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Lovebirds and optimists, unite: Here’s a TOMS story with a ton of charm sent to us by our friends at Val Surf in Woodland Hills, California. They received this sweet story from Nick, a local TOMS customer and fan…

My sister bought me a pair of TOMS Shoes last September for my birthday, and with the gift, gave me insight into the giving side and how TOMS works. Without thinking too much of it, I started wearing my new, comfortable shoes.

One day later that month, I was hanging out at a friend’s apartment on the community balcony when a group of ladies walked by. Though the group didn’t seem crazily eager to chat, one of the girls stopped to say, “I like your TOMS.”

At first I didn’t really know what she was talking about, but once it kicked in that she was complimenting my shoes, I thanked her, and she pointed out that she was wearing a pair of TOMS, too.

From there, the girl, whose name, I learned, was Elizabeth, and I continued on with a conversation that led us to discover we had almost nothing in common, but for whatever reason, got along remarkably well. We only hung out for about an hour that day, but she gave me her phone number, and a few days later we had our first date.

It’s been about five months now; Elizabeth and I are still together. I’m writing this, a brand new, boxed pair of TOMS is sitting on the desk next to me; her Valentine’s Day gift. I figure what better way to show how much I care about her than with a gift representing how we first met.

You never know what circumstances will align that bring you together with the person you love. Often, it’s just luck. On that day, had I not been wearing the pair of TOMS my sister gave me, Elizabeth and I may have never struck up the conversation that’s now evolved into a fulfilling and happy relationship.


What’s your TOMS story? Sappy or adventurous, in giving and in living day to day, your stories are what makes this One for One concept into a movement. We’re excited to hear from you via the TOMS Community Wall!