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over the last couple of months, i’ve been in a lot of starbucks shops around the metroplex.  at first, it seems funny to hear that from me since i don’t even drink coffee (but man, do i love the green tea, strawberry fraps and hot chocolate they make… oh boy).  when i hold consultations for potential wedding clients, it’s easiest for everyone just to meet at a local starbucks – they’re typically easy to find and are a great atmosphere.  as a rule, i usually like to be there ten minutes early so that i can get a drink, find a place to sit, and get my album and paperwork all situated.

and then i people watch.

i don’t know if it’s just me or what, but it seems like everyone is a little more interesting when they’re in starbucks.  like the two students doing homework across the room.  or the blonde lady talking to the guy (using way too many hand motions to illustrate her point).  the employees behind the counter joking with each other in between customers.  or the girl from the sandwich shop that came in on her break.  all characters in unique stories, and i wonder about why they’re there or what makes them tick.  i notice special things about them and take notes of details that i usually never notice in people (in a non-creepy way, of course).  there’s usually a good diversity of people from all ends of the spectrum - and i kinda form back stories when i get bored waiting on late clients.  i never wonder all this when i’m at a grocery store or at a restaurant… for me, it seems to be a phenomenon unique to starbucks.  maybe it’s the dim lighting or trendy music.  maybe it’s because i’m sipping on a drink that costs more than my lunch did.  or maybe it’s just because it’s the one place where i’m forced to stop and observe strangers, rather than just pass them by.