Royal Bodyguard Saves Chance Encounter from Becoming a Missed Connection
The unexpected moment that changed the course of two lives unfolded at the iconic Tower of London in September 1994. Carrin Schottler, an American student visiting London, found herself captivated by a handsome stranger during a historical tour. Little did she know, this chance encounter would blossom into a meaningful relationship.
Chance Encounter at the Tower of London
Carrin, originally from New York, was in London for a semester studying abroad. On September 30, 1994, she joined a tour group at the Tower of London, a historic fortress that has stood since 1066. Surrounded by the grandeur of white stone towers and the famed Yeoman Warders, also known as “Beefeaters,” her attention was diverted to a fellow tour member.
“There was one guy in the group I couldn’t take my eyes off,” Carrin recalled. This mysterious man, Paul Thal, was a 23-year-old exchange student from Sweden, visiting London for a weekend excursion. Wearing a white shirt, a stylish blazer, and dress pants, he immediately caught Carrin’s attention. Despite her focus on the tour’s rich history, thoughts of the stranger overshadowed her interest in the past.
An Unexpected Connection
- Names: Carrin Schottler, Paul Thal
- Event: Chance meeting during a Tower of London tour
- Date: September 30, 1994
- Location: Tower of London, London, England
As the tour progressed, Carrin and Paul exchanged glances, igniting a connection that was hard to ignore. With encouragement from Carrin’s friend Heather, who sensed the chemistry, the two began talking. Their conversation flowed naturally, as they shared stories about their lives and backgrounds.
The Role of the Beefeaters
Amid their budding romance, the Yeoman Warders played an unexpected role as matchmakers. As Carrin and Paul posed for photos with the Beefeaters, they noticed the guards charmingly commenting on their connection. “What a nicely dressed man he is,” one Beefeater remarked, further fueling their attraction.
Encouraged by this playful musing, Carrin seized the moment and invited Paul to explore London together. “It was one of those moments where you have to do something,” she said. “I was normally shy, but I couldn’t let this opportunity go.” Paul’s enthusiastic agreement marked the start of their adventure.
An Evening to Remember
That evening, they met again near Piccadilly Circus, where Paul surprised Carrin with flowers. Over cups of coffee at a local café, their connection deepened as they shared laughter and stories well into the night.
A Blossoming Romance
Throughout their weekend together, they explored London, visiting iconic landmarks and creating lasting memories. Their bond strengthened, culminating in sweet moments like their first kiss near Buckingham Palace.
As they parted ways at Euston Station, they exchanged addresses, promising to keep in touch. “We vowed to meet each weekend, either in Manchester, London, or somewhere new,” Carrin reflected. What began as a fleeting encounter had blossomed into a heartfelt connection.
Enduring Love Across Oceans
Over the next few years, Carrin and Paul navigated the challenges of a long-distance relationship, exchanging cassette tapes filled with messages. Despite the distance, their love grew stronger, leading to trips and heartfelt reunions.
In summer 1996, surrounded by breathtaking Norwegian scenery, they decided to take the next step in their relationship. They exchanged rings, officially committing to each other amidst the beauty of nature.
Finally Together
In October 1996, Paul moved to the U.S. to be with Carrin. They eventually married in July 1998 in New York, incorporating elements of their story into the celebration. Today, they reside in Albany, New York, where they raise their 16-year-old son.
Carrin and Paul continue to reminisce about their chance encounter at the Tower of London and the Beefeaters who unknowingly played a crucial role in their love story. “They changed our lives,” Carrin said, reflecting on the unexpected matchmaking that started it all.
A Legacy of Love
Years later, the couple returned to London with their son to revisit the sights of their early romance. Though they did not return to the Tower on that trip, Carrin and Paul often think fondly of that day in 1994, which set the stage for an enduring love story.
As they reflect on their journey, they agree that their connection was nothing short of magical. It all began with a chance encounter at the Tower of London, where a royal bodyguard and a beautiful moment created a love story that has endured the test of time.
