A photo session could have been a total disaster, but Chris, a Starbucks employee, saved the day because of his kindness. Kindness is now about doing noticeable big acts, but the smallest gestures count and matter. Sydney was a high school senior who soon had to go through a major surgery. Because of her inability to walk, all these years, she had to use a wheelchair, and so, to capture her journey. As a source of appreciation, Jessica wanted to take pictures of Sydney so she could always hold her memories close.
Rescheduling the shoot was not an option, but heavy rainfall took over on the day it was planned.
It was upsetting as everyone was equally excited for the photoshoot, so they could not let it go so easily. This was when Sydney’s mother pitched a great idea, i.e., to choose Starbucks for the shoot. Not sure whether they would agree, they decided to try. So, Laura Princip Johansee, Sydney’s mother, rushed inside the store to request a barista. She first made it clear that it was okay if they refused to let it happen, but then she continued to explain the situation of how her daughter was in a wheelchair, and it’s pouring fast outside. Everyone would be grateful if they let her take pictures of her senior year inside the shop.
Surprisingly, she was overjoyed to hear they had no problem. Chris immediately said yes and even offered the mother his umbrella. The barista went outside with Sydney’s mother to assist her. Not just this, they were also provided a dry towel once they were back in.
The treatment they received was unexpected. Before the pictures were taken, the staff brought them hot chocolate. It was specially made with soy milk to avoid any allergies. Moreover, when one of the family members ordered food, they did not even accept the payment. Chris returned to check if they needed anything and even offered help when the furniture was shifted for the pictures. Seeing the acts of kindness, a kind customer sitting nearby offered to take photos with Laura’s phone.
What happened next was even more special. Chris came with beautifully made, colourful signs to add a pop of colour to the background where the pictures had to be taken. With great effort, the signs and backdrop were made using markers and paper. The team let them stay inside the shop for over an hour and fully accommodated them, even when outfit changes were required. They had complete access to everything. Even when they were done with the pictures, Chris did not let them make a payment for the coffee.
The day was beautiful for Sydney as she saw that kind people still existed. One that turns an ordinary day and challenging moments into red carpet moments. Jessica shared a post on her social media platforms to thank Starbucks for the kindness and appreciated their gesture by posting pictures. She mentioned how Chris could have made their day a hundred percent better just by saying yes to the photoshoot, but because of his kind soul, he went an extra mile. He should be awarded the title of being a wonderful human for sure!
