Yes, it has happened to me... ONCE.  I'm from a very small town in Northeast TN.  You know, one of those places where everybody knows everybody and everything about everything.... ya, I think you got the picture.  

In my younger years, I was a Rave party freak!!!  I helped start the underground rave seen in my hometown.  There was this DJ who would spin awesome Trance and Drumb and Bass at this little place we lovingly called The Office, a venue for some of the first underground parties in that area.  He was my favorite and I had always carried a secert crush on him, but he was a DJ and I was a candy kid.  I ran into him about a year and a half ago on an outcall.... He recognized me too and at first we both felt a little uncomfortable, but then we decided, what the heck, why not do what we should've done a long time ago.... yes, he still paid for the hour, but we ended up spending the day together catching up on old times.

Awww.... for the good ol' days!!!  

Jaclyn

Not someone from a former life but I do run into providers from time to time.  I'm a drummer and fill in on occasion for local bands.  On two occasions during the last year while doing gigs I've run into providers I've visited.  It hasn't been awkward.  Both times we just smiled at each other and went about our business.  Both times they were either with a boyfriend, husband or other hobbyist.  It's not a good time to try to strike up a conversation.

Also, I once ran into a provider at Perimeter Mall.  She was alone but it's still not a good idea to run up and start conversing.  So I just acknowledge the person, smile and keep on my way.  

I think I handle the situation properly but would like to hear from the providers about how they'd like such a situation handled by a hobbyist.