It has been said that, without even actively looking, you might meet your significant other in the most unexpected place. And sometimes, that unexpected place is at work, or shall we say, on board a tram. As couples in Edinburgh celebrate the strength and beauty of love this Valentine’s Day, we would like to introduce you to our colleagues Michael and Emilia, whose romance has blossomed on the rails of the city’s tramway.
“It feels like we have known each other forever”
Having joined Edinburgh Trams in 2022 as a Ticketing Service Assistant, little did Emilia know she was about to set herself on the path to love. Originally from Poland, her outgoing personality helped her build friendships and camaraderie in the workplace, where she stumbled upon Tram Driver Michael, who had already been in the company for over four years.
“At some point, someone at work was planning a night out on a Facebook chat, but as it turned out, we both couldn’t make it”, said Emilia with a cheeky smile. “We ended up going on another night out, but Michael never really thought there could be something between us".
It took several attempts for Emilia to accept Michael’s invitation to go for a walk around Cramond Beach, which they now see as their first date. The sparkle then progressed into a romantic relationship, to the extent it later became official within the tram depot.
“We both knew that relationships and work don’t always go well together. However, we have successfully managed to leave our personal lives outside of the gates to focus on our duties. What happens at work, stays at work, and the same the other way around”, said Michael.
“I am going to marry my best friend”
On December 6th last year, while wandering around the Botanic Gardens, Emilia gasped in surprise when Michael popped the question. And as if he had intentionally planned it, December 6th is St Nicholas Day in Poland, highly celebrated in the country. Plans for the big day are still ongoing, with Stirling as a potential place to tie the knot.
“Valentine’s Day isn’t only in February; it is every month. So every month we have our own Valentine’s Day. If you have a partner, a lover or a friend, show them you care about them wherever you can. We always enjoy each other’s company at home with a nice meal and a glass of wine. In terms of presents, we like giving symbolic gifts to each other”, said Emilia.
When asked what he likes about her future wife, Michael simply replied:
“Her smile. And her sense of humour as well, even though it isn’t as dark as mine!”
