Meeting a Legend: Bill Cunningham

I’ve been a bit hush on my recent trip to New York City (it’s still strange to say trip vs. going home, but more on that later). The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade has always been something of a mythical event. You see it referenced in pop culture. You think that you’ll visit every year that you live in New York, but are hit with the reality of it being at 9am after a night that is notorious for everyone in New York going out. But when you commit to watching it in good company, you commit and you just make it happen.

Thanks to my incredible friend (yes, I’m raving) Bernice, I sidled my way into a viewing party with guest of honor Bill Cunningham. I’ve always been a huge fan of not only his work, but his words, as I’ve watched Bill Cunningham New York repeatedly when I’m in need of reassurance that I’m on the right path.

“Money is the Cheapest Thing. If you don’t take it, they can’t tell you what to do.”

A simple man with many joys in his life, he’s known as the cycling wonder that snaps beautiful portraits and street fashion, all in a simple blue jacket. He shakes your hand with pleasant confidence, and is more humble and hospitable than most journalists or photographers in the industry. It’s warm and it’s enlightening.

Amidst the bone chilling wind on the rooftop of a Central Park South apartment complex, one look into the sea of people milling the streets and parade-facing balconies has you feeling in good company. Huge floats and balloons entertained onlookers, as they moved at snails pace, yearning for a photo opportunity.

Happy start-of-the-holidays, friends. May your spirits be bright!

Special thanks again to Bernice and John 😉