Carter, a 35-year-old esthetician, had embarked on a solo “Eat, Pray, Love-style” journey across Europe following a breakup earlier in the summer. Inspired by an episode of “The Bachelor” filmed in Vienna, she adjusted her dating app settings and came across Max’s profile. Max, a 31-year-old comedian navigating post-pandemic life in Vienna, was instantly captivated by Carter’s profile and swiped right without hesitation.
In a modern-day tale of romance transcending borders, Carter Leathers from Sacramento, California, and Max Ratzenböck from Vienna, Austria, found each other through the swipe of a finger on the dating app Bumble. Their story unfolded against the picturesque backdrop of Florence, Italy, where they met for the first time in late August 2022.
Their initial online connection quickly blossomed into meaningful conversations filled with anticipation and excitement. When Carter’s European adventure brought her to Florence, the stage was set for their serendipitous meeting. Amidst the tranquil ambiance of a boutique hotel terrace, overlooking a courtyard dotted with aperitivo-hour drinkers, Carter and Max laid eyes on each other for the first time.
Their chemistry was palpable as they shared smiles and stories over Negronis, instantly confirming Carter’s hopeful thoughts: “Okay, yeah. This is going to work.”
Reflecting on their journey, Max reminisced about the moment he first saw Carter’s profile, describing her as a “gorgeous-looking lady” who seemed almost too good to be true. Carter, accustomed to disbelief over her authenticity on dating apps, was delighted by Max’s immediate interest.
Their encounter in Florence marked the beginning of a new chapter for Carter and Max, filled with laughter, exploration, and the promise of love across continents. As they continue to nurture their connection, their story serves as a reminder of the unexpected joys that can unfold when two hearts meet in the digital age.
For Carter and Max, Florence became not just a destination on a map, but a place where fate intervened, bringing together two souls in a moment that would change their lives forever.
