Sometimes, offering up that you’re a blogger has its benefits.
The marketing director for Bert Smith International was set up across from me at an Earth Day event in April, showing off the hybrid offerings from the auto dealer’s suite of brands: Subaru, Porsche, Volkswagen. We talked public transportation, and the hybrid Panamera.
I told her about my blog, which is when she invited me to come to their launch party for the new Macan small SUV.
SWOON.
I previewed plenty of Macan photos in the last few months, and already knew I liked it. Following the auto market doesn’t leave much surprise value when you finally see something in the flesh.
In typical Remarqed fashion, I was more interested in one of the attendee’s 2014 Porsche 911 50th Anniversary edition. It stuck out in a creamy off-white paint, brown plaid fabric interior, and 6-speed manual shift.
Wow, what I wouldn’t give to take that home. It’s not something you see everyday—not like you will with the Macan. It will be a hot seller I’m positive.
The crowd was mostly key customers and families who had some Bert Smith affiliation. I wasn’t in a festive mood until an older gay couple began chatting with me. Their status wasn’t immediately obvious, but after that lightbulb, I was delighted to imagine being in my 80s, gay, and still sprightly enough to come out past 7pm, drink, and make jokes with strangers.
As it turns out, both had been married, and have grandkids that love the other’s partner.
How progressive!
We traded stories about local gay bars. We discussed hip spots like the Birchwood Hotel. And, like any group of gays will tend to do, we judged outfits.
Suddenly, the night became more about them than the car. I was enthralled.
I mean, the car was fine too.
A little anticipation and then a big reveal. I can’t afford one, so I saw no need to clamor into a seat to press buttons and smell the fine leather.
I’d have rather sat and fired off questions to Lon and Ken, about their life, their love, and their outlook, which must be pragmatic. “One day at a time,” if you’re over 75 and still driving fast cars.
For folks I can only hope to emulate, I would assume that is the only option. It was a real pleasure to meet them, and I’m happy I allowed myself to be open to such an unexpected encounter.