My love story with Carina is one for the ages, a tale of two encounters separated by years but woven together by destiny. It all began at the Feathers Ball in London when I was just 14 years old.
A First Meeting at 14
I was living in London with my mum at the time, and my friend Sasha Sykes, who had been at school with Carina, decided to play matchmaker. She introduced us, and there she was – a stunning girl in a red dress. I was instantly smitten. We began dating, and it was a beautiful, whirlwind romance for a young boy. But, as with many young love stories, it eventually came to an end.
Years Apart, Yet Connected
We kept bumping into each other over the years, always remaining friends. Life took us on different paths, with other relationships and experiences. But the spark never truly faded. Years later, at my sister Henny’s birthday party at my grandmother’s house, fate intervened once again.
Rekindled Love at a Birthday Party
I hadn’t seen Carina in ages, so I asked Henny to invite her. She almost didn’t come, but thankfully she did. Seeing her across the room, I felt that familiar connection. Our conversation flowed easily, and we realized we shared the same values and sense of humor. We just clicked.
The next morning, Henny woke me up and asked what was wrong. I admitted I couldn’t stop thinking about Carina. In a moment of playful encouragement, Henny took my phone and dialed her number, handing it to me. Under the guise of discussing business – we both worked in the renewable energy sector at the time – I managed to arrange a date.
A Second Chance at Love
We had a wonderful night in London, mostly filled with laughter and conversation, not much business talk! That night, 18 years ago, I knew deep down that Carina was the one. I declared my intentions right away.
She needed time to process, but I was patient. She visited me in Ireland a few times, and eventually, I proposed on a blustery day by Lough Derg during my grandmother’s birthday celebration. She said yes!
Love, Marriage, and a Lifetime of Happiness
We married within a year, rekindling a love that had been dormant for years. Looking back, I realize that I had never truly stopped loving Carina. Even when I was living in Australia in my early 20s, a friend asked me if I had ever been in love, and I knew my answer – Carina at 14.
Carina is an incredible woman. She is strong, wise, and honest, and she has made me a better man. She has been my rock through thick and thin, and I am eternally grateful for her love and support.
Carina: A Life Lesson in Trusting Your Instincts
My love story with Carina is a reminder that sometimes, fate has a way of bringing us back together. When you sense a connection, lean in. You never know what amazing things await you on the other side.
- Alex Conyngham, earl of Mount Charles, lives in Slane Castle. The Enchanted Kingdom, an immersive light and sound installation, takes place in the castle’s grounds after sunset Thursday to Sunday, from November 14, 2024 until January 2025.
- Family-friendly, fully accessible for wheelchairs/buggies/all ages and abilities, this year it raises funds for Special Hands — an activity group dedicated to improving lives of children and young adults with additional needs. The event also includes a Christmas craft and food market. More info and tickets €21.50 at enchantedkingdom.ie
Experience the magic of the Enchanted Kingdom and find your own love story.