager to chat about his home state.
This was a first for Zac—someone actually showing interest in Indiana! He learned about Mona Faith, Gina’s beloved dog who had a rare form of cancer. The best specialist for Mona was at Purdue University in Indiana, and Gina credited that amazing veterinarian for saving her dog’s life. From that connection, Zac spent the evening dancing with Gina’s group at Blackbird Ordinary and beyond. He even added most of them on Facebook. The next day, Zac sent Gina a message asking if she would like to grab a drink sometime. She politely declined as she was in a relationship at the time, and they continued on their individual paths in life.
Fast forward ten months to just before their first date at Lagniappe: Gina messaged Zac on Facebook, wondering if that drink offer still stood. Zac, reading the message in his memorable Miami apartment, shouted to himself with excitement and replied, "Of course!"
Rob, Zac’s classmate suggested Lagniappe for their date, and it turned out to be magical. Zac will never forget the moment he felt Gina’s scar on her knee, the way her denim and sunglasses complemented her, and how she made him feel truly alive. After a couple of glasses of dry Riesling, it was time for Gina to head home in order catch an early flight out in the morning. Despite her plans, she stayed longer than expected.
As Gina drove Zac to his car, he leaned in for a hug and playfully asked, “Is this a good kissing car?” She teasingly replied, “You’ll have to find out next time.”
Zac thought he might never see that angel again, but that night on the patio left him happier and more excited about life than he had been in a long time. He had finally met the girl he had only seen in his dreams.
And the rest is history
Thank you all for being a special part of our past, current, and future
With Love - The Future Paoletti’s
“I think I just went on a date with an angel.”
— Zac
“You’re from Indiana?!”
— Gina
Zac and Gina met at the one place the never thought they would meet the love of their lives!
A Bar.