Love in the Air: Romance Blossoms at The Museum of Gloucester!
This Valentine's Day, we embark on a journey into the enchanting love stories of two couples who discovered romance within the hallowed halls of the Museum of Gloucester: Nigel & Claire and Paul & Hazel. Their tales are woven with serendipitous chance encounters and shared passions, reminding us of the transformative power of love amidst the treasures of the museum. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of their relationships, illuminated by the warmth of Valentine's Day and the timeless allure of love.
Nigel and Claire's journey into love began in April 1997. Little did they know, their paths had crossed before, with Claire having previously worked at the City Museum. It was a moment of serendipity, as Nigel recalls, "This was just one example of our lives criss-crossing many times before finally meeting. It was very much ‘love at first sight’.
Nigel and Claire taking part in the Gloucester Day parade dressed as Romans!
Nigel’s Story:
“I first met Claire in April 1997 when I was part of an interview panel for the vacant post of Museum Assistant and Claire was the final interviewee, although ironically Claire had previously worked at the City Museum, joining as a YTS trainee in 1987. This was just one example of our lives criss-crossing many times before finally meeting. It was very much ‘love at first sight’. Falling in love in a work setting can often be a tricky road to navigate and this was certainly true for the two of us. We were married in May 2000 and have enjoyed many blissful years as husband and wife and as parents to our beautiful daughter Daisy Robin. We are genuine soul mates and never happier than when together either inside or outside the Museum. Life has generated many challenges for us both inside and outside work, past and current, but our love for each other is stronger than ever.”Top of Form
Their love story shows us that amidst the artifacts and exhibits, true love can blossom, bringing joy and warmth to those who find it.
As we celebrate the love story of Nigel and Claire, let's now shift our focus to another enchanting tale unfolding within these walls—the adventures of Paul and Hazel.
Hazel and Paul's journey to love began in the halls of their workplace in September 2022 and they bonded over a shared interest in photography. During a visit to The Museum of Gloucester for a photography exhibition in April 2023 their relationship took a romantic turn:
(Hazel) “Photography being one of those interests, Paul mentioned to me in April 2023 that a photography exhibition was being held at Gloucester Museum and invited me to go with him. We then walked around the photo gallery and then around the museum itself, it was our first day out together, we then decided to get a coffee and a cake before parting ways”.
As they enjoyed coffee in our café, Paul mustered the courage to express his feelings for Hazel:
(Paul) “I boldly mentioned to Hazel how I felt about her, it went with mixed feelings. It was another month later we went on another date and at the end of May on my birthday, a 3rd date. That was it! From then on, we have been inseparable.”
Their connection deepened with subsequent dates, leading to a love that now flourishes beyond the museum's walls.
Hazel and Paul are inseparable!
(Paul) “My life has changed, and we are looking forward to a very happy future doing so much together. I love you, Hazel!”
These tales of love discovered amidst the treasures of The Museum of Gloucester remind us that love can pop up in the most unexpected places! Whether it's a chance meeting or a shared passion, love always has a way of adding a little extra magic to life. Here's to Nigel & Claire, Paul & Hazel, and to all the lovebirds who might stumble upon their own romantic adventure among the artifacts and exhibits of this beloved museum.
Happy Valentine's Day!