Love stories have always captivated us, but what if the most enchanting tales are the ones unfolding right on the streets? That’s the magic behind Meet Cutes NYC, the viral sensation that’s taken TikTok and Instagram by storm. Now, the creators—Aaron Feinberg, Victor Lee, and Jeremy Bernstein—have compiled these heartfelt encounters into a book, Meet Cutes NYC, that’s as warm and hopeful as the stories it shares. But here’s where it gets intriguing: how did three friends turn random street interviews into a global phenomenon? And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the stories; it’s about the trust, authenticity, and raw human connection that make them unforgettable.
It all began in 2023 when the trio started approaching couples in New York City with a simple question: “Excuse me, are you two a couple? Would you mind telling us how you first met?” What started as a humble experiment quickly became a viral hit, with millions tuning in to hear tales of love, laughter, and serendipity. Now, their book brings these stories to life in a whole new way, complete with never-before-heard interviews, stunning photography, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into their journey.
But here’s the controversial part: Can love really be captured in a three-minute video or a few pages of a book? Some might argue that these stories are too curated, too polished to reflect real-life romance. Yet, the creators insist it’s the opposite. As Jeremy Bernstein explains, ‘We keep it light and natural. We never overthink the first question, and people surprise themselves with how much they open up.’ Aaron Feinberg adds, ‘It’s about trust. We show up with genuine curiosity, and that energy comes across.’ Victor Lee chimes in, ‘We keep the storytelling raw and honest, so the couple feels seen and the audience feels the authenticity.’
Their approach has clearly resonated. What started as a challenge—convincing strangers to share their most intimate moments—has evolved into a global movement. People now recognize them on the streets and eagerly share their stories. But the process isn’t always easy. Some days, they talk to over 100 people before finding the perfect duo. And then there’s the editing, a meticulous process that ensures each story feels fresh and relatable.
So, what’s the real impact of Meet Cutes? For Jeremy, it’s about empathy. ‘I’ve become more tuned into how many ways love can look and feel,’ he says. Victor highlights the universality of these stories: ‘Different backgrounds, different circumstances—but the emotions are so relatable.’ And for Aaron, the book is a ‘thank you’ to the couples and the community that’s grown around these stories.
But let’s spark some debate: Do these curated love stories romanticize relationships, or do they celebrate the beauty of human connection? Are they a reflection of reality, or a carefully crafted narrative? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. One thing’s for sure—whether you’re a skeptic or a romantic, Meet Cutes NYC invites you to believe in the power of love, one story at a time.
