**From Mis-dial to Marriage: How a Wrong Number Changed Alison’s Life Forever**
For many, the search for love often involves dating apps, set-ups from friends or chance meetings at social gatherings. Yet, for Alison Cork, a 61-year-old businesswoman from London, true romance was sparked by nothing more than an accidental phone call. After enduring a difficult breakup and believing her quest for companionship to be over, Alison’s chance encounter with a stranger on the other end of a misdialled number became the beginning of an extraordinary journey.
On an unremarkable Sunday in 1996, Alison found herself attempting to ring a friend for a casual chat. What she didn’t anticipate was a man’s voice answering instead. Slightly taken aback, Alison quickly apologised, explaining she had dialled incorrectly, and intended to hang up. But the man, in a gentle and humorous tone, responded with, “No, I’m not your friend. But won’t I do?” Amused but not interested, Alison declined his playful offer and ended the call, assuming that would be the end of it.
Unexpectedly, the brief exchange lingered in Alison’s mind. She found herself pondering the stranger with the captivating wit and warm voice. At the time, Alison was in her thirties, flourishing in her career and newly single after a long-term relationship ended due to conflicting views on starting a family. Intrigued and unable to shake the memory of the conversation, she decided to call the number again—a move completely out of character for her.
Upon reconnecting, Alison discovered the man’s name was Efi Zazo. Their rapport grew as they spoke frequently over the next several weeks, sharing stories, laughter and mutual interests. Although social media didn’t exist in 1996 to provide clues about each other, Alison found herself drawn to Efi’s intelligence and charm, developing a meaningful attraction based solely on their compelling conversations.
Despite her growing curiosity, Alison’s friends were concerned, cautioning her about the potential risks of meeting a stranger. Their apprehension was understandable, but Alison felt a powerful intuition urging her to trust Efi. He suggested meeting for a coffee, and after careful consideration, Alison agreed—insisting their first encounter take place during the day in a public setting.
When the day arrived, Alison arrived feeling nervous and uncertain. Her nerves quickly dissipated when Efi greeted her at his office in Mayfair. He instantly recognised her, noting she was the only person in the area sporting jeans and a ballerina top in the middle of the day. Alison was put at ease by his warm smile and easy manner, confirming the positive impression she’d formed over the phone.
Efi, who worked in property and finance, and Alison, founder of the interiors business Alison At Home, soon discovered a deep compatibility. Not only did they share values and aspirations—particularly the desire to start a family—they also complemented each other personally and professionally. Six weeks and several dates later, Efi proposed during a lunchtime rendezvous. Though initially hesitant to commit so soon, Alison appreciated his patience and understanding, as he assured her, “Take all the time you need. I’ll be waiting.”
After much reflection and discussions with those close to her, Alison accepted Efi’s proposal. The couple married in Israel—Efi’s homeland—welcoming 300 guests to their celebration on 24 February 2000. They went on to settle in a picturesque Belgravia townhouse in London, and together raised two sons, Ethan and David.
Celebrating 25 years of marriage this year, Alison reflects on the serendipity that brought them together, marvelling that a simple wrong number could lead to a lifetime of happiness. Their enduring relationship serves as a reminder that chance and openness to new experiences can sometimes yield the most remarkable outcomes.
Their incredible story demonstrates that even in an era before modern technology, genuine human connection can flourish in the most unexpected ways, providing hope and inspiration for anyone navigating the unpredictable world of love and relationships.