8:57 am - February 12, 2025
A Chance Encounter in Trafalgar Square
In the summer of 1984, Cristina Farina, an 18-year-old Italian student, found herself in London, eager to spend three months improving her English. Her journey took an unexpected turn when she met a stranger on a plane. Despite the excitement of a potential new connection, Cristina was stood up by her plane crush in Trafalgar Square. Disappointed but not defeated, she noticed another intriguing figure—Matt Reineke, a 20-year-old American student, sitting between the iconic bronze lions, engrossed in "Romeo and Juliet." Their serendipitous meeting marked the beginning of a profound and lasting bond. Cristina’s boldness in approaching Matt, coupled with their instant connection, set the stage for a romance that would transcend time and distance.
Bridging Distance Through Letters
As their time together in London came to an end, Matt and Cristina shared a heartfelt goodbye. Matt, leaving for California, handed Cristina a note expressing his anguish at the thought of never seeing her again. This note became a beacon of hope for Cristina, who, despite feeling heartbroken, remained optimistic about their future. With determination, Cristina initiated a transatlantic correspondence, her letters detailing her daily life, emotions, and dreams. Though letter-writing wasn’t Matt’s forte, he reciprocated, sharing insights into his studies and views on life. Their letters, a testament to their commitment, bridged the physical gap and deepened their connection over two years. Cristina’s persistence ensured they stayed in touch, a crucial element in their enduring relationship.
Reuniting and Embracing New Horizons
In 1986, Matt’s letter revealed his plan to visit Europe, with a potential stop in Florence. Cristina’s excitement was palpable, despite her nervousness about introducing Matt to her family. When Matt arrived, her parents, though initially skeptical, soon warmed up to his charming and fun-loving nature. Their reunion was nothing short of magical, a dream-like experience that solidified their commitment. This visit led to Matt extending his stay, forgoing his trip to Greece, and spending three months in Italy. Later, Cristina visited Matt in California, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Their relationship continued to flourish as they navigated cultural differences and family expectations, their bond growing stronger with each shared experience.
Building a Life Together
Matt and Cristina’s journey took a significant turn in 1991 when Cristina faced deportation from the U.S. Their decision to marry in a small ceremony at San Francisco’s City Hall was both practical and romantic. A grand wedding followed in Italy, celebrating their union in a 13th-century Tuscan church. Their early years together were marked by adventure and resilience, including a six-month global travel spree before settling in Italy. Matt’s career shift into teaching and their eventual venture into running an American bakery in Florence showcased their adaptability and teamwork. Through it all, their relationship remained a cornerstone, a testament to their love and partnership.
Settling Down and Embracing Family Life
The couple’s decision to start a family and build a home in Tuscany brought new joys and challenges. The birth of their children, Davide and Francesca, enriched their lives, and their bilingual household reflected their blended cultures. Matt’s journey from an American banker to becoming Italy’s "bagel king" highlighted his versatility and commitment to their shared ventures. Their bakery, "Mama’s Bakery," was a labor of love, a business that demanded hard work but also provided moments of joy. Retiring in 2019 allowed them to focus on travel and family, their home in Tuscany a symbol of their enduring love and shared experiences.
Reflecting on a Life Well-Lived
Forty years after their chance meeting, Matt and Cristina’s story is one of serendipity and perseverance. Their reunion in Trafalgar Square with their children, revisiting the spot where their journey began, was an emotional reminder of their incredible path. They attribute their enduring relationship to fate, but also to their willingness to take risks and communicate openly. Matt’s reflection on life’s unpredictability and Cristina’s belief in their connection underscore the essence of their story. Their tale, spanning continents and generations, is a heartfelt reminder of love’s power to transform lives and create lasting memories.